Faith without religion.
Paul’s Divine Transformation and Calling
In a recent teaching, we delved into the profound transformation of Paul, as recounted in Galatians 1:13-end. Paul emphasizes that his calling and understanding of the gospel were not influenced by human intervention but were direct revelations from Jesus Christ. This distinction is crucial as it underscores the divine origin of his mission and message.
Paul’s past as a fervent persecutor of the church highlights the radical change in his life. He was deeply entrenched in Jewish traditions, excelling beyond his peers, yet God had a different plan for him. This divine intervention is a testament to the idea that God often has purposes for individuals from birth, as seen in the lives of Jeremiah, John the Baptist, and even Paul himself.
The teaching also explored the concept of free will and predestination, pondering how our life choices and experiences shape our paths. Paul’s journey illustrates that even our past mistakes can be instrumental in fulfilling God’s purposes. His transformation from a persecutor to a preacher among the Gentiles exemplifies the power of grace and divine calling.
Paul’s decision to not confer with flesh and blood, including the apostles in Jerusalem, after his conversion, further emphasizes his unique mission. Instead, he went to Arabia, possibly to Mount Sinai, drawing a parallel to Moses’ encounter with God. This solitude allowed him to receive direct revelation, shaping his understanding and approach to spreading the gospel to the Gentiles.
In conclusion, Paul’s story is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of divine calling and grace. It challenges us to consider how our own experiences, both good and bad, are part of a larger divine plan, urging us to trust in God’s wisdom and timing.
