PAUL THE APOSTLE ( Part 5 )
Pastor Christopher Choo,
Lesson 3104
PAUL THE APOSTLE ( Part 5 )
After his escape from Damascus, he went to introduce himself to the early church members in Jerusalem.
He wanted to meet some of the disciples of our Lord to get a firsthand account of His life and ministry.
But instead of a warm welcome, he was met with fear and even cynicism. How can a leopard change his spots overnight?
But Barnabus - the "Son of Encouragement " - stood up for Paul. He brought him before the leaders of the Jerusalem church, described his conversion experience, and testified how fearlessly he preached the gospel in Damascus.
As a result, Paul met up with the key leaders of the Jerusalem church: Peter and James, the brother of Jesus.
He gained information about the resurrection of Jesus - a fundamental principle of faith - which he would include in his theology. Both Peter and James informed him that Jesus had appeared to them, the other apostles, and to more than 500 witnesses (among believers) at one time!
Abba Father, we all need an encourager in our lives. You sent Barnabus to testify of Paul's changed character and to vouch for him as a genuine believer before others who doubted Paul's credentials. Let us not forget the power of such encouragement. For Paul will pen the theology of the resurrection that is a central tenet of our faith - thanks to Barnabus!
