Acts 9:20-43
Introduction
Here is the map referred to during the lesson.
The story of redemption is woven throughout Scripture.
Scripture is the revelation of God’s loving effort to show Himself and redeem us.
Verses 18-30 – this description covers about four years
Verses 19-22 -- “For some days he was with the disciples at Damascus”
Paul’s prior training made him quickly prepared for ministry. Jesus “put it all together” for him.
Galatians 1:15-19
Here, Paul reveals that after his conversion he went to Arabia, then back to Damascus.
Verses 23-25
The Jews plot to kill Paul. Paul’s disciples helped him escape by lowering him in a basket.
This seems to have happened after he returned from Damascus
Galatians 1:18-24
Paul meets up with Peter and James, the Lord’s brother.
Verses 26
When Paul comes to Jerusalem, he’s not received well by the Christians there “for they did not believe that he was a disciple.”
Verse 27-28
Barnabas serves to introduce Paul to the believers in Jerusalem so that he was accepted.
Verses 29-30
Paul’s ministry results in opposition by the Hellenistic Jews. Because of threats to his life, Paul leaves to go to Tarsus by way of Caesarea.
Verse 31
This a transition statement by Luke.
Paul is off the stage until Chapter 11
Verse 32-35
Peter was ministering “here and there” and eventually came to the saints at Lydda.
He healed a man who had been paralyzed and bedridden for 8 years.
There was essentially a revival and the residents there “turned to the Lord.”
Verses 36-43 “Dorcas restored to Life”
A disciple named Tabitha dies in Joppa. Her friends sent to Lydda for Peter. He comes and raises her to life
Verse 42 “And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed in the Lord.” (ESV)
