Lecture Notes: Seeking Jesus - Apostle Paul's Witness of Christ

Introduction

• Lecturer: John Hilton
• Topic: Apostle Paul’s teachings about Jesus Christ
• Focus: Paul's use of the term "weakness"

Key Concepts

Weakness in Paul's Teachings

• Paul frequently uses the term "weak" in his writings.
• Personal reflection on weaknesses by John Hilton, including being a control freak and worrying.
• Question: Do you have weaknesses?

The Thorn in Paul's Flesh

• Paul mentions a thorn in his flesh as a weakness to prevent pride.
• Unknown specific nature of the thorn - could be temptation, physical ailment, or emotional issue.
• Despite begging for its removal, God did not remove it; instead, Paul was told, "My grace is sufficient."

Weakness as a Feature

• Concept: "Weakness is a feature, not a defect."
• Examples from the Bible:
  • Abraham, Joseph, Moses, Gideon, Ruth.
• Weakness allows Christ's power to work best.

Lessons from Weakness

• Weakness can prevent pride.
• Weaknesses allow us to learn valuable lessons (Story of Elder Haight).
• Helps us see God's power.

Two Common Weaknesses:

1. Temptation
   • Paul’s internal conflict between wanting to do right but failing.
   • Weakness can draw us closer to Christ.
2. Trials
   • Paul’s various hardships.
   • "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

Christ's Grace and Weakness

• Paul: "Christ died for the ungodly."
• Grace stronger than sin.
• Grace does not encourage sin (Paul’s response to the idea of sinning to increase grace).
• Grace enables newness of life.

Models of Grace

• Various models of understanding grace (gap-filling, 50-50 effort, etc.).
• Importance of grace being a constant source of strength.
• Brad Wilcox's view: Grace is a continuous energy source.

Real-Life Application: Corrie Ten Boom's Story

• Corrie Ten Boom's encounter with a former Nazi guard.
• Demonstrated Christ’s grace and forgiveness.

Conclusion: Power Through Weakness

• Message: Christ’s grace is all we need.
• Encouragement to rely on Christ’s strength amidst personal weaknesses.
• Final words from Apostle Paul about setting sights on heavenly realities and adopting a new nature in Christ.

Additional Resources

• Pre-class readings and additional resources are available for further study.