Josh McGuire - “Saul, Saul & You” | Austin CFC | 2024-01-12
Summary
The sermon uses the comparison of Old Testament King Saul and New Testament Paul (Saul) to illustrate a central message: every person, including the listener, is reflected in the narratives of Scripture. Both men started humbly but rose to great power and displayed intense zeal. The speaker encourages the audience to examine their own lives through these biblical figures to see what God wants to reveal about them.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Looking at three figures: Old Testament Saul, New Testament Saul, and YouThe speaker introduces a study of three individuals to show how biblical characters act as mirrors reflecting our own hearts and lives.
Both started with a humble beginningBoth men began in lowly positions before eventually rising to places of great authority and power.
Both came from the Tribe of Benjamin and persecuted those from JudahThe two Sauls shared the same tribal heritage and both aggressively opposed someone from the tribe of Judah.
Who sits on the throne?King Saul fought to build his own kingdom and erected monuments to himself, whereas the New Testament Saul counted everything as loss compared to knowing Christ as King.
A different concern about human opinionKing Saul was deeply worried about his reputation and what people thought of him, while Paul cared only for the examination and approval of God.
A different attitude toward deathFaced with defeat, King Saul committed suicide out of fear of being mocked by his enemies, while Paul viewed death with a desire to either be with Christ or remain to serve others.
How do we respond when we fail?When King Saul was confronted with his disobedience, he justified himself and blamed the people, unlike a repentant believer who quickly confesses sin and moves on.
The crossroads of confrontationWhen Jesus confronted Saul on the road to Damascus, he surrendered immediately without making excuses, providing a clear contrast to King Saul's self-justification.
Finishing well with Christ-centered humilityThe message concludes with an encouragement to stay humble, give up our reputation and self-importance, and live entirely before the face of God.
