The Conversion of an Influential Pharisee

Sermon Notes

In those three days, Paul:

1.  Changed his mind about Jesus. (Romans 1:1-4)
2.  Changed his mind about the Law. (Romans 3:19-20)
3.  Changed his mind about salvation. (Romans 6:23)
4.  Changed his mind about the church. (Acts 9:3-4, 1 Tim 1:12-15)
5.  Changed his mind about Gentiles. (Romans 1:1-5, Gal 3:28)

Follow-up Questions from Sunday:

Getting to Know You:

Who do you know that had a dramatic conversion experience?

Quick Review:
Looking back at your notes from this week’s teaching, was there anything you heard for the first time or that caught your attention, challenged, or confused you?

Digging Deeper:
  

1.  Read Acts 9:1-31.  Describe what happened in verses 3-9 from the viewpoint of one of Saul’s companions.
2.  How do you think you would feel if you were in Ananias’s place?  Have you ever tried to help God understand a situation like Ananias did?  Why do you think we do this with God sometimes? How do you think this makes God feel?
3.  What do you think is significant about the way Ananias addressed Saul?  How do you think that made Saul feel?
4.  Consider the influence of Saul/Paul in the Early Church. How many books did he write?  Look at the missionary journeys he took and the churches he planted and encouraged. Looking at our world today, who do you think are some of the most influential Christian leaders today?  Who has been the most influential person God has used in your spiritual journey and how do you think God has used you to influence others?

Taking it Home:

What is one thing you can apply to your life from this message and how can this group remember you in prayer this week?