Day 7 - Paul's Story

In your opinion, who is the greatest opponent of Christianity in the world today? The answer in the time of ACTS was "Saul of Tarsus," the same man we refer to today as the Apostle Paul! He was a leader at the stoning of Stephen, the first martyr for Christ. Later in life he wrote, "I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me trustworthy, appointing me to his service. Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life. Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen." (1 Timothy 1:12-17) Saul's conversion to Paul shows that no one is beyond God's reach and acceptance. It also shows the power of God to totally change a life. Paul became the greatest ambassador for Christ perhaps of all time, immediately reaching others with the power of the gospel that changed his own life.