A Convincing Presentation

Yet Saul grew more and more powerful and baffled the Jews living in Damascus by proving that Jesus is the Christ. -- Acts 9:22

· Have you ever had a point to make and wanted to do the best job of presenting the facts?

· Maybe you were innocent and those that considered you already guilty really needed to hear you out?

· What are the key elements needed to make a presentation convincing?

Have you ever known someone that always seemed to make a great impact on others no matter where they went? Following his conversion, Saul of Tarsus made his way into the city of Jerusalem. Saul was always an influential figure. While in Damascus, just prior to this visit to the Jewish Metropolis, Saul was recorded as a fearless preacher (Acts 9:27b) proclaiming the name of Jesus. By the time one reaches the thirteenth chapter of the Book of Acts, Saul is addressed by the writer as Paul. From this point on, that is the title by which the great statesman is known. He is all over the pages of Scripture in the New Testament impressing his mark upon the world. Truthfully, many (including myself) are convinced that this certain Paul would have had a great influence on this world no matter what. It is clearly better to be serving the Lord as one leaves this imprint on humanity, of course.

Peering into the account of Acts, while observing the movements of Paul, I see a great display of more than just charisma or intellect. The Scriptures tell us that Saul grew in power, that he confounded these Jews in Damascus, proving to them that Jesus is the Messiah.

· How did Paul plow through this messianic confusion to bring clarity?

· Was it merely his massive intellect?

· Maybe by nature he was a good salesperson?

While looking closely at this text (Acts 9:22), we see that Saul was empowered more and more as he knitted together already-present information to present with conviction this truth about Jesus the Messiah. Paul was not superhuman; he served a supernatural God. At so many turns, empowered followers of Christ throughout history have been used to bring forward convincing presentations of God's truths. Leaving a mark on this world requires only two things: God's call on one's life and a love for Jesus in fulfilling that call (Rom. 8:28).

Take a chance with Jesus; seek to leave a mark on this world by answering His call on your life. When we follow-through with His call while carrying out that mission with our love for Him as our motive, we will succeed.

Remember, come to Him empty and ready and you will impact this world as you are empowered and guided along the way