His-Story Vol 2, Ch 5: The Life and Letters of Paul, Part 1

Sermon Notes

HIS-STORY: The Bible in 18 Weeks

Volume II: The Old Testament Story

Chapter 5: The Life and Letters of Paul: Part 1

1. Who was Paul (Saul)?

      a. A “Hebrew of Hebrews”

      b. A Pharisee

      c. Passionate persecutor of the Church

      d. Hellenistic background and education

      e. A Roman citizen

2. Saul’s Persecution and Conversion

      a. His role in the stoning of Stephen (Acts 7)

      b. His campaign against Christians (Acts 8)

      c. Damascus Road experience (Acts 9)

      d. Early Ministry (Acts 11–12)

3. Journeys and Letters of Paul

The Unstoppable “G.E.A.R.s” of the Gospel: Galatia, Europe, Asia, Rome

      a. 1st Missionary Journey: The Gospel to Galatia

·      Churches started in Antioch Pisidia, Iconium, Lystra, Derbe

·      Galatians (ca AD 49). Theme: Going against Legalism

      b. 2nd Missionary Journey: The Gospel to Europe (Macedonia & Achaia)

·      Churches started in Philippi, Thessalonica, Berea, Athens, Corinth

·      1 Thessalonians (ca AD 52). Theme: Encouragement for a Thriving Church

·      2 Thessalonians (ca AD 52). Theme: Instruction on the 2nd Coming

      c. 3rd Missionary Journey: The Gospel to Asia

·      Churches started in Ephesus and throughout Asia Minor

·      1 Corinthians (ca AD 56). Theme: Correction for an Immature Church

·      2 Corinthians (ca AD 57). Theme: 2nd Chance for a Corrected Church

·      Romans (ca 57 AD)

Study/Discussion Questions:

1. In what ways was Paul uniquely prepared to be the Apostle to the Gentiles?

2. How did Paul’s passion for his own Jewish faith result in persecution of the Christians?

3. Can you recall the reason for writing and the central theme of Paul’s letter to the Galatians? 1 Thessalonians? 2 Thessalonians? 1 Corinthians? 2 Corinthians?

4. In what ways is Paul’s faith and perseverance a good model for us?

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