Paul’s Final Days

Paul, the Reformer

• Gentiles, women, slaves– “Neither Jew nor Greek, male nor

female, bond or free”

• Gospel according to Jesus Christ– Romans 1:16– Crucified and risen

Paul, the Reformer

• What are people converting to?– Judaism, person, or Christ?–What they convert limits growth!– Paul – converts to Christ

Paul, the Reformer

• Lifestyle changes– “some of you were. . .” – 1 Cor 6:11– “You were washed . . .– You were sanctified . . .– You were justified . . .”

Paul, the Reformer

• Transformation– “Be transformed by the renewing of

your mind” – Rom 12:2–Moves us into maturity

When the Spirit Says Go and the People Say No

• Paul receives directives:– “you will be told what you must do”– “come over to Macedonia” (16:9)– “must bear witness in Rome” (23:11)

When the Spirit Says Go and the People Say No

• “Paul purposed in the Spirit” – Acts 19:21 (Jerusalem / Rome)

• Prophetic words–Warning, preparation or direction– Edification, exhortation or comfort

God’s Story

• Take the gospel “to the uttermost”• Paul moved to the gentiles

Their Story

• The gospel according to . . . who?• Paul – Christ crucified and risen

Our Story

• Called to preach the gospel• Sent into all the world