SCRIPTURE
Galatians 1:11-24
COMMENT
Paul claims that the gospel that he was preaching came directly from Jesus himself. But why believe him? I find at least two credible reasons. The first being, what did Paul have to gain in his conversion? Prior to the Damascus Road experience, Paul was on top of the world. A Jewish leader, perhaps in line to become High Priest someday. Educated, a Roman citizen, probably very well off. Conversion meant all of that would be gone, and that he would be shunned by the Jewish leaders as well as any family he had, a castoff, surrendering all possessions as well. (see Philippians 3:4-11)
The second reason is kind of mind blowing. Paul was a murderer of men, women, and children simply because they were Christians. He would now face that same fate from his former peers. I heard one preacher say it would be like seeing the conversion of Osama bin Ladin. Not only would his opponents mistrust him, but he would have to live in constant fear of retribution from his own peers. In fact, read verses 22-24. "And I was still unknown in person to the churches of Judea that are in Christ. They only were hearing it said, “He who used to persecute us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy.” And they glorified God because of me." I have never met Osama, but I know of his deeds. Had he suddenly turned a 180, I think it would be cause for consideration of why.
Paul says in verse 15 that he was set apart before he was born. I don't think God had a plan B. I don't believe that God had someone else waiting in the wings if Paul had refused. You can debate whether or not Paul had a choice in the matter, but Paul was God's man, and he would get the job done. There was no understudy. Called by God's grace, it says that God was pleased to reveal his Son to Paul. Think about that for a moment. A murderous sinner who violently pursued those who loved God, and God was pleased to reveal Jesus to him. It brought God joy. How can you not love a God whose grace is so abundant?
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