Lecture on Apostle Paul

Introduction

Paul's Transformation: Initially, Paul persecuted the early church, thinking he was right until his encounter on the road to Damascus changed his views.
Personal Reflection: The speaker reflects on God's blessings in life regardless of worldly conditions.
Prayer: A prayer is offered for understanding and applying God's word.

Paul's Influence: Monumental figure in the early church, wrote 13 (or 14 if including Hebrews) of the 27 New Testament books.
Authorship of Hebrews: Evidence and reasoning presented that Paul wrote Hebrews, citing Hebrews 13:23.
Doctrinal Contributions: Paul is regarded as the second founder of Christianity due to his significant doctrinal contributions.
Luke's Account: The book of Acts mostly details Paul's life and missionary journeys.
Epistles: Paul's letters (referred to as Epistles) are crucial for understanding Christian doctrines.

Chronological Study: Harmonizing Paul's writings with Luke's historical account in Acts to study his life in chronological order.
Epistles Context: Noting what Paul was doing and his location when writing each epistle, along with their themes.
Objective: Gain a better understanding of Paul’s life and teachings to be a true disciple of Jesus Christ.

1 Corinthians 11:1: Paul encourages believers to imitate him as he imitates Christ.
Misinterpretation of Arrogance: Clarification that Paul’s statements were not arrogant but intended to set an achievable example for believers.

Birth and Ancestry: Born in Tarsus, a significant city in Cilicia. From a Jewish family of the Tribe of Benjamin.
Tarsus: Important city due to strategic location and size, known for its educational institutions surpassing Athens and Alexandria.
Jewish Heritage: Paul is a Hebrew of Hebrews, indicating pure Jewish ancestry and adherence to Jewish customs.
Roman Citizenship: Paul was a Roman citizen by birth, a rare privilege likely due to his family's status or deeds.

Bet Sefer (House of the Book): Early education focusing on the Torah, starting around age 5-6.
Bet Talmud (House of Learning): Advanced study of the entire Hebrew Scriptures, focusing on memorization and understanding.
Bet Midrash (House of Study): Highest level of education under a rabbi, aiming to become a rabbi oneself.

Gal’s Student: Paul studied under Rabbi Gamaliel, one of the most prestigious rabbis of that time.
Understanding Philosophies: His background in Tarsus and education under Gamaliel made Paul knowledgeable in both Jewish and Greek philosophies.
Persecution of the Church: Paul’s reasons for persecuting the early church before his conversion, believing he was upholding Jewish law.

Invitation to Faith: The lecture concludes with an invitation for attendees to receive Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.

Salvation Prayer: A prayer is offered for those who want to accept Jesus, emphasizing belief and confession. A call for a show of hands from those who prayed.