Overview:
Independent, inflexible, self-reliant . . . three words that characterize a stubborn, prideful will. Saul, like many of us, needed the continual reminder that God will do His work, His way, and in His timing. In this sermon on Acts 9, Pastor Chuck Swindoll teaches how God refined Saul’s independent will through waiting, suffering, and dependence on others. Discover how these counter-cultural truths apply to you today!
Message Summary:
In “Mission Underway . . . Thanks to the Lesser-Known,” Chuck Swindoll explores the high-tension moment when Saul attempts to join the disciples in Jerusalem. While the church was understandably paralyzed by fear and skepticism of their former persecutor, God provided a bridge-builder named Barnabas. Swindoll emphasizes that Saul’s independent and self-reliant will had to be refined through the humility of needing another’s endorsement. This message celebrates the “Barnabases” of the faith—those lesser-known heroes who are willing to take risks on people, offer the hand of fellowship to the outcast, and facilitate the work of God through quiet, supportive advocacy.
Message Key Facts:
- The Fear of the Church: When Saul returned to Jerusalem, the disciples did not believe he was truly a disciple, illustrating that deep wounds and past reputations are not easily forgotten.
- The “Son of Encouragement”: Barnabas (whose name means “Son of Encouragement”) lived up to his title by taking hold of Saul and bringing him before the apostles, putting his own reputation on the line.
- Refining the Independent Will: Swindoll points out that Saul, a man of great intellect and drive, had to learn the “counter-cultural” truth of dependence on others.
- A Strategic Withdrawal: The message concludes with Saul being sent away to Tarsus for his own safety, showing that God’s “mission underway” often involves strategic pauses and geographic shifts to protect His instruments.
Message References:
- The Problem of a Past Reputation
- Why the Jerusalem church was right to be cautious and how Saul felt the sting of rejection.
- Scripture: Acts 9:26 (He was trying to associate with the disciples; but they were all afraid of him).
- The Intervention of Barnabas
- The character of a bridge-builder and the risk of advocacy.
- Scripture: Acts 9:27 (But Barnabas took hold of him and brought him to the apostles).
- The Validation of the Vision
- How Barnabas recounted Saul’s Damascus experience to the leaders, transforming suspicion into fellowship.
- Scripture: Acts 9:27–28 (He described how he had seen the Lord on the road… and he was with them).
- Persecution and Peace
- The renewed threats against Saul’s life and the resulting season of peace for the church.
- Scripture: Acts 9:29–31 (The church throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace).
