Lost But Found | Gee Scott Jr. | ONE CHURCH

Lost But Found | Gee Scott Jr. | ONE CHURCH

ICEBREAKER:

How did you see God move this last week?

Summary:

This sermon focuses on the incredible transformation of Saul of Tarsus into Paul the Apostle. It explores his journey from being a zealous Pharisee and persecutor of Christians to becoming a passionate minister of the Gospel, highlighting themes of redemption, grace, and the power of personal testimony.

Key Points:

  1. The Zeal of Saul: Saul was a fervent persecutor of Christians, believing he was doing God’s work (Acts 7:54-60; Acts 9:1-2).

  2. The Encounter with Christ: Saul’s dramatic encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus leads to his transformation (Acts 9:3-6).

  3. The Role of Ananias: Ananias, a disciple, obeys God’s command to visit Saul, illustrating the importance of obedience and trusting God’s plan (Acts 9:10-19).

  4. Paul’s Mission: After his conversion, Paul dedicates his life to spreading the Gospel, transitioning from a persecutor to a proclaimer (Galatians 1:11-17).

  5. A New Creation: Paul embodies the transformative power of Christ, emphasizing that anyone in Christ is a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17).

Scripture Referenced:

  • Acts 7:54-60: The stoning of Stephen, where Saul is present and approving the execution.

    • Key Verse: "And Saul approved of their killing him."

  • Acts 9:1-9: Saul's conversion on the road to Damascus, marking a pivotal moment in his life.

    • Key Verse: "As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him... 'Who are you, Lord?' Saul asked."

  • Acts 9:10-19: Ananias' visit to Saul, where he is instructed by God to restore Saul's sight and fill him with the Holy Spirit.

    • Key Verse: "Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, 'Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here—has sent me.'"

  • Galatians 1:11-17: Paul’s proclamation of the Gospel, explaining that his message comes directly from Christ, not from human sources.

    • Key Verse: "I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that the Gospel I preached is not of human origin."

  • 2 Corinthians 5:17: The affirmation of becoming a new creation in Christ.

    • Key Verse: "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!"

Conclusion:

Saul's transformation into Paul serves as a powerful reminder of God's grace and the potential for change in every individual. It illustrates how encountering Christ can radically alter our lives and how we are called to share that transformation with others.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What do you think motivated Saul to persecute Christians, and how can we avoid similar zeal without understanding?

  2. How does Saul's experience on the road to Damascus challenge your understanding of transformation?

  3. In what ways can Ananias' obedience inspire us to step out in faith when God calls us to help others?

  4. How does Paul’s story encourage you in your personal testimony?

  5. What practical steps can we take to share the message of transformation and grace with our community?

Guided Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the incredible story of Saul's transformation into Paul, which reminds us of Your boundless grace and power to change lives. Help us to embrace Your calling in our own lives and to be willing vessels for Your work. Guide us to share our testimonies and to encourage others in their faith journeys. Let our words and actions reflect Your love. In Jesus' name, we pray, Amen.

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