MEMORY SCRIPTURE
But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb and called me through His grace.
(Galatians 1:15)
Paul’s leadership journey was shaped by diverse experiences, encounters with Christ, mentorship and commitment to spreading the Gospel to show the power of preparation and dedication in shaping impactful leaders.
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Mon. 15: Paul, Lynched For Christ’s Sake (Acts 21:27-32)
Tue. 16: Paul Embraces Suffering (Acts 22:24-28)
Wed. 17: Paul, Not Afraid Of Chains (Acts 20:20-24)
Thur. 18: Paul Experiences Snake Bite (Acts 28:3-5)
Fri. 19: Paul’s Pedigree Is Counted As Loss (Php. 3:5-8)
Sat. 20: Paul Finishes His Race By Grace (2 Tim. 4:6-8)
DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT
Leadership preparation involves both vertical (God) and horizontal (human) influences.
INTRODUCTION
TEXTUAL SOURCE: Acts 8:1-3; 9:1-30; 13:1-3; 18:5; 22:3; Galatians 1:11-18
Last week, we examined the example of two young men who declined Jesus’ mentorship. Despite having the opportunity to engage with jesus, their priorities, goals and pursuits did not align His.
This week’s lesson focuses on a man who didn’t have the privilege of meeting Jesus in person like Judas Iscariot and the rich young ruler, yet his impact remains unparalleled. The role of Apostle Paul in the New Testament and the Early Church is profound and enduring. His life and teachings continue to be relevant today. How then was he prepared for this significant assignment? Our lesson for this week provides insight into this question.
LESSON OUTLINE
- THE GOD-FACTOR
- THE HUMAN AGENTS
LESSON EXPOSITION
THE GOD-FACTOR (Acts 8:1-3;9:1-25; 13:1-3; Gal.1:11-17)
And he said, “Who are You, Lord?” Then the Lord said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for-you to kick against the goads”.
(Acts 9:5)
a) Acts 8:1,3: Paul, before his conversion, was a great threat to the Church.
b) 9:1-9: Meeting Jesus on Paul’s journey to Damascus was a life-changing experience (cf. Gal. 1:15), showing that true leadership requires a connection with the Lord and the transformative power of encountering the divine light and seeking communion with God.
c) vv. 1ff: The encounter transformed him and led to his divine commissioning for the ministry, marking the beginning of his leadership journey.
d) 6,11-12,18: Paul’s experiences of prayer and baptism show the import of spiritual practices in leadership preparation. Divine
intervention and obedience are a must in leadership journey.
e) vv. 20-22: God supernaturally empowered Paul with boldness in preaching, enabling him to fearlessly proclaim the gospel and lead with authority.
f) Gal.1:11-17:God taught Paul important things while he was in Arabia, getting him ready to be a good leader in ministry.
g) Acts 9:23-25; 13:1-3: God’s protection and guidance enhanced Paul’s leadership by ensuring his safety and directing his missionary efforts effectively (cf. 2 Cor. 11:24-27;2 Tim. 3:16-17).
THE HUMAN AGENTS (Acts 9:10-30; 13:1-3; 18:5; 22:3; Gal. 1:18)
Then the Lord said to him, “Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do”.
(Acts 9:6)
a) Acts 9:10-17: Ananias’ s obedience to God’s instruction played a crucial role in Paul’s preparation for leadership Through Ananias, Paul received the Holy Spirit, empowering him for ministry and leadership.
b) vv. 26-27: Barnabas served as a mentor and advocate for Paul facilitating his acceptance into the Christian community and providing guidance in his early ministry endeavours. His support helped Paul’s transition into his leadership role in the Church.
c) vv. 19-22: The Church in Damascus supported Paul, fostering his confidence and growth as a leader, laying a foundation for his future ministry. This shows the role of the local church in equipping and
empowering leaders for ministry (cf. 13:1-3).
d) vv. 26-28: Despite initial hesitation, the apostles in Jerusalem eventually accepted Paul. Their recognition of Paul’s conversion and ministry further validated his leadership calling in the early Church
affirming his place among the apostles.
e) v.30: The brethren’s intervention here shows the importance of community support (solidarity and mutual care in the Church) in fostering effective leadership.
f) 18:5: Paul’s companions, like Timothy, Silas and Titus, were crucial in his leadership journey; offered support and assistance in ministry helping him fulfil leadership tasks effectively amid challenges (2 Cor 1:19;Tit. 1:4)
g) 22:3: Paul’s training under Gamaliel enhanced his effectiveness leader and communicator in the early Church and underscores the importance of academic learning in leadership development.
h) Gal. 1:18: Paul confessing Peter’s authority and their time together stress mentorship’s importance in leadership. Don’t joke with learning from experienced Christian leaders.
LESSONS DERIVED
- An encounter with God is the foundation for effective leadership.
- No one rises in isolation. It is essential to seek godly input from others, Be humble!
QUESTIONS
- Discuss Paul’s encounter with God.
- Identify the human agents God used to prepare Paul for his leadership roles.
