Lessons

The Apostle Paul – A Chosen Vessel. The Apostle Paul has the unique distinction of being called the Apostle to the gentiles. This is pretty important for today’s christians to understand because the church, which is the body of Christ, consists of the gentile nations that are apart from Israel and all the promises made to them. Paul is given a unique message to deliver unto the gentiles and he declared in Acts 28:28 that they would hear it. Paul’s progressive ministry is spelled out in Acts 9:15 (KJV) “But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel”. What’s interesting about this verse is that Paul carries out the calling in reverse order. He first went unto Israel, Israel eventually caused an uproar that put Paul in custody of Kings, and finally he went unto the gentiles, particularly while in prison. It’s extremely important for christianity to understand the role Paul played in the delivery of a body of truth called the mystery. This calling is what is specific to believers today and explains the differences between Israel’s calling and inheritance vs. our own. The lesson on June 8, 2003 teaches about the chosen vessel of Paul and his ministry. Be sure and download the handout to compliment your studies.