What challenges did Saul face when "speaking boldly in the name of the Lord"? Background of the Passage Acts 9:26-31 records Saul’s first visit to Jerusalem after his conversion. The brothers are wary of him, Barnabas introduces him to the apostles, and Saul quickly launches into public ministry. Key Verse “So Saul stayed with them, moving about freely in Jerusalem, and speaking boldly in the name of the Lord. He talked and debated with the Hellenistic Jews, but they tried to kill him.” Immediate Obstacles • Suspicion from believers (v. 26): the Jerusalem disciples “were all afraid of him, not believing that he really was a disciple.” • Targeted by hostile Jews (v. 29): the Hellenists—Greek-speaking Jews—“tried to kill him.” • Forced relocation (v. 30): the brothers “took him down to Caesarea and sent him off to Tarsus,” removing him from the hot zone. Wider Spiritual Opposition • Religious jealousy (Acts 13:45). • Plots, imprisonments, beatings (2 Corinthians 11:23-26). • Satanic resistance to gospel advance (Ephesians 6:12). Personal Costs • Loss of former status and friendships (Philippians 3:7-8). • Continual danger: “I die every day” (1 Corinthians 15:31). • Physical hardship, sleepless nights, hunger, and cold (2 Corinthians 11:27). How God Sustained Saul • Barnabas’s advocacy (Acts 9:27) shows God providing loyal partners. • Holy Spirit boldness promised in Acts 1:8 is already operating. • The church’s protection (Acts 9:30) illustrates corporate care. • Divine assurance of future ministry (Acts 22:21). Lessons for Today • Bold witness draws both fruit and opposition (2 Timothy 3:12). • God often uses fellow believers to open doors and shield us. • Hostility can be a sign we are on the right track—keep speaking. • Relocation or strategic retreat may be God’s means of preserving His servant for wider work (Acts 22:17-21). |
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