Posted on 07/12/2007 8:30:12 AM PDT by jonno
Fifty percent of the New Testament writings were written by the apostle Paul. His writings were essential in the development of Christian thought and doctrine. His ministry among the earliest churches was also widespread and influential. His life's story is perhaps lesser known, but equally compelling.
Paul, whose given-name was Saul, came from a background of intense religiosity. He was raised as a strict Jew in first century Palestine. He became a Pharisee, an expert on Jewish Law and its requirements in the lives of Jews. Those who were outsiders to this religion and heritage were deemed unclean and untouchable.
To Saul, the idea of Christianity was entirely blasphemous. To think that this man, Jesus, who died a shameful death on a Roman cross claimed to be the Son of God was a travesty and an insult. It became his mission to put an end to the movement of Christianity.
Saul soon became the great fear of Christians in the region as he began a campaign of violent opposition, entering house after house, dragging people off to put them in prison. In the courts, he cast his vote against Christians to send them to death, and he went so far as to ask the leaders for special permission to imprison anyone in Damascus who claimed belief in Jesus as the Messiah.
(Excerpt) Read more at rzim.org ...
"While this may seem likely in a world ruled by personal preference, even preference seems to fall short. Consider what Paul went through for the sake of his faith: He was imprisoned and beaten innumerable times, often to the point of death. Five times he was lashed with a rugged whip. Three times he was beaten with rods; other times he was stoned. He was shipwrecked three times, spending a night and a day in the middle of the sea. He spent untold hours enduring the rigors of travel, in danger from robbers, spies, wild animals, and enemies who wanted his head. He endured starvation, extreme cold, and exposure.
"What could possibly have given this man the will to choose Christ, and with joy, no less? I suggest only a real encounter with Jesus explains the behavior of one who was once a fervent persecutor only to become a fervent follower. Paul's was an encounter so powerful that he was willing to endure such hardship, and indeed such blessing. And this same Jesus is ready to meet you on the road where you find yourself today. As Christ himself assures us, "Whosoever will may come."
Saul had to be Paul, or unknown.
We had only girls.
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.