In His Name

(3-20-05)

Acts 9:10-19

 

          Saul of Tarsus was called by our Lord Jesus to suffer for Jesus’ name sake. What has Jesus called you to His kingdom for? Saul accepted the calling of the Lord and became the beloved Apostle Paul. Did he receive all that Jesus said he would receive? Did Paul carry Jesus’ name before the Gentiles? Did he carry His name before their Kings? Did he carry His name before the people of Israel?

          There are other things as well – He was given his sight back and he was given the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Did Saul who became Paul accomplish what he was called to accomplish for Jesus and His Kingdom?  Did Paul suffer for the sake of Jesus name like Ananias was told? Every bit of what Ananias and Saul were told was accomplished.

          What makes this a success story? I think a combination of two things brought success for Paul and the same two things can and will bring success for you. Those two things are willingness and commitment.

          Jesus’ call to Saul was an invitation to change sides. Saul was asked to serve Jesus as Lord rather than fight against Him. Saul saw the wisdom of that choice and chose to change sides thus he became Paul. Saul was willing to serve Jesus and the calling to which he was called.

          Saul as Paul was willing and in his willingness, committed to finish what he was called to accomplish for Jesus and His Kingdom, regardless of the personal cost. Paul was committed even if it meant dying in the attempt.

          What about you? How goes the journey? You might be saying to yourself: ‘That was Paul’s lot in life, but how does that equal or compare to mine?’

          Lest see if there are some equal points of comparison  between Saul\Paul and each of us. Was Saul living in rebellion against God and against Jesus? _______ Where (are) you living in an equal state of rebellion against God and against Jesus? _______  Here is a truth worth grasping, all of humanity is condemned as sinners. (Rom.3:23, 5:12) You are included in that all. Each of us as sinners stands equal to Saul of Tarsus.  

          Was Saul called by Jesus to become one of His servants? ______  Have you been called by Jesus to be His servant? _______  I know that the Damascus road experience was not typical but the method or means of a call doesn’t change it into not being a calling from Jesus. Lets put it this way, if you have not been called, then what ever you are it is not saved or Christian because to be qualified to wear the name of Christ you must be called.

          As far as Saul’s and your lives are concerned before God they are equal. I am willing to believe that Paul’s entrance into Heaven was met by these words – “ Well done good and faithful servant, come in and take your rest.”

          Two things stand to make the difference between your life and Paul’s life. Your willingness to cross over from rebellion into service to Jesus and His Kingdom and your commitment to stay the course to the journeys end are what will be the cause for an equal reception in Heaven.

          Jesus is worthy of your service and His Kingdom worth the labor of your hands. Willing and Committed!