If you’re new to Bible Study, the above three names may or may not carry a lot of meaning yet, but they are incredibly important to who we are as Christ-followers as well as a Church family. While we find their stories in the book of Acts and the letters that follow, we live their legacies each and every day as we fulfill our commitment to grow and mature and become like Christ.
Paul’s story actually begins at the end of chapter 7, but feel free to start at chapter 9. Don’t be thrown by the name that’s used, Saul.
That’s who he was before God got a hold of his life. We meet Barnabas in chapter 4, but we really begin to see his impact starting at the end of chapter 9 when he introduces Paul
(formerly Saul) to the apostles. It’s a pretty big deal based on Saul’s previous activity.
Timothy enters the journey in chapter 16 and is considered one of Paul’s sons in the ministry. Two of Paul’s letters are to this young leader/pastor and provide us with invaluable wisdom and practical guidance for both ministry and life. I’ve said numerous times that everybody needs each of the following in their life. And as we ramp up our conversation about discipleship here at FBI, get ready, because you’re going to hear it again and again.
In addition to the community we find in small groups, I believe we also need:
- to be in personal relationships represented by the above. That’s discipleship at its very essence.
- Paul/Paula: We each need someone in our lives who is a little further ahead and
more mature in their walk with the Lord, someone willing to invest their knowledge, experiences, and heart into us. This isn’t just true for spiritual growth, but it’s a practically applicable exercise for life as well. - Timothy/Tabitha: As much as we need someone pouring into us, we also need to be pouring into others. As we grow and mature in Christ, we cannot keep that to ourselves. It’s intended to be shared so that others might benefit.
- Paul/Paula: We each need someone in our lives who is a little further ahead and
Yes, you have something incredible to offer because Christ has something incredible to offer through you. I’ll talk about Barnabas next week, but today’s challenge is simply
this: Who’s your Paul? And who’s your Timothy? You might have more than one. You might not have either … yet.