Lesson 7: Heartwarming Comfort Soup

The Story of Paul

Bible Scripture Reference: Acts 22:1-23

Message

A British Christian named A.T. Pierson once said, "To trust God does not mean that you will never be afraid of anything. On the contrary, the things you fear may well come to pass, but because you trust in God's help, these things will ultimately become less terrifying."

Paul, the one who endured much suffering.

Paul was clever and capable. When he was brought before the Roman commander by the Jews in the temple, he defended himself and recalled his past mistakes and the instructions he received from the Lord. In that moment, Paul likely felt a mixture of remorse, gratitude, and perhaps a sense of injustice. However, he firmly believed that when he completed this defense, he would once again confirm that he was following the one true Lord.

After his conversion, Paul spent a significant amount of time traveling. To the people of his time, it seemed as though he had journeyed to every corner of the world, visiting the most famous countries and bustling cities. However, he often found himself in trouble among the Jewish community, and he was frequently imprisoned and faced the threat of execution.

Why could Paul endure such an unstable and perilous life? It was because throughout his life's journey following the Lord, Jesus had become his source of comfort and support. He knew that these challenges were not as frightening as they may have seemed. Paul wasn't concerned about his own well-being; his focus was on ensuring the continued spread of the good news of Jesus' salvation. He was not afraid of being imprisoned because he knew that his circumstances were not the most important thing; what truly mattered was the needs of others. Paul cared deeply for the needs of everyone because he understood that our loving Heavenly Father was greater than any suffering. Even in the face of life-threatening situations, there was no need to fear, for we already possessed eternal life in God's presence.

God is our refuge in times of trouble.

Paul's faith was indeed immense. He understood that everyone is imperfect, and in the face of challenges, he centered his thoughts on Jesus Christ, who is the center of the universe. He recognized that life's difficulties are temporary and insignificant compared to Christ. The God we know, the same God Paul followed and trusted throughout his life, is the same God.

When we face various fears in life, including family disputes, loss of loved ones, not achieving desired accomplishments, or failing to get into the ideal school, we often mistakenly believe that we must handle these things perfectly to attain a good life. Reflecting on the God Paul trusted in, a God whose wisdom far surpasses our own, we can find comfort. He prepares the courage, love, and strength we need, even when we are imperfect. As long as we follow Him, there's no need to worry, because, regardless of what happens, He will guide us through a profound and beautiful life.

Approach

• Read the Bible with students or refer to adapted Bible story content.
• Use worksheets to guide students in identifying the emotions of the events and characters in the story.
• Share insights and engage in discussions with students about the issues faced by the characters in the story and how they can bring about change.
• Conclude with a prayer.

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Worksheet

Bible Story - Paul

Story Adaptation from Acts 22:1-23

This is the story of a man who went from persecuting Jesus' disciples to becoming the one who spread the gospel of Jesus to the world. After deciding to change, life didn't become easier for him. Instead, he had to leave his hometown and travel extensively. He faced trouble several times and was thrown into prison.

Let's take a look at an excerpt from Paul's experiences and self-reflection and consider how he managed to persevere.

Paul was arrested in the temple and brought before the Roman commander. He spoke in Hebrew to the Jewish people, defending himself. Paul said, "I am a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but brought up in this city. I was educated at the feet of Gamaliel in the strict manner of the law of our fathers, being zealous for God, as all of you are this day. I persecuted this Way to the death, binding and delivering to prison both men and women, as the high priest and the whole council of elders can bear me witness."

Paul went on to describe his encounter with the Lord.

"As I was on my way and drew near to Damascus, about noon, a great light from heaven suddenly shone around me. I fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to me, 'Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?' I answered, 'Who are you, Lord?' And he said to me, 'I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom you are persecuting.' Now those who were with me saw the light but did not understand the voice of the one who was speaking to me."

"I said, 'What shall I do, Lord?' And the Lord said to me, 'Rise, go into Damascus, and there you will be told all that is appointed for you to do.' And since I could not see because of the brightness of that light, I was led by the hand by those who were with me and came into Damascus.

And one Ananias, a devout man according to the law, well spoken of by all the Jews who lived there, came to me, and standing by me, said to me, 'Brother Saul, receive your sight.' And at that very hour I received my sight and saw him. And he said, 'The God of our fathers appointed you to know his will, to see the Righteous One and to hear a voice from his mouth; for you will be a witness for him to everyone of what you have seen and heard. And now why do you wait? Rise and be baptized and wash away your sins, calling on his name.'

"When I returned to Jerusalem and was praying in the temple, I fell into a trance and saw him saying to me, 'Make haste and get out of Jerusalem quickly because they will not accept your testimony about me.' And I said, 'Lord, they themselves know that in one synagogue after another I imprisoned and beat those who believed in you. And when the blood of Stephen your witness was being shed, I myself was standing by and approving and watching over the garments of those who killed him.' And he said to me, 'Go, for I will send you far away to the Gentiles.'

"They listened to him up to this word. Then they raised their voices and said, 'Away with such a fellow from the earth! For he should not be allowed to live.' And as they were shouting and throwing off their cloaks and flinging dust into the air."

Questions and Discussion

(You can refer to the Emotion Traits Chart or Emotion Vocabulary Cards)

1. When Paul realized that he had been persecuting the Lord's disciples all along, what emotions did he probably have?
2. Why do you think Paul didn't care about the accusations of the Jews and defended himself in front of the people?
3. When you are opposed or falsely accused by others, what emotions might you experience?
4. Continuing from the previous question, use the techniques we've learned earlier, like the I-Statements or thought transformation chart, to change your thoughts.

Let's pray together

Consider what matters to us when we face opposition or difficulties. Do we only care about our own well-being or losses without paying attention to the truth or the needs of others? When Paul encountered the Lord Jesus and received His command, nothing in this world mattered more to him than caring for people and spreading the gospel for the Lord. Let's pray for the ability to meet Him, to know Him, and to have Jesus as our strength and guidance when we face adversity and hardship.