Paul as An Apostle

PURE PAUL: CALLED AS AN APOSTLE

“Paul, an apostle, (not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead;)

And all the brethren which are with me, unto the churches of Galatia:” Galatians 1:1-2 KJV

Apostle Paul’s View of Himself in Ministry: A Reflection for Christian Leaders

Note: Paul didn’t “join” or “sign up” to “become a well beloved, high profile ” chief apostle,” rather he was God chosen, called, fashioned, shipwrecked, milled and repeatedly sifted, until God “fashioned him into a minister.”(see beneath)

Apostle Paul, one of the most prominent figures in the New Testament, often provided deep insights into his own calling, ministry, and identity as a servant of Christ. Through his writings, we gain a profound understanding of how he viewed himself, not with pride, but with humility, fully acknowledging the grace of God that had fashioned him into a minister of the Gospel.

This discussion will explore Paul’s reflections on his ministry, humility, and leadership style, while drawing out key points that apply to modern Christian ministry, especially in the context of Apostolic leadership, humility, and building healthy relationships in the Body of Christ.

1. Paul Was Fashioned by God into His Minister

In reflecting on his calling and the grace that equipped him for ministry, Paul makes it clear that he was fashioned into a minister by God’s hand, not by his own abilities. One of the key scriptures that captures this is found in 1 Timothy 1:12, where Paul writes:

“And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry.” (1 Timothy 1:12, KJV)

Paul acknowledges that he was not self-made. His ability to serve as a minister was solely due to the enabling power of Christ. This is a crucial lesson for modern ministry leaders: the effectiveness and fruitfulness of ministry are not rooted in personal ambition or skills but in God’s calling and empowerment. The Lord fashions His ministers as vessels for His glory, as Paul also states in 2 Corinthians 4:7:

“But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.”

2. Paul’s Humility: “I Have Not Attained”

Paul also demonstrates humility in his recognition that he had not fully arrived in his spiritual journey. In Philippians 3:12, Paul admits:

“Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:12, KJV)

Even as an apostle who had accomplished great things for God’s Kingdom, Paul remained humble and aware that he had not reached perfection. He continued pressing toward his ultimate goal—conformity to Christ. This attitude of humility is crucial for any leader today, as it prevents pride and fosters a spirit of continual growth and reliance on God.

3. Follow Me as I Follow Christ

One of the most profound aspects of Paul’s leadership was his emphasis on following Christ, not himself. In 1 Corinthians 11:1, he exhorts the believers:

“Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.” (1 Corinthians 11:1, KJV)

Paul never claimed to be the ultimate authority; instead, he called people to imitate him only insofar as he imitated Christ. This statement reflects a servant-leader model where the leader’s ultimate loyalty is to Christ, and their life is an example of that relationship. Apostolic leaders today must understand that their role is to point people to Jesus, not themselves. A leader’s life should mirror Christ’s love, character, and mission.

4. “Know Me, Know My Doctrine, My Lifestyle” (about “relationships”)

Paul invited the churches he led to know not just his teachings, but also his way of life. In 2 Timothy 3:10, he says:

“But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience.” (2 Timothy 3:10, KJV)

Here, Paul emphasizes transparency and integrity in ministry. His doctrine aligned with his lifestyle, and his faith was lived out in everyday relationships and challenges. Apostolic leaders should live lives of integrity that reflect the truths they teach. Ministry is not just about delivering correct doctrine, but living a life that exemplifies Christ’s values in practice.

5. “As the Offscouring of the World”

Paul also acknowledged the hardships and rejection that often accompanied his ministry. In 1 Corinthians 4:13, he writes:

“Being defamed, we intreat: we are made as the filth of the world, and are the offscouring of all things unto this day.” (1 Corinthians 4:13, KJV)

This powerful statement reflects Paul’s willingness to endure suffering and rejection for the sake of the Gospel. Apostles and Christian leaders must understand that the path of ministry often involves being misunderstood, persecuted, and treated with contempt by the world. This is part of the apostolic resilience—pressing on through the hardships with unwavering faith in Christ.

6. Paul as a Sent Messenger: Galatians 1:1-2

Paul repeatedly identified himself as an apostle sent by God, not by human authority. In Galatians 1:1-2, he introduces his letter by saying:

“Paul, an apostle, (not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead;) And all the brethren which are with me, unto the churches of Galatia.” (Galatians 1:1-2, KJV)

Paul’s authority and mission were divinely given. Apostolic calling comes directly from God, and it often involves a clear sense of being “sent out” for a specific mission. Apostolic leaders today must be confident that their commission is from God, even if it is not always validated or understood by human institutions.

7. Setting in Place Community and Order: Ephesians Examples

Paul was also deeply concerned with setting up spiritual order and community life in the churches. In Ephesians, he emphasized unity in the Body of Christ, giving instructions on leadership, relationships, and spiritual growth. Ephesians 4:11-13 is key to understanding Paul’s vision for the church:

“And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.” (Ephesians 4:11-13, KJV)

Paul saw the role of apostolic leaders as essential for building the church and creating unity among believers. Apostolic leaders today must have a heart for setting in place order, training others, and ensuring the spiritual health and growth of the church community.

8. All Accepted in the Beloved: Ephesians 1:6

Paul beautifully expressed the inclusivity of the Gospel, affirming that all believers are accepted in Christ. In Ephesians 1:6, he says:

“To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved.” (Ephesians 1:6, KJV)

This is foundational for any apostolic or ministry leader. Everyone, regardless of background, race, or past, is accepted in the love of Christ. Ministries like EORR Cross Body Unity must build on this foundation, creating spaces where all are respected, honored, and brought into unity under Christ.

Apostle Paul’s Great Rejections

The Apostle Paul’s journey in ministry was marked by significant rejection and opposition. Here are some key aspects of Paul’s rejection, as well as how he navigated these challenges:

1. Initial Rejection by the Church (the First 12 Chief Apostles, who had been hand picked and mentored by Christ)

After his conversion on the road to Damascus, Paul faced skepticism from the early Christian community. His past as a persecutor of Christians led many to distrust him.

Scriptural Reference: In Acts 9:26-27 (KJV), it says:
“And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple. But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus.”
This highlights Paul’s initial rejection by the very community he sought to join.

2. Opposition from the Jewish Leaders

Paul faced intense opposition from Jewish leaders and religious authorities who rejected his message about Jesus as the Messiah. His preaching of grace and faith, rather than the Law, created conflict.

Scriptural Reference: Acts 13:44-45 (KJV):
“And the next sabbath day came almost the whole city together to hear the word of God. But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy, and spake against those things which were spoken by Paul, contradicting and blaspheming.”
This illustrates the rejection and hostility he encountered in his ministry.

3. Physical and Emotional Rejection

Paul experienced physical violence and emotional distress due to his ministry efforts. He was beaten, imprisoned, and faced threats on numerous occasions.

Scriptural Reference: 2 Corinthians 11:24-26 (KJV):
“Of the Jews five times received I forty stripes save one. Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep; in journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils by mine own countrymen, in perils by the heathen, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren.”
This account highlights the severity of the rejection and persecution he faced.

4. Rejection from Within the Church

Paul also faced criticism and rejection from fellow believers, particularly regarding his authority and teachings. Some questioned his credentials as an apostle, leading to division in the churches.

Scriptural Reference: Galatians 1:6-7 (KJV):
“I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ.”
This shows the struggle Paul had with some of the very communities he sought to serve.

5. Paul’s Response to Rejection

Despite the numerous rejections, Paul remained steadfast in his mission. He often responded with humility and continued to preach the gospel boldly.

Scriptural Reference: 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 (KJV):
“We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;”
These verses capture his resilience and determination in the face of rejection.

6. Emphasizing God’s Sovereignty

Paul continually emphasized that his ministry was divinely appointed, and he did not seek approval from people. This perspective allowed him to endure rejection without losing heart.

Scriptural Reference: Galatians 1:1 (KJV):
“Paul, an apostle, (not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead;)”
This assertion of his divine calling helped him remain focused on his mission, regardless of human rejection.

Paul’s experience with rejection serves as a powerful reminder for modern-day ministers. Rejection in ministry can be a reality, but like Paul, leaders can find strength in their calling, trust in God’s sovereignty, and remain committed to their mission. Embracing humility, relying on divine strength, and focusing on the gospel’s message can empower leaders to navigate their own challenges effectively.

Paul as a Wise Example for Apostolic Leadership for Today

Paul’s reflections on his ministry offer powerful insights for today’s apostolic leaders. He modeled humility, integrity, and resilience in the face of trials, always pointing others to Christ. His life was a testimony to the transformative power of the Gospel, and his teachings emphasize the importance of unity, order, and relationship in the Body of Christ. Ministries today, like EORR Cross Body Unity, must embrace these principles, respecting relationships and fostering a community where all are accepted in the beloved.

The apostolic leader’s mission is not only to build and establish churches but also to maintain humility, integrity, and unwavering faith in Christ, even amidst suffering and rejection. Like Paul, modern apostles are called to set spiritual order, empower others, and create inclusive communities where Christ’s love reigns supreme.

EORR Unity: Cross-Body Apostolic Ministry

EORR Unity, or “Ephesians 4 Cross-Body Unity”, is a doctrine that emphasizes the unity and diversity within the Body of Christ, rooted in the principles of mutual respect, humility, and shared purpose. EORR stands for Equal Opportunity Real Respect, signifying that every believer, regardless of race, gender, or background, is equally valued in the sight of God and is called to fulfill their unique role in the body.

The foundation of EORR Unity comes from Ephesians 4:3-6 (KJV):

“Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.”

This passage shows that while there are many different members, the body of Christ is unified by the Spirit, called to work together toward one goal: glorifying God through service, love, and mutual edification. EORR Unity transcends denominational divides, cultural differences, and personal opinions. It seeks to create a harmonious fellowship, rooted in respect for each person’s call and submission to Christ as the Head of the Church.

Paul’s Humility in Ministry

The Apostle Paul exemplified true humility in his leadership and ministry. Despite his towering influence as an apostle, he consistently gave glory to God for his achievements, recognizing that his power and authority came not from his own strength but from Christ working through him. His humility was evident in several key scriptures:

1. Paul Determined Not to Know Anything Among Anyone Except Christ

In 1 Corinthians 2:2 (KJV), Paul declared:

“For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.”

Paul’s focus was singular. He was not interested in promoting his own knowledge, fame, or personal opinions. His ministry centered solely on the message of Jesus Christ and His redemptive work on the cross. This humility is a crucial lesson for modern apostolic leaders: the focus must remain on Christ, not on our accomplishments or human wisdom. As Paul noted earlier in this passage, he did not come to the Corinthians with “excellency of speech or wisdom” (1 Corinthians 2:1), but in the power of God, so that their faith would rest in Christ alone.

2. Paul Considered Himself as the “Least of All the Apostles”

Paul often referred to himself in terms of humility, recognizing the grace of God in his life. In 1 Corinthians 15:9-10 (KJV), he wrote:

“For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.”

Even though Paul worked tirelessly for the advancement of the Gospel, he attributed all of his success to God’s grace. His humble attitude underscores that apostolic ministry is about servanthood and submission to God’s will, not human ambition or achievement.

3. “We Are Made a Spectacle” – Paul’s Endurance Through Trials

Paul endured significant suffering throughout his ministry. He described himself and other apostles as “the offscouring of all things” (1 Corinthians 4:13, KJV), highlighting the rejection and ridicule they faced for the sake of Christ. Yet, Paul’s humility in suffering allowed him to glorify God even more, knowing that it was not about his reputation but the proclamation of the Gospel.

The Church Trains the Powers and Principalities

Paul saw the Church not merely as a gathering of believers but as a demonstration of God’s wisdom to the spiritual realm. In Ephesians 3:10 (KJV), he wrote:

“To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God.”

Here, Paul reveals that the Church plays a cosmic role in God’s divine plan. Through the Church, God’s wisdom is made known to the spiritual forces, showing His supreme authority and purpose. This passage emphasizes the importance of unity and order within the Church, as the Body of Christ is not just a community for believers but also a witness to the unseen powers of the world.

Knowing the Love of Christ Which Passes Knowledge

Paul’s prayer for the Church was that believers would come to grasp the depth of Christ’s love—a love that surpasses human understanding. In Ephesians 3:19 (KJV), he wrote:

“And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.”

The love of Christ is incomprehensible yet life-transforming. Paul’s desire was for believers to be so rooted and grounded in this love that it would shape their entire being. For modern leaders, understanding and sharing this love is essential for fostering unity and respect within the Body of Christ. Love is what binds us together and what equips us to serve one another faithfully.

Work Out Your Own Salvation

Paul also emphasized personal responsibility in one’s walk with God. In Philippians 2:12 (KJV), he urged the believers to:

“Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.”

This does not mean that salvation is earned through works, but rather that believers are to live out their faith with reverence and seriousness, actively participating in the sanctification process. Paul understood that Christian life is a journey of continual growth, relying on God’s grace while also being diligent in pursuing holiness. For apostolic leaders, this principle is vital: a deep personal walk with God is the foundation for effective leadership in the Body of Christ.

Apostolic Leadership in EORR (Equal Opportunity Real Respect) Unity

In summary, the Apostle Paul’s humility and his teachings about the Church’s role, love, and personal responsibility are powerful lessons for modern apostolic leaders. EORR Unity is about creating a Christ-centered community where respect, love, and acceptance are foundational. Apostolic leaders, like Paul, must embrace humility, focusing on Christ and His purposes rather than personal recognition. The church’s mission extends beyond the visible—it demonstrates God’s wisdom to the spiritual realm and exemplifies His love to the world.

By working out our salvation, knowing Christ’s love, and building relationships based on mutual respect, we fulfill our role in the Body of Christ and contribute to the greater plan of God. Apostolic resilience is found in this: enduring trials with humility, always pointing others to Christ, and standing as a witness to both the physical and spiritual worlds.

What is Apostolic Calling?

An apostolic calling is a divine assignment given to individuals who are commissioned to serve as foundational leaders, sent out to establish, build, and oversee ministries or churches, often in new or uncharted spiritual territories. The term “apostle” comes from the Greek word apostolos, meaning “one who is sent out.” In the New Testament, apostles like Paul and Peter were sent to proclaim the Gospel, establish the early church, and bring spiritual order, often in challenging or hostile environments.

Apostolic calling typically involves:

Foundational Leadership: Apostles serve as pioneers or spiritual architects, laying the foundation for churches and ministries through teaching, discipleship, and church planting.
Spiritual Authority: Apostles carry a weighty spiritual authority to bring correction, guidance, and instruction to the Body of Christ, often dealing with doctrinal issues or leadership structure.
Missionary Purpose: Those with an apostolic calling are sent into areas where the Gospel has not been established or is struggling to take root. They are often called to bring revival or spiritual renewal to regions in need of the Good News.
Equipping Others: Apostles raise up and equip other leaders—pastors, teachers, evangelists, and prophets—helping the church grow and mature (Ephesians 4:11-13).
Spiritual Warfare: Apostles often encounter significant spiritual opposition as they confront principalities, powers, and strongholds that resist the advance of God’s Kingdom

Apostolic Calling and Endurance

An apostolic calling is a high and often difficult calling that involves establishing, guiding, and nurturing the Body of Christ in various capacities. It requires spiritual authority, maturity, and resilience. However, enduring the trials of apostolic ministry is possible through the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit, grounding in God’s Word, reliance on prayer, and commitment to long-term vision.

Endurance in trials for apostolic leaders is not passive survival but an active, faith-filled process of trusting God’s plan, relying on His strength, and pressing on in obedience. Through suffering, challenges, and spiritual opposition, apostolic leaders are shaped, refined, and prepared for greater fruitfulness in the Kingdom of God. As James 1:12 reminds us, “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life.”

Enduring Trials in Apostolic Ministry

Apostolic ministry comes with unique challenges that can include persecution, misunderstanding, isolation, and intense spiritual warfare. Enduring these trials requires both spiritual and practical wisdom. Here are steps to help endure trials in apostolic ministry:

1. Stay Rooted in God’s Word

Apostles must be deeply grounded in the Scriptures to maintain perspective during difficult times. Psalm 119:105 says, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” Meditating on God’s promises and teachings provides strength and clarity.

Example: In 2 Corinthians 11:23-28, Paul recounts the many trials he endured as an apostle—imprisonment, beatings, shipwrecks, and more. Despite all this, Paul’s confidence in God’s Word and His calling sustained him.

2. Depend on God’s Strength

Endurance in trials requires relying on God’s strength, not our own. Apostles, like other ministers, can become weary in the face of relentless opposition, but they are sustained by the power of the Holy Spirit. Isaiah 40:31 says, “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.”

Example: Paul’s famous statement in 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, “For when I am weak, then I am strong,” highlights his complete dependence on God’s grace to sustain him in ministry, especially in times of trial.

3. Embrace God’s Process of Growth

Trials are often part of God’s process to refine and grow leaders. Romans 5:3-4 teaches, “We glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope.” Apostolic leaders must understand that trials are not just obstacles but opportunities for spiritual growth and maturity.

Example: Job endured great suffering but came out of his trials with a deeper understanding of God’s sovereignty and character (Job 42:5-6). Apostolic leaders can expect similar spiritual refinement.

4. Maintain a Long-Term Perspective

Apostolic ministry requires a long-haul vision. When immediate results are not visible or opposition is overwhelming, the apostolic leader must keep their eyes on the eternal impact of their work. Galatians 6:9 encourages, “Let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.”

Example: Jesus, the ultimate apostle, endured the cross because of the joy set before Him (Hebrews 12:2). His example teaches us to keep our eyes on the bigger picture of God’s Kingdom and purpose.

5. Surround Yourself with a Supportive Community

Though apostolic leaders may feel alone in their mission, it is vital to cultivate relationships with others who provide spiritual support, encouragement, and accountability. Apostles like Paul often traveled with teams (Timothy, Silas, Barnabas) who helped him carry out the work and offer mutual encouragement.

Example: In 1 Thessalonians 5:11, Paul exhorts believers to “encourage one another and build each other up.” Even those in apostolic roles need others to help them carry the load.

6. Commit to Prayer and Fasting

Prayer and fasting are essential spiritual disciplines for enduring trials. In times of great challenge, apostolic leaders must seek God’s presence for guidance, clarity, and renewed strength. Prayer brings divine alignment and enables apostolic leaders to discern God’s will amidst confusion or opposition.

Example: Jesus fasted for 40 days before beginning His public ministry (Matthew 4:1-11). Likewise, Paul regularly prayed for the churches he established, and the early apostles fasted and prayed when making major decisions (Acts 13:2-3).

7. Recognize the Spiritual Nature of Opposition

Much of the opposition apostolic leaders face comes from the enemy, who seeks to disrupt the advance of God’s Kingdom. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that “we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world.” Apostles must engage in spiritual warfare, using the full armor of God to stand firm in trials (Ephesians 6:13-17).

Example: In Acts 16:16-18, Paul faced spiritual opposition from a demon-possessed girl, but through the authority given by God, he cast out the spirit and continued his mission.

8. Find Strength in the Cross of Christ

The cross is both the symbol of suffering and the source of victory. Apostolic resilience is strengthened by identifying with Christ’s suffering and His resurrection power. Philippians 3:10 says, “That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings.”

Example: The apostles were willing to suffer and die for the cause of Christ because they understood the transformative power of the cross. Their faith was built on the knowledge that Christ’s victory over death assured their ultimate triumph.

Paul’s Various Trials

The Apostle Paul faced numerous trials throughout his ministry, which shaped his character and fortified his resolve to spread the Gospel. Here’s an overview of some significant trials he encountered, along with insights into their implications for modern ministry leaders:

1. Persecution and Physical Suffering

Paul endured considerable physical hardship due to his commitment to preaching the Gospel. His trials often included beatings, imprisonment, and even stoning.

Scriptural Reference:
- 2 Corinthians 11:24-25 (KJV):
  “Of the Jews five times received I forty stripes save one. Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep;”
  This highlights the severity of persecution he faced.

2. Rejection and Opposition

Paul frequently encountered rejection, not just from non-believers but also from fellow Jews and even some within the Christian community. This rejection often came in the form of harsh criticism and challenges to his authority.

Scriptural Reference:
- Galatians 1:6-7 (KJV):
  “I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ.”
  Here, Paul addresses the opposition he faced from within the church itself, underscoring the struggle to maintain the integrity of the Gospel.

3. Emotional and Spiritual Struggles

The burden of ministry took an emotional toll on Paul. He often felt anxious about the churches he planted and concerned for their spiritual well-being.

Scriptural Reference:
- 2 Corinthians 11:28 (KJV):
  “Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches.”
  This verse reveals the deep emotional strain Paul experienced as he carried the weight of leadership and pastoral care.

4. Imprisonment

Several of Paul’s trials included imprisonment, which significantly impacted his ministry but also provided opportunities for evangelism and teaching.

Scriptural Reference:
- Philippians 1:12-13 (KJV):
  “But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel; So that my bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other places;”
  This demonstrates how Paul viewed his imprisonment as an opportunity to advance the Gospel, showcasing his unwavering commitment to his mission.

5. Cultural and Religious Opposition

Paul’s ministry often placed him at odds with local customs, cultures, and religious practices. He frequently faced hostility from those whose traditions he challenged through the Gospel.

Scriptural Reference:
- Acts 17:5-7 (KJV):
  “But the Jews which believed not, moved with envy, took unto them certain lewd fellows of the baser sort, and gathered a company, and set all the city on an uproar, and assaulted the house of Jason, and sought to bring them out to the people. And when they found them not, they drew Jason and certain brethren unto the rulers of the city, crying, These that have turned the world upside down are come hither also;”
  This illustrates the opposition Paul faced from the Jewish community and how his ministry was seen as a threat to the established order.

6. Loneliness and Isolation

At times, Paul experienced profound loneliness, especially during his imprisonments. The feeling of being abandoned by others in his time of need weighed heavily on him.

Scriptural Reference:
- 2 Timothy 4:16-17 (KJV):
  “At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me. I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge. Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and that all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.”
  This passage underscores Paul’s isolation during his trials, yet it also highlights his reliance on God for strength.

7. Contention Among Believers

Paul dealt with conflicts and disagreements among the believers he ministered to. This often led to division and strife within congregations.

Scriptural Reference:
- 1 Corinthians 1:10-11 (KJV):
  “Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions among you.”
  Paul addressed these issues directly, emphasizing the need for unity and harmony within the Body of Christ.

Conclusion

Paul’s trials in ministry serve as a powerful testament to the challenges that come with serving God. His experiences illustrate the importance of resilience, faith, and reliance on God’s strength amidst adversity. For modern ministers, Paul’s example encourages us to remain steadfast in our mission, trust in God’s sovereignty, and find purpose even in the midst of trials. His journey reminds us that ministry is often marked by suffering, but it is also filled with opportunities for growth, deeper faith, and greater reliance on God.

QUESTIONS: Dr Taveau taveauteachingcenter@gmail.com