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 When
converted, "straightway he preached Christ in the
synagogues, that he is the Son of God" (Acts 9: 20). He
"increased in strength, and confounded the Jews" (v.
22); so they sought to kill him (v.23). How's that for a
beginning?
He
and Barnabas "had no small dissention and disputation"
with Judaizing teachers (15:2); and when he went to Jerusalem
about this matter he stood his ground against "those who
seemed to be somewhat" (Gal. 2:1-10). Shortly thereafter he
"withstood (Peter) to the face, because he was to be
blamed" (v. 11). In a matter of judgment his contention
with Barnabas about John Mark was so sharp "they departed
asunder" (Acts 15:37-f), although this did not hinder his
regard for them both as saints (1 Cor. 9:6; 2 Tim. 4:11).
There's a man for you. His spirit was "stirred" by
idolatry, and he "disputed" with his adversaries (Acts
17:16-17). Yet, he retained a sense of propriety, and at times
he ceased to plea, saying, "Your blood be upon your own
heads" (18:6; 28:2428). He shows us one may be intent and
firm without losing balance.
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Paul
was an independent man with a strong sense of justice. He
refused to leave prison quietly, but said, "They have
beaten us openly uncondemned ... let them ... fetch us out"
(Acts 16:37). He labored with his own hands to support himself
(20:33), yet strongly argued his right to be sup ported by
others (1 Cor. 9:6-f). He did not hesitate to claim and use
legal protection (Acts 22:25; 25:9-11), and spoke sharply
against an abuse of law (23:3), while showing respect for the
"office" of dignities (23:5). On one occasion he seems
to have used a "debate" trick to divide the opposition
(23:6); but later acknowledges this may have been out of line
(24:20-21). He spoke the truth without compromise or fear, as is
seen from his sermon before Felix (Acts 24:24-f). Paul comes
through as a rugged individual, with strong convictions and deep
sense of purpose. But he leaned on a source of strength greater
than his own. "Be not afraid, but speak;" "My
grace is sufficient for thee" (18: 9-11; 2 Cor. 12:7-9). If
the apostle Paul needed these encouragements, Oh Lord, in thy
way, what about me??
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