How does Saul's mission to "Gentiles, kings, and Israelites" connect to the Great Commission? Setting the Scene Acts 9:15—“But the Lord said to him, ‘Go! This man is My chosen instrument to carry My name before Gentiles and kings and the sons of Israel.’” Saul’s Three-Fold Mandate • Gentiles • Kings • Israelites The Great Commission Framework Matthew 28:19-20—“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…” Mark 16:15—“Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.” Acts 1:8—“You will be My witnesses… to the ends of the earth.” Point-by-Point Connection • “Gentiles” ⇢ “all nations… every creature… ends of the earth.” – Paul embodies the outward thrust of the Commission, pioneering churches from Syria to Spain (Romans 15:19, 24). • “Kings” ⇢ “authorities… rulers” implicitly included in Christ’s universal claim, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me” (Matthew 28:18). – Paul preaches to Agrippa (Acts 26), Caesar’s household (Philippians 4:22), and governors Felix & Festus (Acts 24–25). • “Sons of Israel” ⇢ “beginning in Jerusalem” (Luke 24:47; Acts 1:8). – Paul first enters synagogues in every city (Acts 17:1-2), showing the gospel is “first for the Jew, then for the Greek” (Romans 1:16). Continuity with God’s Redemptive Plan • Genesis 12:3—blessing to “all families of the earth.” • Isaiah 49:6—“a light for the nations.” • Paul’s calling fulfills these promises and anchors the Great Commission in Scripture’s unified mission motif. Key Takeaways for Believers Today • One gospel, multiple audiences—adapt the message without altering its content (1 Corinthians 9:19-23). • Authority and assurance—Christ’s command carries His presence: “I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20). • Strategic obedience—Paul’s life urges intentional outreach across cultural, political, and religious boundaries. • Faithfulness to Israel—evangelism includes the Jewish people; God’s covenant purposes stand (Romans 11:28-29). Summary Saul’s divinely assigned mission mirrors the Great Commission’s scope: reaching every people group, every level of society, beginning with Israel and extending globally. His life proves the Commission is not abstract but lived out through surrendered servants empowered by the risen Christ. |
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