Are You Zealous in Pursuit of Jesus?

Jude 1:24-25  Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever.

In the land of Tarsus, there was a man named Saul, known for his zealous pursuit of those who followed The Way. His reputation preceded him, as one who breathed out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord (Acts 9:1).

One fateful day, as he journeyed to Damascus with letters of authority to bind all that called on the name of Jesus, a light from heaven shone round about him. Falling to the earth, he heard a voice saying unto him, “Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?” (Acts 9:4).

Trembling and astonished, Saul asked, “Who art thou, Lord?” The reply came, “I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks” (Acts 9:5).

Blinded by the light, Saul was led by the hand into Damascus, where he fasted and prayed for three days. It was then that Ananias, a disciple in Damascus, was instructed by the Lord in a vision to visit Saul. Despite his fears, Ananias obeyed, laying his hands upon Saul and saying, “Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost” (Acts 9:17).

Immediately, there fell from Saul’s eyes as it had been scales, and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized (Acts 9:18). Filled with the Holy Spirit, Saul’s heart was transformed. He began to preach Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God (Acts 9:20).

The people were amazed, and they said, “Is not this he that destroyed them which called on this name in Jerusalem, and came hither for that intent, that he might bring them bound unto the chief priests?” (Acts 9:21).

But Saul increased the more in strength, confounding the Jews which dwelt at Damascus, proving that he was following Christ (Acts 9:22). And so, Saul, the persecutor, became Paul, the apostle, chosen to bear the name of the Lord before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel (Acts 9:15).

And thus, a man once cloaked in darkness became a major beacon of light, his life a testament to the transformative power of the LORD’s divine and unmerited grace.

As Saul became Paul, his transformation was not just of the name, but of the spirit. Once a fierce opponent of Christians, he became a fervent advocate for Christ. His journeys took him far and wide, from Jerusalem to Rome, preaching the gospel with unwavering conviction.

Paul’s contributions to the New Testament are profound. He authored many epistles, addressing them to various churches and individuals. These letters, including Romans, Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Thessalonians, among others, form a significant portion of the New Testament. They offer guidance, correction, and encouragement, reflecting Paul’s deep theological insights and pastoral care.

His writings delve into the heart of the gospel, discussing themes of grace, redemption, and the resurrection. Paul’s letters have been pivotal in shaping Christian doctrine and practice, resonating through the ages.

Reflective questions to ponder upon:

• How does Paul’s transformation challenge our own perceptions of change and redemption?
• In what ways can we draw inspiration from Paul’s unwavering faith and dedication to spreading the gospel?
• What aspects of Paul’s teachings are most relevant to our lives today?

Jude 1:24-25 -Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever.

This above passage in Jude encapsulates the essence of Paul’s message of grace and redemption through Christ, and his lifelong dedication to spreading this message. May it inspire and guide us in our faith.

“Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for the story of Paul, a testament to Your transformative power. May all Your children learn from his fine example, to be bold in our faith and tireless in our services. Guide all of us in truth and love, as we seek to follow in the footsteps of Your apostles, as we shine our light from within in Jesus’ precious name, Amen.”