How can we ensure our zeal aligns with God's will, unlike Paul's past actions? Paul’s Past Zeal Exposed “ ‘And that is what I did in Jerusalem. With the authority I received from the chief priests, I put many of the saints in prison, and when they were condemned to death, I cast my vote against them.’ ” (Acts 26:10) • Paul’s intensity was real, yet misdirected. • He believed he was honoring God, but he was opposing God’s people and God’s plan. Anchor Zeal in the Written Word • Scripture is God-breathed, fully trustworthy, and the final test of every impulse (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105) • Anything that contradicts or stretches Scripture is counterfeit zeal, no matter how passionate. Submit Zeal to Christ’s Lordship • “I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.” (Galatians 2:20) • Zeal that flows from self leads to damage; zeal that flows from Christ produces life. • Daily surrender keeps motives pure and guards against crusading for personal agendas. Depend on the Holy Spirit • “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” (Galatians 5:16) • True zeal is Spirit-given (Acts 1:8). • The Spirit never drives us to act contrary to love, truth, or order (1 Corinthians 14:33). Maintain a Teachable Spirit • Paul humbled himself when Jesus confronted him (Acts 9:5-6). • “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” (Proverbs 3:5). • A teachable heart listens to correction from Scripture and fellow believers (Acts 18:26). Seek Godly Counsel • “Where there is no guidance, a people fall, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” (Proverbs 11:14). • Elders, mature friends, and sound teachers help test ideas before action. • Paul’s post-conversion ministry was affirmed by the Jerusalem apostles (Galatians 2:9). Evaluate the Fruit • “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace…” (Galatians 5:22-23). • Zeal that leaves division, bitterness, or confusion is suspect (James 3:14-18). • God-honoring zeal builds up the church and advances the gospel in love and clarity (Ephesians 4:15-16). Keep Love Central • “If I have all faith so as to move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing.” (1 Corinthians 13:2). • Paul’s corrected zeal poured itself out in sacrificial service (2 Corinthians 11:23-28). • Love safeguards zeal from becoming harsh, proud, or abusive. Practical Next Steps • Schedule unhurried daily Scripture intake; let the Word set your agenda. • Pray through plans, specifically yielding them to Christ’s authority. • Invite a trusted believer to speak candidly into your passions and decisions. • Pause to assess fruit: Is love increasing? Are others edified? Is Christ magnified? • Adjust immediately when Scripture, Spirit, or counsel flags a wrong direction. |
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