Experience: Inner Life of Paul #2 - A man in Christ
In this message, Christian reflects on the life of Paul, particularly focusing on his inner life and spiritual development. He begins by discussing Paul's dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus, emphasizing that this event marked the entrance into a new life in Christ. Christian highlights the importance of understanding Paul's position "in Christ," which serves as both the starting point and ultimate goal of his spiritual journey. He notes that Paul's life can be divided into three stages, each marked by significant writings that reveal his growth and understanding of Christ's life within him. Christian emphasizes that Paul's life is not one of personal achievement but rather a manifestation of Christ living through him. He outlines four major lessons from Paul's early life: living a life dependent on Christ, relying on the body of believers, imitating the anointed one (Christ), and aspiring to live a life that reflects heavenly values. Christian encourages believers to recognize their own spiritual journey, emphasizing that every conversion is a miracle and that growth in faith requires both individual devotion and community support.
Outline of Main Points
- Introduction to Paul's life and inner development
- Significance of Paul's conversion on the road to Damascus
- Understanding "in Christ" as both position and goal
- Three stages of Paul's life and writings
- Four major lessons from Paul's early life:
- Living a life dependent on Christ
- Relying on the body of believers
- Imitating the anointed one (Christ)
- Aspiring to reflect heavenly values
- Encouragement for believers to recognize their spiritual journey
2 I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) such an one caught up to the third heaven. 3 And I knew such a man, (whether in the body, or out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) 4 How that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter.
