Chapter 15: Paul (Great Leaders of the Book)

IN THIS CHAPTER, you will discover: 

A man who turned the world upside-down with the gospel. 

An apostle who endured great hardship yet looked to future victory. 

AS A RESULT, you will be able to: 

Share the gospel with the lost world around you.

Endure your own difficulties with strength provided by the Lord.

Reading: 'Paul,' NIDB, pp. 756-61

Scripture References

Acts 7:54-8:1 Approved stoning of Stephen.
Acts 9:1-31 Persecuted the Way; miraculously converted.
Galatians 1:11-2:10 Called as an apostle to the Gentiles.
Acts 13-14 First missionary journey.
15 Council at Jerusalem.
16:1-18:22 Second missionary journey.
18:23-21:16 Third missionary journey.
21:17-23:35 Arrested in Jerusalem; appeared before Sanhedrin.
24-26 Trials before Felix, Festus, and Agrippa.
27:1-28:10 Sent to Rome, shipwrecked, and rescued.
28:11-31 Imprisoned in Rome for two years.
2 Timothy 4:9-22 Final days of life.
 

Focus

Eager Persecutor
Acts 7:54-8:1Acts 26:9-11

Energized Convert
Acts 9:1-31Acts 22:1-21Acts 26:12-18Gal. 1:13-24

Enthusiastic Preacher
Acts 13:1-19:22

Encouraging influencer
Acts 20:17-382 Tim. 3:10-4:5

Divisions

Persecution of Christians

Salvation experience

Missionary efforts

Contributions to Christians

Topics

Stoning of Stephen
Searching for believers
Traveling to foreign cities

Struck down
Set apart
Saved

3 missionary journeys
Imprisonment
Martyrdom

Letters to churches
Sharing of faith with state rulers
Doctrine of church

Place

Jerusalem

Damascus

Roman Empire

Worldwide

Date

A.D. 10-36

A.D. 36-44

A.D. 44-67

Present

Biographical Observations
By his own admission, Paul was a Jew among Jews (Phil. 3:4-6). Born into the tribe of Benjamin in Tarsus of Cilicia, he enjoyed every advantage of a well-born Jew and a privileged Roman citizen. He spent his early life in Jerusalem studying the Law under the famous teacher Gamaliel. Zealous in his thirst for knowledge, Paul became a member of the highly educated, religiously elite Pharisees.
Since Paul's acquaintances, friends, and enemies impacted his life in such a dramatic way, various ones will be highlighted. Seeing his interactions with these people will provide valuable insights into Paul's character.
The Eager Persecutor
Stephen. As a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit's power, Stephen had performed spectacular miracles. Like Daniel, his life was so extraordinary that no one could find fault in him. But because of certain lying witnesses, Stephen was called to account for his faith. Given the opportunity, he expounded at length on the history of Israel. Everything was going well until he accused the Jews of murdering the Messiah and destroying God's laws. Suddenly the crowd erupted into a violent mob. As Stephen stood looking up into heaven, the angry Jews stoned him to death. Self-righteous Saul of Tarsus looked on, holding the coats of the murderers.
Ananias. Stephen's death merely heightened Saul's religious zeal. In his relentless persecution of Christians, he was hurrying toward Damascus on his despicable mission. Suddenly he was struck down by a blinding light. Saul listened as the Lord spoke to him. Christ directed Saul to go into the city and wait. As the new convert sat obediently praying, God gave him a vision. He saw a man named Ananias laying hands on him and healing his blindness. At the same time, God directed Ananias to go and lay hands on the former persecutor. In spite of his apprehension, Ananias obeyed and baptized Saul, who would later become the world's greatest missionary.
First Missionary Journey
Barnabas. On his first missionary journey, Paul (formerly Saul) traveled with Barnabas to Lystra. After Paul healed a crippled man, the crowd went wild, mistaking the two of them for Greek gods -- Hermes (Paul) and Zeus (Barnabas). The two missionaries, who had been telling them to turn "to the living God" (Acts 14:15), were visibly upset when their listeners attempted to sacrifice to them. But only a few days later, the crowds turned violently against them, stoning Paul and leaving him for dead.
Second Missionary Journey
Silas. While in Philippi, Paul and Silas exorcised a demon from a young slave girl. Her masters, furious over lost revenues from her fortune-telling, incited a riot. As a result, Paul and Silas were beaten unmercifully and thrown into prison. Around midnight in the midst of miserable circumstances, the two began to sing praises to God. In response He sent an earthquake that released the prisoners. The poor jailer was about to commit suicide when Paul and Silas assured him that everyone was accounted for. To the shaking jailer's question, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved'" they replied, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved -- you and your household" (Acts 16:30-31).
Philosophers. In Athens the Epicurean and Stoic philosophers invited Paul to speak in the forum at Mars Hill. After observing many statues, temples, and altars present in the city, he stood up to preach: "I see that in every way you are very religious. ...I even found an altar with this inscription: TO AN UNKNOWN GOD. Now what you worship as something unknown, I am going to proclaim to you" (Acts 17:22-23). As Paul spoke, some sneered but a few believed.
Priscilla and Aquila. In Corinth Paul lived and worked with two fellow tentmakers, Priscilla and Aquila. This devout Christian couple opened their home for prayer meetings where many were blessed. As Paul went out into the city and preached, many others were saved. The Lord encouraged Paul by saying, "Do not be afraid; keep on speaking'I have many people in this city" (Acts 18:9-10). So Paul remained, teaching for another year and a half. However, at the end of that time, militant Jews accused Paul of teaching against Roman law. Shortly thereafter, Paul left the area accompanied by Priscilla and Aquila.
Third Missionary Journey
Demetrius. As a result of Paul's teaching in Ephesus, the sale of idols decreased tremendously. Demetrius, a silversmith who made images of the Greek goddess Artemis, was especially angry over the turn of events. As he explained, "Men, you know we receive a good income from this business" (Acts 19:25). He observed that the goddess would lose her credibility and "be robbed of her divine majesty" (v. 27). The silversmiths began to shout and other Ephesians joined in -- many of them never realizing what the uproar was all about. They seized two of Paul's traveling companions with murderous intentions. Finally the city clerk quieted the crowd and warned them of the political consequences of their illegal assembly. But it was time for Paul to leave the city, so he and several followers traveled to Macedonia.
Eutychus. Anticipating his departure from Troas the next day, Paul wanted to speak as long as possible to a gathering of believers. About midnight Eutychus, who had been sitting in a window, went to sleep and fell three stories to his death. Rushing downstairs, Paul quickly raised the young man to life. " 'Don't be alarmed,' he said. 'He's alive!' " (Acts 20:10). The incident never interrupted Paul's train of thought, and he continued preaching until dawn. Later, he continued his trip toward Jerusalem by way of Tyre, Ptolemais, and Caesarea.
Called to Suffer
Ananias the High Priest. Shortly after arriving in Jerusalem, Paul was arrested. Revealing his Roman citizenship to the commander, he was given permission to speak to the crowd. Paul told of his persecution of Christians, his dramatic conversion, and his subsequent calling to the Gentiles. But when the crowd heard the hated word "Gentiles," they demanded that he be killed. Later Paul appeared before the Sanhedrin with Ananias presiding. Enraged by Paul's words, the high priest had him slapped on the mouth. Paul, unaware that he was the High Priest, called him a "whitewashed wall" (Acts 23:3). Nevertheless, Paul cunningly maneuvered the Sadducees and the Pharisees into an argument concerning resurrection. The debate became so intense that the commander was afraid that Paul would be killed. Therefore, the commander ordered Paul brought back to the barracks. Once again, God spoke to Paul, "Take courage! As you have testified about me in Jerusalem, so you must also testify in Rome" (Acts 23:11).
Felix and Festus. In Caesarea Paul was brought first before Felix, who was well aware that Christians were not prone to starting riots. But the more Paul spoke about righteousness and a final judgment, the more agitated Felix became. "That's enough for now! You may leave. When I find it convenient, I will send for you" (Acts 24:25). Felix's successor Festus left Paul in prison but urged him to go to Jerusalem for trial. Rather than face an unfair trial there, Paul, as a Roman citizen, appealed to Caesar.
Agrippa. Before Paul was sent to Rome, however, he was able to witness before King Agrippa. The king, after listening carefully to Paul, said," 'Do you think that in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian'' Paul replied, 'Short time or long --I pray God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am, except for these chains' " (Acts 26:28-29). Finally, because of his appeal to Caesar, Paul was put on a ship to Rome.
Julius. A member of the Imperial Regiment, Julius was very kind to Paul. He allowed him to talk with friends whenever they stopped at a port. Because the ship's officers did not listen to Paul's warning, the ship was wrecked after a harrowing fourteen-day storm. Afraid that the prisoners would escape, the soldiers planned to kill them. However, Julius, seeking to spare Paul, protested. He suggested that everyone try to swim ashore. Miraculously, everyone made it safely to the island of Malta.
Publius. Publius, the chief official of the island, opened his home to the shipwrecked men. As a result of his hospitality , Publius' father was healed of a terrible illness. When the islanders heard that Paul possessed the power of healing by the laying on of hands, every sick person on the island appeared at Publius' house. Everyone was healed, and Paul was lavished with gifts. Three months later, he was once again on his way to Rome.

Prisoner in Rome
When Paul finally reached Rome, many Christians traveled great distances to encourage him. He was allowed to live alone in a rented house with only one guard. Paul immediately invited the Jews in Rome to hear the gospel. As part of Paul's "captive" audience, his Roman guards also heard the word of God. For two years, "boldly and without hindrance he preached the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ' (Acts 28:31 ). During this period as a prisoner in Rome, he wrote letters to the churches at Ephesus, Philippi, Colossae, and to his friend Philemon.
After Paul's release from prison, he again traveled extensively. During this time he wrote letters to Timothy and Titus, encouraging them in their work. Arrested a second time, Paul was taken back to Rome where he wrote Timothy a second letter. The dynamic "slave" of Jesus Christ was finally beheaded by Nero around A.D. 67. Paul could rightfully boast, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith" (2 Tim. 4:7).
Paul's Influence
Apart from Jesus Christ Himself, no one person has influenced the Christian faith more than the apostle Paul. Through the sermons he preached and the churches he planted, he has indelibly left his mark on Christianity. Credited with writing thirteen New Testament books (not including Hebrews), Paul's influence through the written word is phenomenal. His subjects are all basic doctrines of the Christian faith. He speaks of the headship of Christ (Col. 1:15-20), justification by faith (Gal. 3:6-25), Christians and the state (Rom. 13:1-14), election (Rom. 9:1-29), spiritual gifts (1 Cor. 12:1-14:40), reconciliation (2 Cor. 4:1- 6:13), the family (Eph. 6:1-4), orderly worship (1 Cor. 11:2-33), the resurrection (1 Cor. 15:1-58), and countless other fundamental truths.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths: Paul's keen intellect, which bridged the Greek, Roman, and Jewish worlds of his day, made him one of the world's greatest thinkers. An uncompromising man, Paul revered the truth. He knew that his strength came from the power of the risen Christ within him. Paul was a caring man who loved people and formed deep friendships. Fearless in the face of danger, he inspired courage in those around him. Paul's one goal was to bring people to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ and then to nurture them in their faith.

Weaknesses: Physically, Paul had a thorn in his flesh, which may have been an eye ailment or a recurrence of malaria. Perhaps it was a temptation that manifested itself from time to time. But Paul, knowing that God's "power is made perfect in weakness" (2 Cor. 12:9), responded by depending even more on the Lord's strength.
Key Scripture: "Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ' (1 Cor. 11:1).
Immature Christians must have role models, and the apostle Paul was not afraid to have others pattern their lives after his. For he was completely committed to Christ and diligently followed Christ's own example. Truly great leaders are willing to be godly examples for others, whether their own children, friends, students, or fellow church members.
Key Thought: Paul, the epitome of a Christian convert, was changed completely from a murderous persecutor of Christians to a provocative preacher who totally committed himself to spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Philosophy of Life
Paul believed that the race of life is not a sprint but a marathon. To Christians everywhere he might say today: "Prepare yourself; once the race has begun, never give up. Always keep your eyes on the finish line. Your greatest cheerleader is the Holy Spirit who encourages you forward (Rom. 8:26). Continually remind yourself that your strength must come from the power of God within you (Eph. 6:10). As the enemy hurls fiery arrows from the sidelines, move ahead, knowing that a shield of faith protects you (v. 6). And while you are running, rejoice, for at the end of the race a crown of victory awaits you (1 Cor. 9:25)."
Comparison
Peter shared many similar experiences with his colleague Paul. In the book of Acts Luke carefully chronicled the activities of the two men. Whereas Peter was called to be the apostle to the Jews, Paul's call was to the Gentiles. Each testified before the church in Jerusalem regarding the Spirit's work through them. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, Peter and Paul healed the sick and even raised the dead to life. Such power emanated from Peter that people were healed when his shadow fell on them; Paul likewise healed through handkerchiefs that he had touched. Peter was miraculously released from prison by an angel, and Paul by an earthquake. But the most important similarity was their great love for and courageous dedication to Jesus Christ, their risen Savior and Lord.
The Grand Design
Paul, steeped in Jewish scripture and history, knew all the prophecies concerning the Messiah. After his conversion, he became the foremost evangelist in spreading the good news of Christ. In just thirty-seven years he helped to establish the church throughout the Roman Empire. The churches he founded and the letters he wrote to them create a magnificent and colorful design in the messianic tapestry.

Key Concepts: [All answers above]
1. Paul held the privileged position of (Roman, Jewish) citizenship.
2. ________________ was the disciple who baptized Paul.
3. True or False. In Lystra Paul and Barnabas were worshipped as Greek gods.
4. Paul found the people in (Philippi, Athens) worshiping an unknown god.
5. Paul, Priscilla, and Aquila were all ______________________ by trade.
6. Paul raised (Demetrius, Eutychus) from the dead.
7. True or False. The high priest Ananias had Paul slapped on the mouth.
8. King (Felix, Agrippa) sent Paul on to Rome to appeal to Caesar.
9. While a prisoner in Rome, Paul wrote letters to three churches as well as to his friend _______________.
10. Paul was martyred during the reign of Emperor (Claudius, Nero).

Further Study: Read "The Letters," pp. 1095-98 in the IBC; review Map 11, "Paul's Missionary Journeys," NIVTSB.
Life Application: Eric Liddell was a modern-day Paul who truly modeled the Scriptures before others. One particular passage he sought to live out is: 'Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much" (Luke 16:10). What are the little things God has entrusted you with' Household duties' A Sunday school class' A bus or prison ministry' Until you prove faithful in carrying them out, God cannot entrust you with more. As Paul wrote: "Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful" (1 Cor. 4:2). Each trust -- whether small or great in our eyes -- is important to the Lord.