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Point of Reference
by Fred Price
There has probably never been a more influential disciple of Christ than Paul, his legacy almost immeasurable. He established countless churches; raised up, trained and commissioned countless more church planters; is responsible for thirteen “letters” of the New Testament, thereby conceptualizing many ideals of the Christian faith. As such, he almost single-handedly set the church on its path to greatness throughout the world of the Mediterranean and beyond.
Having said all that, I think there is value in examining a time period many neglect that was undoubtedly crucial in setting the stage for Paul’s great influence among so many throughout his ministry. A time characterized by confusion even as it embodied Paul’s seeking for ultimate truth.
Shortly after Paul’s radical conversion to Christ, he was unsure – with reason – of his acceptance by the newly-established church. Although thoroughly versed in the tenets of Judaism, the root from which Christianity sprang, he lacked a detailed understanding of the basic history of his new-found faith. Thus he went “immediately” into Arabia (Galatians 1:17); listening, learning and praying – before he began his high-profile ministry – developing an understanding of the gospel that fostered his ability and confidence to preach it unequivocally.
Having no contact with the other apostles during this time and no access to a written gospel as of yet, he “wrestled” with God through the Holy Spirit to get a handle on who Christ really was and what he meant to Paul as an individual and to the world at-large. Paul assuring the Galatians, “I want you to know, brothers, that the gospel I preached is not something man made up. I did not receive it from any man, nor was I taught it; rather I received it by revelation from Jesus Christ.” Galatians 1:11,12 (An unnecessary – and possibly dangerous – exercise today, as we have the gospel message fully revealed to us through scripture.)
While there, Paul ascertained at least three spiritual truths that profoundly impacted his thinking, carrying him through thirty years of toil, suffering, and eventually martyrdom.1 (See 1 Corinthians 4:11-13) Likewise creating a sense of urgency in his life and boldness to his ministry; allowing him not only to proclaim, “I am not ashamed of the gospel,…” Romans 1:16, but “compelling” him to share it with others. (2 Corinthians 5:14)
One of the truths Paul learned was that you can’t force belief, that non-Christians won’t “get it” until after conversion; as “The man without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit… because they are spiritually discerned.” 1 Corinthians 2:14 Usually a gradual process where the eyes of our hearts are enlightened (Matthew 6:22), allowing us to more fully realize the hope to which we’ve been called (Ephesians 1:18); finding fulfillment in God’s Word and a willingness to adhere to His will.
Another insight Paul gained was that evangelism and insults go hand-in-hand. (See 1 Corinthians 16:8) Jesus himself saying, “Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth… but a sword. For I have come to turn a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law – a man’s enemies will be the members of his own household.” Matthew 10:34-36 (Certainly not the goal of Christianity but often the reality.) It being up to us to remain faithful to Christ, even in the face of opposition from family, friends etc.; hoping that they will in time come to see the value of our stand and possibly come to share it. But the reality of our situation is that if we genuinely strive to be “Christ-like” – to which we are called – some people will be unsettled, unappreciative and sometimes opposed to us. Again, not the goal, but the reality of a Christian life. (See Matthew 5:10-12)
The third truth is that even if we sometimes make people uncomfortable, their uneasiness and insults often turn to thanks in the end. (Paul being a classic example, being vehemently opposed to Christianity in it’s infancy, followed by an equally energetic promotion of Christ, his gospel and the church after his conversion.) All of which should reinforce the conviction that we Christians need to lovingly but vigorously defend the truths of scripture rather than being tolerant of untruths; teaching, training and even correcting and rebuking – doing so with gentleness and respect. (2 Timothy 3:16 & 1 Peter 3:15) The goal being not merely to force our understanding of right and wrong on others, but to introduce them to Christ who can save their souls and change their hearts and minds from the inside out.
If we fail to present people with the biblical truths about their spiritual status before God, we fail in our most basic responsibility before God. Paul rhetorically asking, “How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?” Romans 10:14 And if they don’t respond appropriately? That’s their choice. If they react belligerently? Be assured that, “God is just: He will pay back trouble to those who trouble you and give relief to you who are troubled,…” Which may not fully happen till, “... the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven… punish(ing) those who do not know God and do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus… (Consequently being) shut out from the presence of the Lord…” 2 Thessalonians 1:6-9
That’s why such importance is given to standing firm (2 Thessalonians 2:15) and fighting this battle well. (1 Timothy 1:18,19) Defending the gospel when necessary (Philippians 1:16), refuting those who actively oppose it. (Titus 1:9) Guarding what has been entrusted to our care, up to and including pointing out false doctrine and those who teach it. (1 Timothy 1:3 & 6:20) Not merely for the sake of being right but for the sake of those who are lost. Paul challenging us to, “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong. (But) Do everything in love.” 1Cor. 16:13,14Peter concurring, encouraging us to love deeply, “…because love covers over a multitude of sins.” 1 Peter 4:8 (See also James 5:20) Our attitude ostensibly becoming one with Christ’s, who “…made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant… humbl(ing) himself…” in obedience to God’s will; which is to see people saved from their sins and restored to a right relationship with God. (Philippians 2:5-8)
1From Hell is Real (But I Hate To Admit It), by Brian Jones – Cook Publishing and distributing
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Fred Price - married (50 years), father of two grown children, grandfather of six.
Fred retired earlier this year after 42 years as a factory worker. He has always had a heart for young people and the challenges they face today. Over the years Fred has taught Discipleship Groups for High School and college students.
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