Central Truth

Paul, after experiencing a dramatic conversion from persecuting the Lord's disciples to becoming one himself, could make this public statement (Acts 23:1) without fear of being hypocritical. The fear of being a hypocrite causes many, including me, not to speak of their faith in God. Past sins continue to haunt.

Reflections

Paul's amazing transformation from persecutor of Christians to an ambassador for Christ brings to mind how my conversion differs by comparison. It occurred at a revival meeting in a small west-Texas town when I was eleven. I had attended Sunday school, training union, vacation Bible school, and church regularly. I continued to do so, and continued living the life of a pre-teen like others my age. There was no outward appearance of change in my lifestyle.

During my teenage years, neither I nor my parents were active in church. My mother was Baptist, my father, Church Of Christ. Religion was never discussed in our home, and public prayer was totally missing.

After marriage and as head of a family of five, I was not consistent. I was either involved as a Sunday School teacher with regular attendance or not attending and involved at all. I felt a need, rather than a desire, to attend. I knew this was not God's plan for me as I continued to seek His guidance in prayer (Maybe I was too busy speaking, rather than listening to what God was saying.).

During my formative years, I hadn't sought God's message through Bible study, only from pastors and teachers, who usually stressed punishment for sins and rarely God's love. I was still awaiting my call. Three years after becoming a widower and beginning a relationship with a new wife, Gisse and I were led to Fellowship Bible Church by my daughter. We became more and more interested and devoted to our new church home, hearing a message that God's love and forgiveness were ours for the asking.

I continue to seek God's purpose in my life, not with expectations of the magnitude Paul received, only for the courage to speak and act as a Christian in a way that will be pleasing to all I encounter. Whatever time I have remaining on earth, I intend to worship, usher, and enjoy small group and numerous friends, while offering to help those who need me and being thankful for the opportunity to do so. God, indeed, is good.

Discussion Questions

1. Are you comfortable speaking of your love for Christ? Why or why not?

2. Do you feel worthy to be called a disciple? Why or why not?

3. How did your conversion differ from Paul's?

4. How can you allot time for God to answer your prayers?