INTRODUCTION
Outline.
2. Paul’s Call By His Grace
Introductory Remarks.
1. This is part-two of a sermon-series entitled: “When it pleased God.” In this lesson, we will discuss Paul’s Call By His Grace.” He wrote: How God called him by grace. This sermon is the most comprehensive lesson I have ever delivered on the topic of: “Salvation by Grace.” We must appreciate the truth outlined in the scriptures, that salvation is procured: “by grace through the faith,” Ephesians 2:8; Philippians 3:9. It is not possible by the works of the law, or by works of human merit, Ephesians 2:9; Galatians 3:11-12. Grace is solely bestowed upon us through our, “faith and obedience” to the gospel of Christ, Romans 1:5; Romans 1:16; Romans 10:16-18. In Paul’s Letter to the Galatians, he firmly and confidently defended this truth of God. I pray you will continue to read and study this lesson and all of our sermons regarding: “The Pattern of Conversion," now available on SermonCentral.com: to understand further: “God’s calling by faith into His grace,” through the gospel of Christ! This lesson is another sermon-series by me for an in-depth study on the grace of God.
2. Second, we will discuss how God called Paul by His grace. One of the greatest gifts of love and grace to humanity, besides giving Christ for our sins: was God's call of Saul of Tarsus into Christ and the church. Paul was a “pattern” of God's mercy, kindness, and grace. His transformation was from persecutor to preacher; destroyer to the promoter; religious zealot of the traditions of his fathers, to the servant of Christ; and from a blameless Pharisee under the law, to the prisoner of Christ under the grace of God. The call of Saul brought "rest to the saints" and growth to the church through the disciples’: “preaching of the faith he once tried to ravish,” Galatians 1:22-24. No other disciple contributed to the gospel's spread into Asia, Africa, and Europe: as did this beloved apostle. When it pleased God, He "separated Saul from his mother’s womb, called him by His grace, to reveal His Son in him, that he might preach Him unto the heathens,” Galatians 1:15-17. He did this with unswerving devotion, and tireless dedication in carrying the message of grace everywhere, as an "ambassador of Christ," 2 Corinthians 5:18-21. With this brief introduction, let’s consider part-two in this sermon-series: Paul’s Call By His Grace.
II PAUL’S CALL BY HIS GRACE
A. Paul’s former conversation. Paul now conveys God's call of him to these Galatians through His grace. He wrote: “For you have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews' religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it,” Galatians 1:13. He mentions two noteworthy things: 1) his life in the Jewish religion, observing the traditions of his fathers, and 2) his persecution beyond measures the church of God. One need only to read Acts 8 and 9 to obtain a detailed account of his persecutions of the church. For now, let's consider,
B. Paul’s former life. The Galatians undoubtedly had heard of Paul’s former life in the Jewish religion: Judaism. Here, he mentions his former life but does not expound upon it. He wrote: “And (I) profited in the Jews' religion above many of my equals in my nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers,” Galatians 1:14. He unlikely did not want to discuss all of his achievements under this system of works. Interestingly, he mentioned these two things. Let’s consider them,
1. His profit in the Jews religion. He wrote: “I profited in the Jews' religion above many of my equals in my nation,” Galatians 1:14a. He rose to great heights far beyond his equal in this religion. He became a “Pharisee of the Pharisees,” Acts 23:6. Living in all “good conscience before God until this day,” Acts 23:1. He sat at the “feet of Gamaliel and was taught of the most strictness of the law of his fathers, being a zealot of God,” Acts 22:1-3. Observe,
a. Jesus taught His disciples: “They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service. And these things will they do unto you because they have not known the Father, nor me,” John 16:1-3; John 8:19; Luke 10:22.
b. Paul here is bearing witness to his former life, he once trusted and boasted in as he made his defense: before the chief priests and the entire Jerusalem council, Acts 22:30; Acts 23:1-11.
c. He was “Being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of the fathers." He not only kept these traditions but was more exceedingly zealous in them than those of his countrymen. These were the same “traditions" that Jesus rebuked the: “scribes and Pharisees of being zealous in their keeping of the traditions of their fathers.” Observe—
1) Mark wrote: “Then came together unto him the Pharisees, and certain of the scribes, which came from Jerusalem. And when they saw some of his disciples eat bread being defiled, that is to say, with unwashed hands, they found fault. For the Pharisees and all the Jews, except they washed their hands oft, eat not, holding the elders'...Then the Pharisees and scribes asked Him, Why walk not thy disciples according to the tradition of the elders, but eat bread with unwashed hands? He answered and said unto them: Well, hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, these people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men,” Mark 7:1-7. For brevity, I have collapsed these verses. Let's consider Matthew's account of their accusation and condemnation of Jesus and His disciples.
2) Matthew wrote: “Then came to Jesus (the) scribes and Pharisees, which were of Jerusalem, saying, Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? For they wash not their hands… before eating…Ye hypocrites, well did Esaias prophesy of you, saying, these people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me. But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men,” Matthew 15:1-9.
3) Conclusion: These were the same traditions of the fathers, Jesus alluded to in His correction of these leaders’ “sayings and observants” during His Sermon on the Mount, Matthew 5-7. Jesus spoke of these leaders' misrepresentation of the law and commandments unto the ordinary people, and they were guilty of saying but not keeping the commandments of God, Matthew 23:1-8. He warned the people to be "aware of the leaven of the Pharisees," Luke 12:1. We can deduce in these passages just what Paul was being, “exceedingly zealous in the traditions of his fathers," he too did not know the "commandments of God, nor the will of the Lord."
a) I am afraid many today have committed themselves to excel in the traditions imposed upon them by their religious leaders. They know what is written in their Manuals, Disciplines, and Books of Theology; but, not the "will of the Lord,” revealed in the Holy Scriptures: “the word of God,” Ephesians 5:17; Colossians 2:8; Colossians 2:20-22.
b) I say this to their shame. How can one claim to love God so, and believe His Word; yet, not even know of, nor fully understand: "the truth of the gospel of the grace of God?" I, too, at one time was in the same blindness to the "righteousness of God," Romans 10:1-4. It was a young man named: Mitchell Scates that turned my eyes to the scriptures and away from "the traditions of the fathers.”
c) All must seek “out of the Scriptures” through intense study, meditation, and devotion to the word: to learn "the way of God more perfectly,” Acts 18:24-28; John 5:39; Acts 17:11.
d) Paul, too, was learned in the Old Testament scriptures, the Laws, and the Prophets. Yet he could not “cut Christ out of the scriptures” until God “revealed His Son unto him;” through the revelation of Jesus Christ, Galatians 1:10-12. After his conversion and 3-years in Arabia, he could reason out of the scriptures: “That Jesus was the Christ,” Acts 17:3; Acts 18:5; Luke 24:44-47. Then, he mentioned,
2. His persecution. He wrote: “I was violently persecuting the church of God and trying to destroy it,” Galatians 1:14b. Paul restates this at the end of Chapter 1. He wrote: “And (I) was unknown by face unto the churches of Judaea which were in Christ: But they had heard only, That he which persecuted us in times past now preacheth the faith which once he destroyed. And they glorified God in me,” Galatians 1:22-24. This verse bears some further discussion before we go any further.
a. That he which persecuted us in times past: “now preacheth the faith which once he destroyed.” Let's notice this verse's translation in these two interlinears to obtain a more precise understanding:
i. The New Greek/English Interlinear New Testament reads: “He…now is preaching the good news of the faith which once he was ravaging,” Page 647.
ii. The Englishman’s Greek New Testament reads: “He…now announces the glad tidings—the faith which once he ravaged,” Page 491.
b. It is to be understood: “the good news and the glad tidings” is of the gospel, Romans 10:14-15. This has been explained and illustrated in other lessons, so it should not be discussed further.
c. The verse could read: “He…now preacheth the gospel – the faith which once he ravaged,” Galatians 1:23; Colossians 1:23.
d. Therefore, “the gospel” is “the good news” of “the faith,” Acts 20:24; Philippians 1:27.
NOTE: Download our lesson “Saul of Tarsus’ Conversion,” from SermonCentral.com, by Ron Freeman. It discusses Paul's persecution of the church and his conversion to Christ. We will now consider his call by the grace of God.
C. Called me by His grace. Paul wrote: “But when God, who separated me from my mother's womb and called me by his grace. To reveal His Son in me,” Galatians 1:15-16a. Paul is now enlightening us regarding his call by God into His grace and apostleship. He will establish it was not by the will of man; that he was called and appointed, but by the will of God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. God would enlighten Paul to His Son, that he might present His love, mercy, and grace unto the Gentiles. Observe,
1. But when it pleased God. As we are privileged to read and understand Paul’s work in troubling the church, we would no doubt agree, it was time for God to take action against the persecutor of the faith. It is at God's pleasure and time; that we all are called into His grace. Some at an early age, others older, yet still some in their older years. By His love, mercy, and grace, we all are called into the faith of Christ Jesus. Let’s look into this,
a. Moses wrote: “The LORD did not set his love upon you, nor choose you because ye were more in number than any people; for ye were the fewest of all people: But because the LORD loved you, and because he would keep the oath which he had sworn unto your fathers, hath the LORD brought you out with a mighty hand, and redeemed you out of the house of bondmen, from the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt,” Deuteronomy 7:7-8. Moses states four reasons why God chose Israel:
1) First, “Because the Lord loved them.”
2) Further, “Because He would keep the oath He had sworn unto their fathers.”
3) Next, “That He might bring them out with a mighty hand.”
4) Finally, “That He might redeem them out of the house of bondmen, the hand of Pharaoh.”
5) Conclusion: God called Israel out of Egypt because He loved them; to fulfill an oat made to their fathers; to bring them out with a mighty hand, and redeem them out of the house of bondmen (slavery) in Egypt. Genesis 15:7-8; Genesis 15:13-16. God has set His face upon all that loves Jesus to call them into His grace, to fulfill his oat to all nations, to bring them out of darkness; and translate them into the kingdom of His dear Son, being redeemed by Jesus’ precious blood, Colossians 1:13-14; Ephesian 1:7. He called Paul when it pleased Him to do so: because He loved him, to fulfill His oat unto the fathers; to procure his service: to be an apostle to preach His Son unto the heathens. This call was not an afterthought: it was God's plan for Paul even during his sin and disobedience before Him. He is not willing that any: “should perish, but that all should come unto repentance,” 2 Peter 3:9; 1 Timothy 2:3-7. Let’s consider this idea further, “it seemed good in God’s sight.”
b. Jesus gives praise unto His Father. After He had sent out the 70 and they returned.
1) Luke wrote of them: “And the seventy returned with joy, saying: Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name,” Luke 10:17.
2) Jesus replied: “Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven,” Luke 10:20.
3) Jesus rejoices in Spirit: “In that hour Jesus rejoiced in spirit, and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes: even so, Father; for so it seemed good in thy sight,” Luke 10:21.
c. Jesus thanks His Father: “At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes. Even so, Father: for so it seemed good in thy sight. All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no man knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him,” Matthew 11:25-27. Conclusion,
d. Therefore, when it pleased God, He called Paul into His grace. He had His hand upon him from his mother’s womb. And called him: “when it seemed good in His sight.” Similarly, God: “In the fulness of time sent forth His Son, made of a woman, born under the law…that He might redeem us from the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons,” Galatians 4:4-5. Yes, He did so, “when it seemed good in His sight!”
2. Paul continued: "Who separated me from my mother's womb," Galatians 1:15b. Paul states that God's will for his life was established when he came forth from his mother's womb. None of us just stumbled "into the grace of God." He had His hand upon each of us from the time of our birth. When it "pleased Him," he called Paul by His grace. We see this throughout the Old Testament of the Prophets. Consider,
a. The word “separated” in the Gr., is aphorizo or af-or-id'-zo, which means to set off by boundary, i.e., to limit, exclude, or appoint, etc.—divide, separate, or sever, for some specific purpose, i.e., apostleship, prophet, evangelist, or pastors and teachers, Ephesians 4:11. It is the same word Jesus used to define how He would: "separate the sheep from the goats," Matthew 25:32; Luke 6:22. The Holy Ghost said: "Separate me Barnabas and Saul," Acts 13:1-3.
1) He separated Paul --"set him apart": because of His election and love for him (compare Acts 9:15; Acts 22:14); to show forth His "good pleasure," in Paul for His grace, forgiveness, and calling him into the apostleship of Christ. The actual "separating" or "setting apart" to the work he has been called is evident in Romans 1:1-5; 1 Corinthians 1:1; and 1 Corinthians 15:9.
2) Paul might also be referring to his religious separation as a Pharisee. The Hebrew word for “separated” is "para?" or “paw-rad,” Genesis 13:11; Genesis 13:14. The scribes and Pharisees were, in fact, "Separationists" from the people. They neither ate nor communicated with “publicans and sinners,” Luke 5:30; Luke 15:1-2. God separated Paul. His decision before his birth (when he was neither good nor bad), Romans 9:10-11. This was God’s election (choosing) of Paul, Acts 9:15.
3) His mother’s womb. Thus, this calling was by the grace of Jesus Christ, Acts 9:11. It was granted solely because of God’s mercy and love for Paul and all the nations, Galatians 2:20; Ephesians 2:4-9; 2 Corinthians 5:14-15. This particular calling began on the Damascus highway and was concluded 3-days later in the city by Ananias, the Lord’s faithful disciple, Acts 9:3-18. It occurred when Paul: “Arose and was baptized to wash away his sins, calling on the name of the Lord,” Acts 22:16; Romans 10:13; 1 Corinthians 1:2. This calling “from the womb” follows God's sacred tradition and practice. Observe,
b. David’s call. He wrote: “For thou art my hope, O Lord GOD: thou art my trust from my youth. By thee have I been holden up from the womb: thou art he that took me out of my mother's bowels: my praise shall be continual of thee,” Psalms 71:5-6.
c. Old Testament prophets. We see God’s work among the prophets. Consider,
1) Isaiah’s call. He wrote: “Listen, O isles, unto me; and hearken, ye people, from far; The LORD hath called me from the womb; from the bowels of my mother hath he made mention of my name… And now, saith the LORD that formed me from the womb to be his servant, to bring Jacob again to Him, Though Israel is not gathered, yet shall I be glorious in the eyes of the LORD, and my God shall be my strength,” Isaiah 49:1; Isaiah 49:5.
2) Jerimiah’s call. Jehovah said unto him: “Before I formed thee in (your mother’s) belly I knew thee, and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations,” Jerimiah 1:5.
3) John the Baptist’s call. The angel of the Lord said: “Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John. And thou shalt have joy and gladness, and many shall rejoice at his birth. For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost, even from his mother's womb. And many of the children of Israel shall he turn to the Lord their God. And he shall go before him in the Spirit and power of Elias, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord,” Luke 1:13-17. The Lord called John to be a prophet, and the: "Voice of one crying in the wilderness, to prepare the way of the Lord," Matthew 3:1-3; Isaiah 40:3-5.
d. Conclusion: Paul, like David and all the Old Testament prophets, was also chosen by God and called by His grace in due time. It was when it pleased God: “He separated Paul from his mother’s womb.” All of Paul’s early childhood, education (sitting at Gamaliel’s feet), and church persecutions were permitted: before God called him to be an Apostle, Acts 5:34; Acts 22:3. O’ how all His ways: “Are past understanding, and unable to be comprehended,” Romans 11:33-36; Job 37:23; Ecclesiastes 3:11. God had witnessed the work of Paul's hands, both good and evil. Yet, He called him into the grace and fellowship of Christ. Why? Because he obeyed the truth of the gospel, which now he preacheth to the Gentiles. God will now use,
1) Saul’s religious life as a Pharisee, where he declares himself “blameless,” is now essential for him to see his need for God’s grace to attain the “righteousness of God.” For where "sin doth abounded, grace doth much more abounded,” Romans 5:20. The blood of Christ can forgive and cleanse all sinners, even Saul, Matthew 26:28; Romans 3:23-26; Acts 22:16.
2) Beloved, of the Lord: If you understand right now that “God’s hand is upon you,” do as Paul had done, humbly accept God’s will for your life. And through sincere faith and a repentant heart: “Be obedient to the gospel of Christ,” Romans 1:5; Acts 6:7; Romans 1:16. Confess your faith in Christ, as the Son of God, and then, be: “baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, for the remission of sins.”
3) Immediately, God will: “forgive you of all your sins and give you the gift of the Holy Spirit,” Acts 2:38. Just as He did Paul, and all obedient believers in Christ, Acts 9:17-18; Acts 5:32.
4) The same Lord will then: “Add you to the church,” Acts 2:47; Acts 2:41. The church of Christ!
5) Contact right NOW any minister, brother, or leader of the church of Christ, in your community. They will gladly assist you in completing your obedience to the gospel of Christ. Don't wait; tomorrow may be too late! Today is the day of your salvation, 2 Corinthians 6:1-2; Hebrews 3:7-9.
NOTE: I have discussed this “calling" more thoroughly in a lesson entitled: “Calling on the Name of the Lord" on SermonCentral.com. Download it to study how sinners: “Called upon the name of the Lord to be saved.” Let’s continue, Paul wrote further,
3. And called me by His grace. Now, we are at Saul’s point of decision. When and where did God call him by His grace. Before we answer these questions, let’s investigate this sentence more closely. Observe,
a. First, the word “called” in Gr., is kaleo or Kal-eh'-o, which means to call: --to bid, to invite, to call (forth), or to give a name to, or to bear a name or title (among men), Matthew 11:28-30.
b. Further, the words “by” in Gr., is dia or dee-ah, is a primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through; or by the reason or on account of, or through(-out), wherefore, or with (-in). It is translated in our text as "through." God's call unto Paul was through grace and not through the law or his works of human merit, and it was granted by His "favor" unto him and to all people.
c. Next, the word “His” in Gr., is autos or how-tos, a personal pronoun that distinguishes a person or thing from or contrasts it with another or gives him (it) emphatic prominence. Through grace, God called Paul and all the Galatians into salvation, forgiveness, and peace of Him. This salvation was made possible through the sacrifice of Christ for the sins of all humanity (both Jews and Gentiles), Romans 3:24-26.
d. Lastly, the word “grace” in Gr., is charis or khar'-ece, which means goodwill, loving-kindness, a favor: of the merciful kindness by which God, exerting his holy influence upon souls, turns them to Christ, keeps, strengthens, increases them in Christian faith, knowledge, affection, and kindles them to the exercise of the Christian virtues. Grace is what God extends to those desiring to be saved, granted solely by His love and mercy unto them. It is the gift of God, not earned or even deserved by us in our undone conditions, of sin and disobedience.
e. Conclusion: The apostle now affirms that God called him into the grace of Christ and the apostleship of the Lord. This call was not by men but by the Lord Jesus Christ, and this call was by His grace. God's good pleasure granted this calling. It seemed right in God’s eyes to call Saul at this time and to forgive his sins and set him into the apostleship of Christ.
1) It was sudden, timely, and brought a significant change in Saul's spiritual life. Immediately he became a proclaimer of the message: the gospel of the grace of God, who once sought to destroy the works of Christ, the church, and all its disciples.
2) But God, who was rich in mercy, called him by His grace and not by the works of the law. Why? Because He loved him and would now use Paul’s education, training, dedication, and zealousness to “preach the good news of the faith he once ravaged,” Galatians 1:23-24.
3) That all the saints might “glorify God” in his conversion of heart and behavior in Christ. To fulfill His divine purpose, and will, for his life in Christ; now as the servant unto all the nations. Next,
4. To reveal His Son in me. Paul continued: “To reveal His Son in me, that I might preach Him among the heathens,” Galatians 1:16a. How would God reveal His Son: Jesus Christ unto Paul? To better understand God's will, it is appropriate to consider a few words in this sentence from their original language: “apokalypto autos yhios en emoi.” Consider,
a. The phrase “to reveal” in Gr., is apokalypto or ap-ok-al-oop'-to, which means to take off the cover, i.e., to disclose: —reveal, to make known, to manifest, to discover what before was hidden or in the past unknown to all men. God would reveal unto Paul His Son Jesus Christ: 1) first, to him; and 2) second, through him: unto the Jews and Gentiles. He will send Paul to declare: “His name among all the nations,” Acts 9:15-16.
b. God revealed His Son to Paul. One might be taken back by this statement: “to reveal His Son” unto Paul? Could it be possible for one to have studied the scriptures and yet not know Christ? Well, that is undoubtedly the case with Paul and many others today. They read the Bible and even study the scriptures, yet they do not know the Lord. Like Paul, who studied the law through the “traditions of the fathers,” and not through the Law of Moses. Jesus said to the Jews:
1) One, “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me… For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me: for he wrote of me. But if ye believe not his writings, how shall ye believe my words?” John 5:39-47.
2) Two, “At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes. Even so, Father: for so it seemed good in thy sight. All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no man knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him,” Matthew 11:25-27.
3) Third, “No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him at the last day. It is written in the prophets: And they shall be all taught of God. Every man, therefore, that hath heard and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me,” John 5:44-45.
c. Jesus came to reveal himself and His Father, unto the 12. He did it through His teachings and His working of miracles among the people. The apostles came to know and believed that He was, in fact: the Christ, the Son of the Living God, Matthew 16:16; John 1:49; John 6:69; John 20:30-31.
Matthias was added to the 11 apostles because he was with Jesus from His baptism unto His ascension, Acts 1:21-26.
d. Paul, on the other hand, was not granted this learning or faith in Jesus Christ during His ministry. In like fashion, Paul would also have to be taught by Jesus Christ, not an apostle or a disciple of the Lord. This was necessary that Paul would not be considered inferior unto the other apostles. Although he often thought of himself as such, Galatians 1:11; Galatians 1:16-19. However, he excelled above them, humbly referring to himself as the "least of all the apostles” and the “least of all the saints" 1 Corinthians 15:9; Ephesians 3:8.
e. He would acquire the knowledge of Christ’s work and divinity through the: “revelation of Jesus Christ,” Galatians 1:11-12; Galatians 2:1-2; Galatians 2:6-10. Paul emphasized that during his visit to Jerusalem (by revelation), he was examined by the other apostles: (Peter, James, and John) regarding his preaching of the gospel of the grace of God, Acts 20:24. The “big three” added nothing to his message but that he should remember the poor saints, which he was disposed to do already.
1) Paul’s revelation began during his visit to Arabia and returned to Damascus, Galatians 1:17. Then while in Tarsus, after leaving Jerusalem, with the help of the disciples, Acts 9:20-31.
a) During this period, he was given the revelation of the mystery of Christ, Ephesians 3:1-11; Romans 16:25-27; 1 Timothy 3:16; Titus 1:1-3.
b) Preaching and teaching throughout all the regions of Syria and Cilicia, Galatians 1:21; Acts 15:23.
c) There is no more mentioning of Paul until Acts chapter 11, when Barnabas went to Tarsus to find him and returned to Antioch, Acts 11:25-26.
2) Paul worked with the church in Antioch, alongside Barnabas, for a whole year, Acts 11:25-26.
a) Together, they built up the church and carried aid from Antioch, unto the elders in Jerusalem to assist the poor saints, Acts 11:27-30.
b) After the Jerusalem Conference, “Paul chose Silas…and went through Syria and Cilicia, confirming all the churches,” Acts 15:40-41. Let’s hear now why God called Paul by His grace.
D. That I might. “Preach Him among the heathens, immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood. Neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me: but I went into Arabia, and returned unto Damascus,” Galatians 1:16-17. This truth would become a struggle for him later in preaching the gospel among the heathens. But for now, observe,
1. The mystery of the gospel was kept hidden in God until He was ready to make it manifest unto the world. It was kept secret from the beginning of the ages until “the fullness of time,” when God would make known this mystery: “through His holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit,” Ephesians 3:5; 1 Peter 1:10-12. It was revealed unto Paul,
2. That he might preach Christ: “Unto the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ. And to make all men see what the fellowship of the mystery is. To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God: According to the eternal purpose which He had hidden in Christ Jesus our Lord: In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of Him,” Ephesians 3:7-12; Romans 5:1-2.
3. Paul’s concluded: “In whom we have boldness and access with confidence through the faith in Him,” Ephesians 3:12; Romans 5:1-2. Here again, we find the phrase: " dia ho pisteos autos," in the Greek text, is translated as: "through the faith of Him" in English.
a. Recall our mentioning of this phrase earlier during our study of Galatians 3:26-27; Ephesians 2:8-9; and Philippians 3:9. (Unfortunately, I will not mention this word study project in the lesson, nor the steps and instruction below: because the necessary tools will be unavailable to the audience). However, this information could be a group project during a bible study class where the bible study leader and the students have an Internet connection.
NOTE: It's time for you to consult your own Greek Interlinear. This will permit you to read and review Paul's meaning and use of the phrase: "dia ho pisteos autos," in Ephesians 3:12. For your word study project, you can also review this text in the BlueLetterBible’s (BLB) Textus Receptus and Morphological GNT, as well as all the other passages mentioned earlier, at a later time.
b. To begin, gain access to the Internet and open the BLB's application:
1) Go to Ephesians chapter 3. Scroll down to verse 12. Click on Tools, next to verse 12. The Interlinear will open first by default.
2) Now, locate 3:12 under the Textus Receptus heading. Toward the end of verse 12, you will read in Greek these words: “dia ho pisteos autos.”
3) Scroll down in the Interlinear to each of these English words: “by,” “the,” “faith,” and “of him.”
4) Observe the English word’s meaning in Greek under the “Inflected, Root & Transliterated” heading in the Interlinear.
5) Repeat these steps in reviewing each of the texts mentioned above. Jot down your findings, and note their similarities.
c. Conclusion: You should now be able to draw your conclusion of what the words: “dia ho pisteos autos” in Greek means, in Ephesians 3:12. Once you have repeated these procedures one or two more times, it will become easy to navigate through this application. Remember, “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needed not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth,” 2 Timothy 2:15; Proverbs 15:28; 1 Peter 3:15.
4. Paul’s message of the gospel. What had Paul preached to the Galatians? We can deduce that this was the same message he preached everywhere Christ sent him. The beloved apostles wrote to Corinth: "And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God. For I determined not to know anything among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified, And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and much trembling. And my speech and my preaching were not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the (Holy) Spirit and of power: That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God,” 1 Corinthians 2:1-5.
a. Recall, this was one of the questions Paul asked the Galatians: “He, therefore, that ministered to you (in) the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, doeth he by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?" Galatians 3:5. Of course, Paul was admonishing them regarding his work among them through the hearing of the faith.
b. His work among them was in mighty signs and wonders, and power granted to him by the Holy Ghost, 2 Corinthians 12:12; 1 Corinthians 1:7.
c. Just as he had preached elsewhere, “the gospel of the mystery of Christ,” Romans 15:15-19; Romans 1:11-12. Paul's custom was to always impart spiritual gifts unto his disciples, as the Holy Spirit wills, 1 Corinthians 12:11; Hebrews 2:4. To establish them in the faith of Christ.
5. Paul’s ministry in Ephesus. While returning to Ephesus, Paul came upon "certain disciples," Acts 19:1. To determine their status as a disciple of Christ. He asked them a series of questions. We might want to remember these questions to inquire into a believer's faith in Christ. It is more prudent to ask questions rather than to proceed blindly, in our discussion of the gospel with those seeking to: “learn the way of God more perfectly,” Acts 18:24-28. Observe his questions,
a. First, Have you received: “The Holy Ghost since they had believed?” And they replied: “We have not even heard that there be any Holy Ghost,” Acts 19:2.
b. Further, He asked them: “Unto what then were you baptized? And they said: unto John’s baptism,” Acts 19:3. Notice, Paul now links their receipt of the Holy Ghost with their baptism? This is a connection all Baptists and Evangelicals have missed or flat out ignored! Lord, forgive them! They know not what they do. He continued,
c. Next, “Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people…When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus…And all the men were about twelve," Acts 19:4-7. I have collapsed the verses for brevity.
d. Finally, Now we know why Paul's questions to the Galatians were so important. Paul asked the same questions to determine the discipleship of these twelve men in Ephesus.
e. Summary: What Paul had learned was: these twelve men were the “disciples of John the Baptist.” And as the disciples of John, and not the disciples of Christ:
1) They were not Christians; they had neither heard nor believed in the Lord Jesus.
2) They were not baptized “into the name of the Lord Jesus.”
3) They had not received the “remission of their sins.”
4) They had not received the “gift of the Holy Ghost.”
5) They had not received the spiritual gifts of “speaking in tongues or prophesying.”
f. Conclusion: Paul’s preaching of Jesus and their baptism into the name of the Lord Jesus was the hearing of the faith! Ephesians 1:13-14. This was the same message that caused the Galatians to believe and obey the gospel's truth to be saved and receive the Holy Ghost, Galatians 3:1; Galatians 3:16. This was Paul's: "preaching of the good news (the gospel) of the faith which he once ravaged,” Galatians 1:23; Galatians 5:7. With this clarification, let’s consider his call into the apostleship of Christ.
E. Paul’s apostleship. The apostle wrote to Timothy, his son in the faith, of God's call of him into the apostleship of Jesus Christ. Christ used Paul as a compassionate and merciful pattern to reveal the grace and mercy of God unto all humanity. Listen to his exposition of this calling, written unto his beloved son Timothy. Observe,
1. He wrote to Timothy: “And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord who has enabled me because He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry, although I was formerly a blasphemer, a persecutor, and an insolent (bold) man; but I obtained mercy because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. And the grace of our Lord was exceedingly abundant, with faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief. However, for this reason, I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show all longsuffering, as a pattern to those who will believe in Him for everlasting life. Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, to God who alone is wise, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen,” 1 Timothy 1:12-17. Let’s summarize his call by grace.
a. First, it was with thanksgiving unto the Lord that Paul mentions his call into the apostleship of Christ. May we never cease to give thanks to God for our salvation and call into the ministry of Jesus Christ. Paul continued,
b. Further, he wrote that the Lord enabled him. Observe,
1) The word “enabled” in Gr., is endynamoô, which means strengthening, equipping, and making strong. His calling and apostleship were made possible by the grace of Jesus Christ, Romans 1:5; Philippians 4:13; 2 Timothy 4:16-18. By the "revelation of Jesus Christ," he was granted an understanding of the "Mystery of Christ," Galatians 1:11-12; Ephesians 3:1-7; Romans 16:25-26.
2) Counted me faithful:
a) The word “counted” in Gr., is hegeomai, which means to consider, account, or deem something to be so. Through grace and his calling as an apostle, Christ counted him faithful for this work and his ministry.
b) The word “faithful” in Gr., is pistos, which means trustworthy, reliable, and faithful to an office. Saul would be faithful to his calling as an apostle of Christ, 1 Corinthians 4:1-2; 2 Corinthians 4:1-2.
3) Putting me into the ministry. The word “put” in Gr., is tithemi, which means to set, put in place, appoint or ordain to an office.
a) Saul was set in the church as an apostle, 1 Corinthians 12:28; 2 Timothy 1:11.
b) Similarly, Peter and the 11 were set in their offices as apostles.
c) None can be “set” today, as an apostle, unable to fulfill the criteria of the scriptures, for this office, Acts 1:21-26.
c. Next, Paul declared himself to be a blasphemer, a persecutor, and a dangerous person. The New Greek/English Interlinear New Testament translates this verse as: "Previously, being a blasphemer, a persecutor, and an insolent (rude and disgraceful) man," 1 Timothy 1:13a.
d. Inserted, “But he obtained mercy because he did it ignorantly in unbelief,” 1 Timothy 1:13b. Many today are doing what they are doing “ignorantly in unbelief”; not “knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God,” Matthew 22:29; Hebrews 3:10; Psalms 95:10.
e. Added, Paul recalls how “The grace of God was exceedingly abundant with faith and love in Christ Jesus. This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief,” 1 Timothy1:14-15.
1) He calls himself the "chief" sinner, and he considers himself the worst of all sinners.
2) Least of all the apostles. Notice: “For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. But by the grace of God, I am what I am,” 1 Corinthians 15:9-10. Where sin abounded: “grace did much more abounded,” Romans 5:20.
3) Lease of all the saints, Ephesians 3:8. Paul considers himself the least of all the saints and the least of all the apostles. Yet, God magnified his words and works among the Gentiles.
f. Finally, “Howbeit for this reason he obtained mercy.”
1) That in him first Jesus Christ, might shew forth all longsuffering.
2) For a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to everlasting life. Paul considered himself a showcase for all that would call upon the name of the Lord after him. Believing if God could save the "chief," he would be able to save all the "braves." He then turns again to the gospel message: how was it granted unto him?
2. I did not confer with any human being. He wrote: “Immediately, I conferred not with flesh and blood,” Galatians 1:16b. The meaning here in this verse is: that he did not consult with any men, neither apostle nor saint, in his learning or understanding of the gospel, which he now preaches. There is some today who would claim otherwise. That it is Christ Jesus that has given them their understanding of the gospel of Christ, they claim such revelations, to elevate themselves above their equals. Paul, however, wrote,
a. To the Romans: “Be of the same mind one toward another. Minding not high things, but condescending to men of low estate. Being not wise in your conceits,” Romans 12:16.
b. To the Corinthians: “And these things, brethren, I have in a figure transferred to myself and Apollos for your sakes; that ye might learn in us not to think of men above that which is written, that no one of you is puffed up for one against another,” 1 Corinthians 4:6.
c. To the Colossians: “Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind,” Colossians 2:18; Colossians 2:8.
d. Conclusions: Those that behave in this fashion are nothing: “But evil men and seducers that shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived,” 2 Timothy 3:13; Galatians 2:4-5; Jude 1:4; Jude 1:16. Whose hearts are filled with pride and self-conceit! Supposing to gain in knowledge and the wisdom of God; but their hearts are full of contempt to all that is holy, godly, and righteous. These are they: "Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. For of this sort are they…Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth," 2 Timothy 3:5-7; Titus 1:15-16. He continued,
3. Nor did I go up to Jerusalem: “To those who were already apostles before me,” Galatians 1:17a. Paul admits that he neither spoke to any apostle of Christ, before his visit to Jerusalem some three years after his conversion. He wrote:
a. First, “But I went away at once into Arabia," Galatians 1:17. It appears he Like Christ, immediately after His baptism; Paul was driven into the desert. Christ to be tempted by the devil. Paul needed to be taught by Jesus and hear “how great things he must suffer for His name’s sake,” Acts 9:16. Then he wrote,
b. Further, “And afterward I returned to the city of Damascus," Galatians 1:17; Acts 9:20-25. This word implies he left Damascus and then returned. That time spell was "three years." Then after "many days were fulfilled," the Jews took counsel to kill him: lying in wait at the gate. The disciples took him by night…and sent him away to Jerusalem. He would meet Peter and James after being introduced to the church by Barnabas: a lifelong friend. Paul penned,
c. Finally, "I went up to Jerusalem." More likely, I was accompanied up to Jerusalem by some of the disciples from Damascus (although not mentioned). This would be his first meeting with any apostles after his conversion to Christ, and revelation from Him. He went,
4. To see Peter: “And abode with him fifteen days. But other apostles saw I none, save James the Lord's brother. Now the things which I write unto you, behold, before God, I lie not,” Galatians 1:18-20.
a. Paul's initial preaching of Christ was after returning to Damascus from his visit to Arabia.
b. The account of this preaching is found in Acts 9:26-29.
5. Afterwards, I came: “Into the regions of Syria and Cilicia; And was unknown by face unto the churches of Judaea which were in Christ: But they had heard only: That he which persecuted us in times past now preacheth the faith which once he destroyed. And they glorified God in me,” Galatians 1:21-24. Paul’s passing into Caesarea, and being sent to Tarsus (the regions of Syria and Cilicia), can be found in Acts 9:30-31; Acts 11:25-26; and Acts 15:23. See also Acts 15:40-41; Acts 21:39; and Acts 22:3. At our next gathering, we will consider part-three of this sermon-series: Believer’s Call By His Grace. For now, I will now wrap up the lesson. Recall we discussed….
CONCLUSION
A. Outline.
2. Paul’s Call By His Grace
B. Summarize main points.
1. In part-two, we discussed how God called Paul by His grace. One of the greatest gifts of love and grace to humanity, besides giving Christ for our sins: was God's call of Saul of Tarsus into Christ and the church. Paul was a "pattern" of God's mercy, kindness, and grace. His transformation was from persecutor to preacher; destroyer to the promoter; religious zealot of the traditions of his fathers, to the servant of Christ; and from a blameless Pharisee under the law, to the prisoner of Christ under the grace of God.
2. The call of Saul brought "rest to the saints" and growth to the church through the disciples': "preaching of the faith he once tried to ravish," Galatians 1:22-24. No other disciple contributed to the gospel's spread into Asia, Africa, and Europe: as did this beloved apostle.
3. When it pleased God, He "separated Saul from his mother's womb, called him by His grace, to reveal His Son in him, that he might preach Him unto the heathens," Galatians 1:15-17. He did this with unswerving devotion, and tireless dedication in carrying the message of grace everywhere, as an "ambassador of Christ," 2 Corinthians 5:18-21.
C. Invitation. Present the pattern of conversion, H.B.R.C.B. “Come unto me all ye that labor,” Matthew 11:28-30.
D. Exhortation. “Therefore, we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip…How shall we escape if we neglect so great salvation," Hebrews 2:1-4?
E. Motivation. "Knowing, therefore, the terror of the Lord, we persuade men," 2 Corinthians 5:10-11; Acts 2:36-47.
I give credit to my contributors, I, therefore: “Render to all their dues: tributes to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; and honor to whom honor, (is due),” Romans 13:7. I give thanks, and acknowledge my consultation with these distinguished authors in this lesson.
References:
1. Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Bible, by Matthew Henry, Christian Classics Ethereal Library, Grand Rapids, MI, 1706.
2. The People's New Testament, by B. W. Johnson, Christian Publishing Company, Grand Rapids, MI, 1891.
3. The New Greek-English Interlinear New Testament; United Bible Societies,’ Fourth, Corrected Edition, Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, IL, 1990.
4. Textus Receptus, taken from the Greek Text of Stephens 1550, The Englishman’s Greek New Testament, Zondervan Publishing House, Grand Rapids, Michigan, First Zondervan Printing, 1970.
5. Clarke Commentary on the Bible, Eight Volumes, Published 1810-1826, New York, Published by J. Emory and B. Waugh, for the Methodist Episcopal Church, at the conference office, 13 Crosby-Street., J. Collord, Printer, 1831.
6. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words, by W. E. Vine, Fleming H. Revell Company, Old Tappan, NJ, Copyright, 1981.
7. Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary © 2015 by Merriam-Webster, Incorporated; Springfield, Massachusetts, 01105.
8. Merriam-Webster Online Thesaurus © 2015 by Merriam-Webster, Incorporated; Springfield, Massachusetts, 01105.
9. Smith's Bible Dictionary, William Smith, Grand Rapids, MI: Christian Classics Ethereal Library, Printing 1884.
10. The Pastor’s Manual, by J. R. Hobbs, B & H Publishing Group, One Lifeway Plaza, Nashville, TN, 37234, Published, 1940.
11. The Standard Manual for Baptist Churches, by Edward T. Hiscox, D. D., American Baptist Publication Society, 1420–1422 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA, Published, June 1903.
12. How to be Born Again, by Billy Graham, Word Publishing, Dallas, Texas, Copyright 1977, 1989.
Websites mentioned in the lesson.
1--We thank Billy Graham for his dedication to undertake the work of World Evangelism. However, I'm saddened that he fell short in his efforts to declare the "whole counsel of God," Acts 20:27. Especially on his presentations of the necessity of baptism in the Christian faith. Click on the link below to read about his belief in baptism: https://billygraham.org/answer/is-baptism-necessary-for-salvation/
2--We thank Charles H. Spurgeon for his work and sermon on this biblical truth. See his entire message; and his belief on the point of, "faith and baptism" at https://godsbreath.net/2010/01/05/charles-spurgeon-about-baptism/
Ron Freeman, Evangelist
Worldwide Ministry Church of Christ.org
https://wwmchurchofchrist.org
Contact me at: wwmcoc@earthlink.net
ronald.e.freeman@wwmchurchofchrist.org
