How can Paul's past actions in Acts 26:9 inspire our personal testimonies? Paul’s Transparent Admission—Acts 26:9 “ ‘So then, I too was convinced that I ought to do all that was possible to oppose the name of Jesus of Nazareth.’ ” • Paul openly recounts his determined hostility toward Christ. • He does not soften or excuse his former sin; he lays it bare as part of his witness. Testimony Principle #1: Honesty About Former Opposition • Like Paul, we acknowledge who we were before Christ—without glossing over the truth. • Psalm 51:13: “Then I will teach transgressors Your ways, and sinners will return to You.” • Authenticity invites listeners to see God’s work, not our self-improvement. Testimony Principle #2: Grace Greater Than Our Sin • 1 Timothy 1:13-16—Paul calls himself “formerly a blasphemer and a persecutor… Yet I was shown mercy.” • Emphasizing God’s mercy highlights the gospel’s power, assuring others no past is beyond redemption. • Ephesians 2:4-7 reminds us we were “dead in our trespasses” but are now “raised up with Him.” Testimony Principle #3: Zeal Redirected to Christ • Paul’s intense energy once fueled persecution; after conversion it fueled evangelism (Acts 26:19-20). • Philippians 3:6-7 shows Paul trading self-righteous zeal for Christ’s surpassing worth. • Our personalities and passions need not change—only their direction. Testimony Principle #4: God Uses Our Story for Others’ Salvation • Acts 26:22—“I have had God’s help to this day, and I stand here and testify…” • 2 Corinthians 1:3-4: comfort received becomes comfort shared. • Your past becomes a bridge to people who feel unreachable. Practical Steps for Shaping Your Testimony • Identify: Write out who you were “convinced” to be before Christ—habits, beliefs, attitudes. • Highlight Grace: Note the specific moments where the Lord intervened. • Redirect: List ways God now channels the same energy, skills, or background for kingdom purposes. • Share Naturally: Fold pieces of your story into everyday conversation—short, clear, Christ-centered. Key Verses to Meditate On Paul’s candid confession in Acts 26:9 shows that past failures, when surrendered to Jesus, become powerful instruments for present testimony. |
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