The SUMMARY of the ADULT Search the Scriptures. LESSON 218.

Recap of Last Week Lesson – Paul Takes a Jewish Vow

Paul took a Jewish vow in Jerusalem to demonstrate that he respected Jewish customs and was not
teaching Jews to abandon their traditions. He did this to promote peace and unity among believers.
However, despite his efforts, some people still opposed him and caused trouble for him.

Lessons Learned:

1. Promote peace and unity among believers.

2. Respect others' cultural practices when appropriate.

3. Be willing to make sacrifices for God's work.

4. Doing right may still attract opposition.

5. Remain faithful to God despite challenges.

STS SUMMARY LESSON 218: TESTIMONY OF PAUL'S CONVERSION

MEMORY VERSE: “And it came to pass, that, as I made my journey, and was come nigh unto Damascus
about noon, suddenly there shone from heaven a great light round about me. And I fell unto the ground,
and heard a voice saying unto me, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?” (Acts 22:6,7).

Text: Acts 22:1-30

This lesson focuses on Apostle Paul's defense before the Jews after he was falsely accused of teaching
against the Jewish people, the law, and the temple.

Instead of reacting in anger, Paul respectfully addressed his audience and wisely shared his personal
testimony of salvation.

He explained his Jewish background, his dramatic encounter with Jesus Christ on the road to Damascus,
and his divine commission to preach the gospel to the Gentiles.

Through his testimony, Paul showed courage, wisdom, humility, and obedience to God's call. The lesson
teaches believers the importance of sharing personal testimonies and defending the gospel with wisdom
and grace.

Question 1: What can believers learn from Paul's defence?

Answer: Believers should defend the gospel with wisdom, humility, respect, and dependence on the
Holy Spirit.

Question 2: Mention the impact of our personal testimonies as we declare the gospel. Answer: Personal
testimonies confirm the transforming power of Christ and strengthen the message of the gospel.
1. PAUL'S BACKGROUND AND ANTECEDENTS

Acts 22:1-5; Acts 5:34; Acts 21:20-39; Acts 26:5; Galatians 1:14; Philippians 3:5

Paul began his defense by identifying himself as a Jew born in Tarsus and trained under Gamaliel, one of
the most respected teachers of the law. By doing this, he established a common ground with his
audience and showed that he understood Jewish traditions and beliefs.

He explained that before his conversion, he was very zealous for Judaism and actively persecuted
Christians because he believed he was serving God. This helped the people understand that he once
shared the same convictions they held.

Paul's approach teaches believers the importance of wisdom when witnessing to others. He did not
begin by condemning his listeners but by showing that he understood their perspective.

He also demonstrated that personal testimony is a powerful tool for defending the faith. Even while
facing persecution, Paul saw an opportunity to preach Christ. Believers today should learn to use every
opportunity to share what Christ has done in their lives.

A genuine testimony strengthens the message of the gospel and proves the transforming power of
Jesus Christ. Though not everyone may accept our testimony, we must faithfully present it and trust God
for the results.

Question 3: Why is the testimony of our transformation a better way to witness to unbelievers and
persecutors?

Answer: Because it provides living evidence of what Christ has personally done in our lives.

Question 4: What are the qualities that endeared Ananias of Damascus to the Lord? Answer: He was
devoted to God, prayerful, obedient, courageous, Spirit-led, and had a good reputation.

2. PAUL'S DRAMATIC CONVERSION AND BAPTISM

Acts 22:6-16; Acts 9:3-17; Acts 26:12-18; Acts 10:22; 1 Corinthians 15:9,10

Paul recounted how he encountered the Lord Jesus while travelling to Damascus. A bright light from
heaven suddenly shone around him, and he heard the voice of Jesus asking why he was persecuting
Him.

This supernatural encounter completely changed his life. From being a fierce enemy of the church, Paul
became a devoted follower and preacher of Christ.

God then sent Ananias, a faithful disciple, to pray for him and restore his sight. Ananias was known for
his devotion, good character, prayer life, and sensitivity to God's leading. His obedience shows how God
uses ordinary believers to accomplish extraordinary tasks.
Paul's conversion demonstrates the power of God's grace to transform any sinner regardless of their
past. It also highlights the importance of faithful disciples who help new converts grow in their faith.

After receiving his sight, Paul was commissioned to be a witness of the things he had seen and heard.
Every believer is likewise called to testify about Christ.

To do this effectively, believers need the power of the Holy Spirit, courage, and commitment to the
truth. God still uses transformed lives as evidence of the reality and power of the gospel today.

Question 5: How can believers be faithful witnesses of what they have seen and heard?

Answer: By relying on the Holy Spirit and boldly declaring the whole truth of the gospel without
compromise.

Question 6: Why did Paul, being a Jew, claim to be a Roman citizen and how can we apply that to our
own present circumstance?

Answer: He used his legal rights to prevent unlawful punishment, teaching believers to wisely use lawful
privileges for protection and service.

3. PAUL'S TESTIMONY OF HIS COMMISSION TO THE GENTILES

Acts 22:17-30; Acts 9:26; Acts 26:15-18; Galatians 2:8; 2 Corinthians 12:2

After his conversion, Paul desired to preach the gospel to the Jews.

However, while praying in Jerusalem, the Lord revealed that the Jews would reject his message and
instructed him to go to the Gentiles. Paul obeyed God's direction even though it was different from his
personal preference.

When he mentioned God's call to the Gentiles, the Jews became angry because they believed salvation
should remain primarily for them. Their hatred led to another attempt to silence him.

Yet God protected Paul through the intervention of the Roman authorities. Paul wisely used his Roman
citizenship to avoid unlawful punishment, showing that believers may lawfully use their rights for
protection.

This section teaches the importance of complete obedience to God's will regardless of opposition. It also
shows that God can turn persecution into opportunities for ministry. Paul's trials repeatedly opened
doors for him to testify about Christ before rulers and large audiences.

Believers should seek divine wisdom, know their lawful rights, and remain faithful to God's calling. When
challenges arise, God can use them to advance His purpose and provide new opportunities to spread the
gospel.

Question 7: Why is it important to ask for divine wisdom in the defence of the gospel? Answer: Because
divine wisdom helps believers speak appropriately, reach hearts effectively, and glorify God in every s