CAC Sunday School Manual For September 21, 2025 : Lesson 35 : Title - PAUL UNDER GODLY INFLUENCES

CAC Sunday School Manual For September 21, 2025 : Lesson 35 : Title - PAUL UNDER GODLY INFLUENCES

CHRIST APOSTOLIC CHURCH Nigeria And Overseas

SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON PREVIEW CLASS

Theme : PREPARING GOD'S PEOPLE for LEADERSHIP* 

 JANUARY TO DECEMBER, 2025

 SEPT. 21, 2025.

 

LESSON 35

 Unit 5: Leadership Preparation In The New Testament (II)

 Topic: PAUL UNDER GODLY INFLUENCES

Memory Scripture

But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother's womb and called me through His grace (Galatians 1:15). 

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 BRIEF COMMENT 

1:15 Because God was guiding his ministry, Paul wasn't doing anything that God hadn't already planned and given him power to do. Similarly, God appointed Jeremiah to be his spokes- man even before Jeremiah was born (Jeremiah 1:5). God knows you intimately as well, and he chose you to be his even before you were born (Psalm 139). He wants you to draw close to him and to fulfill the purpose he has for your life.

Paul's leadership journey was shaped by diverse experiences, encounters with Christ, mentorship and commitment to spreading the Gospel to show the power of preparation and dedication in shaping impactful leaders.

TAKE NOTE AND SHARE THIS POINT

One of the biggest lesson I actually learned from Apostle Paul (who was once a persecutor of the church) was that after having an encounter with Jesus Christ on his was to Damascus, he never return to his old life again or try to modernized his wickedness unlike many prophet, evangelist, pastors and many ministers (generally) who are still using their old spiritual power to operating the ministry even after claiming they have surrendered all because of Christ! Herbalist Pastor, Bishop, Prophet/Prophetess etc. they are still operating from spiritual realm in the name of *Ìṣẹ́ woli* despite all the true and powerful teaching and preaching from the Authority. 

Many ministers have been attending Annual Pastors' National Conferences for years, still they refuse to surrender all their old life because of Christ. What is the essence of attending the conference that your church member can't even see any positive change in your life?

 Apostle Paul left all and never returned to it. What about you? Asking members to bring coconut, orange, broom cutlass, old and new clothes, left side shoe, sand etc for prayers in the name of "Thou says the Lord!" is it truly God's instructions or you're still pretending and acting on your old lifestyle of making money?

BRIEF COMMENT

In the preceding verses of our Memory Scripture, Apostle Paul reiterated his former life; persecuting the Church (v. 13), legalism and traditionalism (v. 14). He also narrated his conversion experience which was characterised by the prerogative of God, his separation from his mother's womb and his calling by grace. Every leader must have these experiences: a separation from the world, and a separation unto God. Irrespective of the calling, these are the basis for effective leadership.

 

Our DEVOTIONAL THOUGHTS Stated that:

 1. Leadership preparation involves both vertical (God) and horizontal (human) influences.

 2. God has strategically placed some persons along our paths for direct and indirect preparation. Identify them and be submissive.

BACKGROUND SCRIPTURE: Acts 7:54-58

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 BRIEF COMMENT

7:55-58 Stephen saw the glory of God and Jesus, the Messiah, standing at God's right hand. Stephen's words are similar to Jesus' words spoken before the high council (Matthew 26:64; Mark 14:62; Luke 22:69). Stephen's vision supported Jesus' claim and angered the Jewish leaders who had condemned Jesus to death for blasphemy. They would not tolerate Stephen's words, so they dragged him out and killed him. People may not kill us for witnessing about Christ, but they may let us know they don't want to hear the truth and try to silence us. Keep honoring God in your conduct and words; though many may turn against you and your message, some will follow Christ. Remember, Stephen's death had a profound impact on Paul, who later became the world's greatest missionary. Even those who oppose you now may later turn to Christ. 

7:58 Saul is also called Paul (see 13:9), the great missionary who wrote many of the letters in the New Testament. Saul was his Hebrew name; Paul, his Greek name, was used as he began his ministry to the Gentiles. When Luke introduces him, Paul was going everywhere persecuting Jesus' followers. This is in great contrast to the Paul about whom Luke wrote for most of the book of Acts, describing him as a devoted follower of Christ and a gifted preacher. Paul was uniquely qualified to talk to the Jews about Jesus because he had once persecuted those who believed in him and understood how the opposition felt. Paul is a powerful example of a person who was thought impossible for God to reach and change. 

AIM: To show the influences that prepared Paul for leadership.

 SHORT STORY OF PAUL

No person, apart from Jesus himself, shaped the history of Christianity like the apostle Paul. Even before he was a believer, his actions were significant. His frenzied persecution of Christians following Stephen's death got the church started in obeying Christ's final command to take the gospel worldwide. Paul's personal encounter with Jesus changed his life. He never lost his fierce intensity, but from then on it was channeled for the gospel. 

Paul was very religious. His training under Gamaliel was the finest available. His intentions and efforts were sincere. He was a good Pharisee who knew the Bible and sincerely believed that this Christian movement was dangerous to Judaism. Thus, Paul hated the Christian faith and persecuted Christians without mercy. 

Paul got permission to travel to Damascus to capture Christians and bring them back to Jerusalem. But God stopped him in his hurried tracks on the Damascus road. Paul personally met Jesus Christ, and his life was never the same. 

Until Paul's conversion, little had been done about carrying the gospel to non-Jews. Philip had preached in Samaria and to an Ethiopian man; Cornelius, a Gentile, was converted under Peter, and in Antioch of Syria, some Greeks had joined the believers. When Barnabas was sent from Jerusalem to check on this situation, he went to Tarsus to find Paul and bring him to Antioch, and together they worked among the believers there. They were then sent on a missionary journey, the first of three Paul would take that would carry the gospel across the Roman Empire,  

The thorny issue of whether Gentile believers had to obey Jewish laws before they could become Christians caused many problems in the early church. Paul worked hard to convince the Jews that Gentiles were acceptable to God, but he spent even more time convincing the Gentiles that they were acceptable to God. The lives Paul touched were changed and chal- lenged by meeting Christ through him.

God did not waste any part of Paul-his background, his training, his citizenship, his mind, or even his weaknesses. Are you willing to let God do the same for you? You will never know all he can do with you until you allow him to have all that you are!  

 *Strengths and accomplishments* 

* Transformed by God from a persecutor of Christians to a preacher for Christ 

* Preached for Christ throughout the Roman Empire on three missionary journeys 

* Wrote letters to various churches, which became part of the New Testament 

* Was never afraid to face an issue head-on and deal with it 

* Was sensitive to God's leading and, despite his strong personality, always did as God directed 

* Is often called the apostle to the Gentiles 

 *Weaknesses and mistakes* 

* Witnessed and approved of Stephen's stoning 

* Set out to destroy Christianity by persecuting Christians 

 *Lesson from his life* 

* The Good News is that forgiveness and eternal life are available to all people and are gifts of God's grace through faith in Christ 

* Obedience results from a relationship with God, but obedience will never create or earn that relationship 

* Real freedom doesn't come until we no longer have to prove our freedom  

* God does not waste our time, he will use our past and present so we may serve him with our future 

 *Vital statistics* 

* *Where:* Born in Tarsus but became a world traveler for Christ 

* *Occupations:* Trained as a Pharisee, learned the tentmaking trade, served as a missionary 

* *Contemporaries:* Gamaliel, Stephen, the apostles, Luke, Barnabas, Timothy

 *Key verses*  

 "For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better. But if I live, I can do more fruitful work for Christ. So I really don't know which is better. I'm torn between two desires: I long to go and be with Christ, which would be far better for me. But for your sakes, it is better that I continue to live" (Philippians 1:21-24). 

Paul's story is told in Acts 7:58-28:31 and throughout his New Testament letters.

 *INTRODUCTION* 

 *TEXTUAL SOURCE: Acts 8:1-3; 9:1-30; 13:1-3; 18:5; 22:3; Galatians 1:11-18* 

This week's lesson focuses on a man who didn't have the privilege of meeting Jesus person like Judas Iscariot and the rich young ruler, yet his impact remains unparalleled. The role of Apostle Paul in the New Testament and the Early Church is profound and enduring. His life and teachings continue to be relevant today. How then was he prepared for this significant assignment? Our lesson for this week provides insight into this question.

 *LESSON OUTLINE* 

 *I. THE GOD-FACTOR* 

 *II. THE HUMAN AGENTS*

 *LESSON EXPOSITION* 

 *I. THE GOD-FACTOR (Acts 8:1-3; 9:1-25; 13:1-3; Gal. 1:11-17)* 

And he said, "Who are You, Lord?" Then the Lord said, "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for you to kick against the goads" (Acts 9:5). 

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Saul thought he was pursuing heretics, but he was persecuting Jesus himself. Anyone who persecutes believers today is also guilty of persecuting Jesus (see Matthew 25:40, 45) because believers are the body of Christ on earth.

Some church members are still acting as if they are not one of them. They are big problem to the church. Even their pastors knows any time they come around there will be a big problem on that day. Are you bringing peace or persecuting the Church?

 a) Acts 8:1,3: Paul, before his conversion, was a great threat to the Church.

 b) 9:1-9: Meeting Jesus on Paul's journey to Damascus was a life- changing experience (cf. Gal. 1:15), showing that true leadership requires a connection with the Lord and the transformative power of encountering the divine light and seeking communion with God. 

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9:1ff Saul (later called Paul) was so zealous for his Jewish beliefs that he began a persecution campaign against anyone who believed in Christ ("followers of the Way"). Why would the Jews in Jerusalem want to persecute Christians as far away as Damascus? There are several possibilities: (1) to seize the Christians who had fled, (2) to prevent the spread of Christianity to other major cities, (3) to keep the Christians from causing any trouble with Rome, (4) to advance Saul's career and build his reputation as a true Pharisee, zealous for the law, (5) to unify the factions of Judaism by giving them a common enemy. 

9:2-5 As Saul traveled to Damascus, pursuing Christians, he was confronted by the risen Christ and brought face to face with the truth of the Good News. Sometimes God breaks into a life in a spectacular manner, and sometimes conversion is a quiet experience. Beware of people who insist that you must have a particular type of conversion experience. The right way to come to faith in Jesus is whatever way God brings you. 

9:3 Damascus, a key commercial city, was located about 150 miles northeast of Jerusalem in the Roman province of Syria. Several trade routes linked Damascus to other cities throughout the Roman world. Saul may have thought that by stamping out Christianity in Damascus, he could prevent its spread to other areas. 

9:3-5 Paul refers to this experience as the start of his new life in Christ (1 Corinthians 9:1; 15:8; Galatians 1:15, 16). At the center of this wonderful experience was Jesus Christ. Paul did not see a vision; he saw the risen Christ himself (9:17). Paul acknowledged Jesus as Lord, confessed his own sin, surrendered his life to Christ, and resolved to obey him. True conversion comes from a personal encounter with Jesus Christ and leads to a new life in relationship with him.

 c) vv. 1ff: The encounter transformed him and led to his divine commissioning for the ministry, marking the beginning of his leadership journey. 

d) vv. 6,11-12,18: Paul's experiences of prayer and baptism show the import of spiritual practices in leadership preparation. Divine intervention and obedience are a must in leadership journey.

 e) vv. 20-22: God supernaturally empowered Paul with boldness in preaching, enabling him to fearlessly proclaim the gospel and lead with authority. 

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9:20 Immediately after receiving his sight and spending some time with the believers in Damascus, Saul went to the synagogue to tell the Jews about Jesus Christ. Some Christians counsel new believers to wait until they are thoroughly grounded in their faith before attempting to share the Good News. Saul spent time with other believers to learn about Jesus before beginning his worldwide ministry, but he did not wait to witness. Although we should not rush into a ministry unprepared, we do not need to wait before telling others what has happened to us. 

9:21, 22 Saul's arguments were powerful because he was a brilliant scholar. Even more convincing, however, was his changed life. People knew that what Saul taught was real because they could see the evidence in the way he lived. It is important to know what the Bible teaches and how to defend the faith, but your life should back up your words.

 f) Gal. 1:11-17: God taught Paul important things while he was in Arabia, getting him ready to be a good leader in ministry.

 g) Acts 9:23-25; 13:1-3: God's protection and guidance enhanced Paul's leadership by ensuring his safety and directing his missionary efforts effectively (cf. 2 Cor. 11:24-27; 2 Tim. 3:16-17). 

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9:23 According to Galatians 1:17, 18, Paul left Damascus and traveled to Arabia, the desert region just southeast of Damascus, where he lived for three years. It is unclear whether his three-year stay occurred between verses 22 and 23 or between verses 25 and 26. Some commentators say that "after a while" could mean a long period of time. They suggest that when Paul returned to Damascus, the governor under Aretas ordered his arrest (2 Corin thians 11:32) in an effort to keep peace with influential Jews. 

The other possibility is that Paul's night escape occurred during his first stay in Damascus, just after his conversion, wher the Pharisees were especially upset over his defection from their ranks. He would have fled to Arabia to spend time alone with God and to let the Jewish religious leaders cool down. Regardless of which theory is correct, there was a period of at least three years between Paul's conversion (9:3-6) and his trip to Jerusalem (9:26).

 h) The place of God in the preparation of any of His ministers as well as leaders of His people cannot be overemphasised. He worked on Paul through different experiences to prepare him for his leadership roles.

 *II. THE HUMAN AGENTS (Acts 9:10-30; 13:1-3; 18:5; 22:3; Gal. 1:18)* 

Then the Lord said to him, "Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do" (Acts 9:6).

 a) Acts 9:10-17: Ananias's obedience to God's instruction played a crucial role in Paul's preparation for leadership. Through Ananias, Paul received the Holy Spirit, empowering him for ministry and leadership.

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9:13, 14 "Not him, Lord; that's impossible. He could never become a Christian!" In essence, that's what Ananias said when God told him of Saul's conversion. After all, Saul had pursued believers to their death. Despite these understandable feelings, Ananias obeyed God and ministered to Saul. We must not limit God he can do anything. We must obey and follow God's leading, even when he leads us to difficult people and places.

9:17 Ananias found Saul, as he had been instructed, and greeted him as "Brother Saul." Ananias feared this meeting because Saul had come to Damascus to capture the believers and take them as prisoners to Jerusalem (9:2). In obedience to the Holy Spirit, however, Ananias greeted Saul lovingly. It is not always easy to love others, especially when we are afraid of them or doubt their motives. Nevertheless we must follow Jesus' command (John 13:34) and Ananias's example, showing loving acceptance to other believers.

 Some Pastor will says "If I'm God I will not forgive!" Thank God they are not God and they will never be. That means most of them are even wicked than Saul. No one is too wicked that God won't save! You are once a sinner you're also saved by Grace!

 b) vv. 26-27: Barnabas served as a mentor and advocate for Paul, facilitating his acceptance into the Christian community and providing guidance in his early ministry endeavours. His support helped Paul's transition into his leadership role in the Church. 

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9:26, 27 It is difficult to change your reputation, and Saul had a terrible reputation with the Christians. But Barnabas, a Jewish convert (mentioned in 4:36), became the bridge between Saul and the apostles. New Christians (especially those with tarnished reputations) need sponsors, people who will come alongside, encourage, teach, and introduce them to other believers. In what ways can you become a Barnabas to new believers? 

9:27 Galatians 1:18, 19 explains that Paul was in Jerusalem only 15 days and that he met only with Peter and James.

 c) vv. 19-22: The Church in Damascus supported Paul, fostering his confidence and growth as a leader, laying a foundation for his future ministry. This shows the role of the local church in equipping and empowering leaders for ministry (cf. 13:1-3). 

d) vv. 26-28: Despite initial hesitation, the apostles in Jerusalem eventually accepted Paul. Their recognition of Paul's conversion and ministry further validated his leadership calling in the early Church, affirming his place among the apostles.

 e) v. 30: The brethren's intervention here shows the importance of community support (solidarity and mutual care in the Church) in fostering effective leadership. 

f) 18:5: Paul's companions, like Timothy, Silas and Titus, were crucial in his leadership journey; offered support and assistance in ministry, helping him fulfil leadership tasks effectively amid challenges (2 Cor. 1:19; Tit. 1:4).

 g) 22:3: Paul's training under Gamaliel enhanced his effectiveness as a leader and communicator in the early Church and underscores the importance of academic learning in leadership development. 

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22:3 Gamaliel was the most honored rabbi of the first century. He was well known and respected as an expert on religious law and as a voice for moderation (5:34). Paul was showing his credentials as a well-educated man trained under the most respected Jewish rabbi.

 h) Gal. 1:18: Paul confessing Peter's authority and their time together stress mentorship's importance in leadership. Don't joke with learning from experienced Christian leaders.

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At the same time don't choose to learn under any leader without God's instructions. Majority of leaders always want those who have good gift to work under them but not all of them will help your spiritual life. Don't let any leader to use you to achieve his own selfishness and kill your vision! You can learn from distance from many leaders. Not every leaders can shape your vision according to God's master plan for your life if you're not led to stay under them. Just be careful!

 i) Besides divine impartation and recommendation, you need human preparation and recommendation to become the leader God expects (cf. Gen. 41:9-14; 1 Sam 16:18). Be guided! *LESSONS DERIVED* 

 1. An encounter with God is the foundation for effective leadership.

 2. No one rises in isolation. It is essential to seek godly input from others. Be humble!

 *QUESTIONS* 

 1. Discuss Paul's encounter with God.

 2. Identify the human agents God used to prepare Paul for his leadership roles.