What lessons about humility can we learn from Paul's escape in Damascus? The Setting in Damascus “In Damascus the governor under King Aretas secured the city of the Damascenes in order to arrest me.” (2 Corinthians 11:32) Acts 9:23-25 fills in the details: enemies were watching the gates day and night, so fellow believers “took him by night and lowered him in a basket through an opening in the wall.” What Makes the Story Humbling? - Paul had just begun public ministry. Instead of a triumphant parade, he is hurried out in a basket, hidden in darkness. - The mighty apostle, once feared as Saul the persecutor, now depends on unnamed helpers for survival. - His “escape plan” is passive; he doesn’t fight back or call down miracles—he submits to a simple, even embarrassing, method. - Years later he retells the event in 2 Corinthians 11 not as an adventure highlight but as the capstone of a list of weaknesses. A Humble Exit: Key Observations 1. Recognition of weakness • “Therefore I will boast all the more gladly in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest on me.” (2 Corinthians 12:9) • The basket episode becomes an illustration that power belongs to God, not to Paul. 2. Dependence on the body of Christ • He needed brothers willing to risk their own safety. • Galatians 6:2: “Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” 3. Willingness to be insignificant • No reputation management; he accepts an exit more fitting for contraband than an apostle. • Philippians 2:7: Christ “emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant.” 4. Obedience over image • God’s plan sometimes means leaving quietly rather than winning loudly. • Proverbs 3:34: “He mocks the mockers but gives grace to the humble.” Lessons for Us Today • Embrace small, hidden ways God protects and advances His purpose. • Let others help; humility invites partnership. • Measure ministry not by applause but by obedience and faithfulness. • Celebrate weaknesses as stages for Christ’s strength. • Remember that God can use ordinary means—ropes, baskets, back doors—to accomplish extraordinary plans. Supporting Scriptures - James 4:6: “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” - 1 Corinthians 1:27-29: “God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise…so that no one may boast in His presence.” - Psalm 34:2: “My soul will boast in the LORD; let the oppressed hear and rejoice.” Walking It Out Ask God to highlight any area where reputation, self-reliance, or comfort is resisting humble obedience. Then step into the “basket moments” He provides—quiet acts of trust where His power, not ours, gets the spotlight. |
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