Saul’s Mission

Summary

Summary of "Saul’s Mission" - The Jesus Podcast

Release Date: June 19, 2025

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Introduction

In the episode titled "Saul’s Mission," The Jesus Podcast by Pray.com delves into the transformative journey of Saul, a former persecutor of Christians who becomes the Apostle Paul. This dramatized narrative, inspired by Acts 9:26-31, offers a compelling exploration of fear, acceptance, redemption, and the power of community within the early Christian church.

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Saul’s Return to Jerusalem

[00:00 - 03:29]

The episode opens with Saul, previously known as a zealous inquisitor against Christians, making his way back to Jerusalem. Once a respected prince of the Hebrews, Saul now enters the holy city as an outcast. The vibrant sunrise, once a source of awe, now induces anxiety within him. Fearful of recognition and ostracism, Saul hides his identity, reflecting on his past actions and the weight of his sins.

• Quote: "[01:59] Saul: Go before me, Lord."
  Saul expresses his internal struggle and reliance on divine guidance as he approaches a community he once persecuted.

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Confrontation and Shame

[03:29 - 05:19]

Saul attempts to gain acceptance by approaching the dwelling of James, the half-brother of Jesus. However, his past actions speak louder than his present intentions. The community, remembering Saul’s cruelty, rejects his plea for acceptance. Overwhelmed by shame and fear, Saul retreats into the shadows, grappling with the realization that his past makes his present untrustworthy in the eyes of others.

• Quote: "[05:19] Barnabas: Ecclesiastes said that a good name is better than precious ointment, and better is the day of a man's death than the day of his birth. That's because who we were is nowhere near as important as who we become."
  Barnabas emphasizes the transformative potential of an individual, highlighting that one's present character holds more significance than past deeds.

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The Comfort of Barnabas

[05:57 - 09:12]

In his moment of despair, Saul encounters Barnabas, aptly named "Son of Encouragement." Barnabas extends a hand of friendship, recognizing Saul's genuine conversion despite his notorious past. He introduces Saul to Peter, an esteemed leader among the apostles, advocating for Saul’s acceptance. This act of kindness serves as a pivotal moment, demonstrating the power of grace and the willingness to see beyond one's previous actions.

• Quote: "[07:45] Peter: The others will come around to see what I see. Just give them time. Saul."
  Peter reassures Saul, indicating that acceptance within the community will follow Barnabas’s initial support.

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Meeting with Peter

[06:39 - 10:37]

Barnabas leads Saul to Peter's home, where Saul shares his transformative encounter with Jesus and his newfound purpose. Peter listens intently, offering wisdom and affirming Saul’s genuine change of heart. They discuss Saul’s desire to learn and grow within the Christian faith, with Peter promising to introduce him to further teachings and the broader community.

• Quote: "[08:14] Peter: Ah, but let he who is without sin sin cast the first stone."
  Peter introduces a message of mercy and forgiveness, aligning with Jesus's teachings and reinforcing the theme of redemption.

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Acceptance and Fellowship

[09:12 - 14:36]

Saul is warmly received into the community, sharing meals and conversations with Peter and Barnabas. Despite their vastly different backgrounds—Peter as a humble fisherman and Saul as an educated Pharisee—their interactions underscore the unity and diversity within the early church. Saul begins to internalize the teachings of Jesus, finding solace and purpose in the fellowship.

• Quote: "[14:14] James: My wife is preparing some fish I caught yesterday, and we have freshly pressed oil to enjoy with some bread. Such a feast would go to waste without company. Join us."
  James extends a personal invitation to Saul, symbolizing the inclusive and welcoming nature of the Christian community.

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Saul’s Ministry in Jerusalem

[14:36 - 18:40]

Empowered by his experiences and teachings, Saul emerges as a passionate preacher in Jerusalem. He fervently proclaims the Gospel, engaging in debates and discussions within synagogues and marketplaces. His oratory skills and deep conviction draw both interest and ire, highlighting the challenges of transforming from persecutor to proponent of the faith.

• Quote: "[18:27] James: Pined after since the days of David has come. The prophecies testify to it, and the life of Jesus proves it. All that is left is to repent and be saved."
  Saul’s declaration emphasizes the fulfillment of prophecies through Jesus and the call to repentance and salvation.

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Rising Opposition and Plotting

[18:40 - 21:53]

Saul's bold preaching, however, ignites anger among his former peers—the Pharisees. They view him as a traitor and a threat to their established order. A clandestine plot forms to eliminate Saul, wary of his influence and the disruption his message brings. The tension escalates as religious leaders seek a covert means to silence him without drawing Roman attention.

• Quote: "[21:13] James: That traitor will meet the same fate as Stephen."
  James references the martyrdom of Stephen to justify the need to eliminate Saul discreetly.

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Assassination Attempt and Escape

[21:13 - 25:49]

Under the cover of night, an assassination attempt is orchestrated against Saul. Ananias, the high priest, collaborates with guards to carry out the plan. Just as Saul is about to be killed, Silas emerges as a protector, creating a diversion by hurling stones at the conspirators. This act of bravery allows Saul to escape unnoticed, highlighting the ongoing spiritual warfare and the ever-present threats faced by early Christians.

• Quote: "[24:42] Saul: My name is Silas. Peter has sent me here. The Jewish leaders want you dead, and three assassins are waiting outside as we speak."
  Silas informs Saul of the immediate danger, setting the stage for his daring rescue.

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Departure to Tarsus

[25:49 - 26:58]

Recognizing the peril in Jerusalem, Saul is escorted to the safety of a ship bound for his hometown, Tarsus. This journey symbolizes a temporary retreat from the epicenter of Christian activity, but also serves as a period for reflection and preparation for future missions. Saul’s departure underscores the theme of perseverance and faith amidst adversity.

• Quote: "[26:58] Saul bowed his head to the man and thanked him for his kindness. For the next few hours, Saul lay under the tarp. The road from Jerusalem to Caesarea was sometimes bumpy, giving Saul even more bruises, but they finally made it to the corner."
  Saul’s gratitude and resilience are evident as he prepares to leave Jerusalem, embracing his destiny with unwavering faith.

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Reflections and Insights

[28:23 - 32:54]

Barnabas concludes the dramatized story with reflections on Saul's tumultuous journey, drawing parallels to modern experiences of faith, acceptance, and transformation. He highlights the significance of Barnabas’s encouragement, the importance of community support, and the challenges of overcoming past reputations. The narrative emphasizes that true transformation is possible through grace and that embracing those who have changed strengthens the entire community.

• Key Insights:

  • Grace and Redemption: Barnabas’s unwavering support for Saul illustrates the power of grace in accepting and uplifting those who seek redemption.

  • Community and Unity: The early church’s diversity and willingness to embrace transformed individuals foster a strong, united community.

  • Overcoming Fear and Skepticism: The story encourages listeners to move beyond fear and skepticism, advocating for a welcoming attitude towards change and repentance.

  • Perseverance in Faith: Saul’s resilience in the face of opposition serves as a testament to the enduring strength of faith and purpose.

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Conclusion

"Saul’s Mission" is a profound exploration of transformation, acceptance, and the profound impact of community support in the journey of faith. Through Saul’s narrative, The Jesus Podcast underscores the enduring message that no one is beyond redemption and that collective encouragement can inspire remarkable change. This episode invites listeners to reflect on their own capacity for grace and the importance of embracing those who seek to transform their lives for the better.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• "[01:59] Saul: Go before me, Lord."
• "[05:19] Barnabas: Ecclesiastes said that a good name is better than precious ointment, and better is the day of a man's death than the day of his birth. That's because who we were is nowhere near as important as who we become."
• "[08:14] Peter: Ah, but let he who is without sin sin cast the first stone."
• "[14:14] James: My wife is preparing some fish I caught yesterday, and we have freshly pressed oil to enjoy with some bread. Such a feast would go to waste without company. Join us."
• "[18:27] James: Pined after since the days of David has come. The prophecies testify to it, and the life of Jesus proves it. All that is left is to repent and be saved."
• "[21:13] James: That traitor will meet the same fate as Stephen."
• "[24:42] Saul: My name is Silas. Peter has sent me here. The Jewish leaders want you dead, and three assassins are waiting outside as we speak."
• "[26:58] Saul bowed his head to the man and thanked him for his kindness. For the next few hours, Saul lay under the tarp. The road from Jerusalem to Caesarea was sometimes bumpy, giving Saul even more bruises, but they finally made it to the corner."

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This comprehensive summary captures the essence of the episode, highlighting key moments, character developments, and the overarching themes of redemption and community within the early Christian church. Whether you're a devoted Christian or someone curious about the Bible, "Saul’s Mission" offers rich insights into the transformative power of faith and the importance of embracing change.

Transcript

[Narrator]

I have been crucified with Christ and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. Heavenly Father, we thank you for the gift of freedom through Christ who has crucified our sins and shame on the cross. We are no longer bound by the weight of our past, but walk as free people, redeemed and renewed by your grace. Lord, we acknowledge our deep need for you and ask that you guide our hearts to fully embrace this freedom, living in a way that honors you. Strengthen us to pursue what is right, to seek Christ daily and to be a light in this world. Empower us to live boldly in this new life, reflecting your love and truth in all we do in Jesus name. Amen. Thank you for praying with me today. You're listening to the Jesus Podcast. Remain here for another dramatized story inspired by the Book of Acts and the birth of the Church. If this podcast has blessed you, make sure to follow so you never have to miss an episode Every step leading up to the gates of Jerusalem was heavy and filled with angst. Saul, a once heralded prince of the Hebrews, entered the holy city as a pariah and outcast. The candescent hues of sunrise bouncing off the temple rooftop no longer sent chills up Saul's back. He was not filled with awe, but anxiousness. He was unsure if any friends were awaiting him in Jerusalem. The Sanhedrin weren't safe, and the people of the Way only knew Saul as an inquisitor.

[Saul]

Go before me, Lord.

[James]

Grant me favor in this city.

[Narrator]

The newly risen sun splashed the city in brilliant orange. People exited their homes and into the marketplaces, and Saul could not feel more alone. It would only be a matter of time before someone recognized him. He kept the hood of his cloak over his head and weaved through the busy streets. The morning was still young, meaning the city's believers were most likely enjoying prayer with one another before departing to their work. Saul navigated the streets of Jerusalem, taking steps leading down to the city's eastern side. Hung together with several other homes, was the dwelling place of James, the half brother of Jesus himself. Saul knew how to get there because his intention one day was to break down the doors and drag every believer into the streets. Instead, he found himself standing at the door, afraid to knock, desperately desiring their acceptance. Saul had hurt the people on the other side of the door. Some of them had even lost loved ones because of his cruelty. Why would they ever believe his conversion? His hand shook as he raised it to the wooden door. He made a fist, knocked three times, and stepped back.

[James]

I. I come in peace. It may be difficult for you to believe this, but I have met the Lord Jesus himself. I am a new man.

[Barnabas]

A wolf in sheep's clothing.

[Narrator]

We don't believe you.

[James]

If you've come to harm us, please take me instead.

[Narrator]

Please do not harm my children. A young man opened the door and gasped at the sight of him. He retreated into the room with the rest of the gathering. The entire group looked out to see the Reaper himself standing at the door. Women held their children, and men stood in front to protect them. Everyone fell silent as Saul stood speechless at the door. Saul took a brave step forward. Saul was cut to the heart. He had received a warm embrace in Damascus, but was treated with disdain in Jerusalem. He looked at one of the children. Fear filled her wide and innocent gaze. Saul could see his past sins reflecting back at him through her eyes. It was overwhelming. Overcome by with shame, Saul retreated. He turned the corner and leaned against a stone wall. Hidden in the shadows, he slid down to the ground. Tears of heartache streamed down his cheeks and onto the cold stone floor. His former friends were now his enemies, and his former enemies did not trust him. He was alone.

[Barnabas]

Ecclesiastes said that a good name is better than precious ointment, and better is the day of a man's death than the day of his birth. That's because who we were is nowhere near as important as who we become. Welcome to the Jesus Podcast. We've been spending this month on a miniseries through the birth of the church. Today we're diving into a story Inspired by Acts 9:26 31, a passage that might make you chuckle, think deeply, and perhaps see your fellow believers in a new light. It's a story about fear, acceptance, and the surprising ways God knits us together. Let's go.

[Narrator]

Saul's face was buried in his hands in shame. He remained in the shadows for a long while, lamenting to the Lord and begging for forgiveness. He knew the blood of Christ redeemed him, but the memories of his past still left a lingering sting. As Saul sat in the shadow of his past, he could hear footsteps approaching. Coming around the corner was a man about his age. He had curls on the top of his receding hairline and a distinct dimple in his left cheek. Saul peered at him, wondering where he had seen him before.

[Peter]

Ah, Saul of Darcis. You left James House so quick, I did not have a chance to introduce myself.

[Narrator]

The man extended his hand to Saul and lifted him to his feet.

[Peter]

My name is Barnabas, and it is a joy to finally meet you, Barnabas. Have I seen you before?

[James]

Eh?

[Peter]

Perhaps you may have seen me at the synagogue in Damascus. I was passing through, visiting some of the gatherings outside Jerusalem and just so happened to hear you teach in the synagogue. It was very, very good, Saul. I could hear your passion and your conviction for the Lord. You boldly used your position to proclaim the name of Jesus. It is very, very clear. He has met with you.

[Narrator]

Saul was sent speechless. In moments, Barnabas had made Saul feel seen, known and supported all at once. Overwhelmed with relief, Saul embraced Barnabas and wept on his shoulders. Barnabas chuckled and patted Saul on the back.

[Peter]

The others will come around to see what I see. Just give them time. Saul.

[Narrator]

Saul. White tears away from his eyes and shook his head.

[James]

I was responsible for the imprisonment and death of their loved ones. Their right to judge me for my sins. They have every right to cast stones in my direction for what I have done.

[Peter]

Ah, but let he who is without sin sin cast the first stone.

[James]

What proverb is that?

[Peter]

That soul is from Jesus himself. He taught us the true meaning of mercy's triumph over judgment. No one is without sin. And we ought to forgive as we have been forgiven.

[James]

I still have much to learn about who Jesus is. I did not get to walk with him, eat with him and follow him as many of you did. I was hoping I could come here to learn, glean, then sit under the teaching of Christ.

[Peter]

That can be arranged. That can be arranged. My nephew John Mark is a student of Simon Peter. I will take you to them tomorrow. That is, after we've shared a meal and had some rest.

[Narrator]

Barnabas took Saul to Peter's home. They walked the busy streets of Jerusalem together, greeting vendors and shopkeepers as they passed through the marketplace. As they reached Barnabas home, they shared a meal under a dim lamplight. Barnabas home was humble and suitable enough for a man with no wife or children. Saul recounted his encounter with Jesus and his time alone in Arabia. He shared his heart for the lost and his desire to see everyone know the love of Jesus, even the Gentiles. Barnabas was a captive audience, hanging on every word. He did not share the same dynamic personality as Saul. He was a quiet counselor and an attentive listener. They spoke about Jesus, the Resurrection and the Great Commission into the night. Barnabas shared all he knew about Jesus, words and ministry, but confessed his knowledge was nothing compared to the apostles.

[Peter]

They were with him every day. They beheld his miracles. They sat beside the fire as he spoke. When they speak, it is with the same cadence and Warmth as the Master himself.

[James]

Are you sure they will listen to me?

[Narrator]

Barnabas tilted his head and pondered the question.

[Peter]

I think you are the one who needs to listen, Saul. Tomorrow I will take you to see Peter.

[Narrator]

Barnabas led Saul up the stairs into the upper room of Peter's home. A crowd had gathered in the room, sitting shoulder to shoulder as Peter stood at the front. Saul had seen Peter once before in the hall of polished stones. His skin was scarred by hours of fishing in the hot sun. He spoke with a rustic Galilean accent that contrasted with the refined Tarsian accent of Saul. His prose was not as polished as Saul's, nor was his knowledge of the prophets as extensive. But he had something Saul desperately wanted. Years at the feet of Jesus, Peter retold stories of Jesus acts and shared lessons from observing his life. He was not a perfect speaker, but he spoke with the authority of a man who had been with Jesus. After Peter was done teaching, he gestured for some young men to pass out bread and wine to everyone in the crowd. He held the elements up and blessed them. He tore the bread first.

[James]

The body that was broken for us.

[Narrator]

He said, and everyone ate. He lifted a cup and blessed it.

[James]

Saying, the blood that was shed for the remission of our sins.

[Narrator]

He sipped it and passed it around for others to drink. After taking communion, everyone left for their homes, workplaces, and families. Everyone but Saul and Barnabas. The room cleared, and Peter's gaze locked immediately onto Saul. The rough fisherman stepped forward curiously.

[James]

Saul of Doris, have you come to take me back to the Sanhedrin?

[Narrator]

Before Saul could say anything, Barnabas stepped forward and spoke on his behalf.

[Peter]

I have brought Saul here to speak with you, Peter. I have heard his testimony, and I have found it to be true. I tell you, Jesus himself has called this man on his way to Damascus to persecute our brethren. The Lord. Lord appeared to him in light. Since then, Saul has pored over the Scriptures to find Jesus and even testified to his name in the synagogue.

[James]

You've witnessed this?

[Peter]

I have, and I can attest to his changed heart.

[Narrator]

Saul was taken aback by how aggressively Barnabas was advocating for him. Yet that was the character Barnabas. He saw the potential in people instead of their pasts. He saw their future instead of their failures.

[Peter]

Peter, you of all people know what Jesus is capable of. Look at the way he restored you. All I ask is that you speak to him yourself and discern what God is doing.

[Narrator]

Peter was silent for a moment, although it seemed like hours to Saul. He stepped forward to Saul and looked him up and down, he peered at him as if he were trying to see beyond his appearance and straight into his heart. His intense gaze broke and a smile appeared on the sides of his cheeks.

[James]

My wife is preparing some fish I caught yesterday, and we have freshly pressed oil to enjoy with some bread. Such a feast would go to waste without company. Join us.

[Narrator]

Saul was surprised. He looked at Barnabas, then back at Peter.

[James]

I would be honored to join you.

[Narrator]

So the two of them departed Together. They spoke about trivial things, like the best place to buy bread in the city and the treats they enjoyed most as children. Saul couldn't help but notice the contrast between Peter, a revered leader of this powerful movement, and the Pharisee he grew up with. Peter was humble, a man of the earth and a true fisherman if he had ever met one. He was personable and didn't carry himself like the head of a religious sect. Saul wondered if this was was what it was like to walk with Jesus. Saul entered the humble home of Peter's family. His wife had finished preparing a meal over the fire, and a small table sat at the edge of the gathering room. Saul had now been in the home of three prominent church leaders in Jerusalem. All of them were uninspiring, without any sign of wealth or status. The contrast with the Pharisees was undeniable. Peter, Saul and his wife reclined at the table and blessed the food. They thanked the Lord for his provision and praised him for his goodness. After a blessing, they enjoyed the meal together. Peter asked questions about Saul's childhood in Tarsus, leading up to becoming a member of the Sanhedrin. Saul asked Peter about his childhood as a fisherman in Galilee. The two could not have had a greater distance between them in education, profession and social circles. Yet here they were, sharing a table and connecting as brothers. Peter's wisdom compelled Saul, and Peter was convinced of Paul's conversion. On the road to Damascus, Saul felt comfortable addressing what had gone unspoken as the night drew on. For the next two weeks, they walked the streets of Jerusalem and talked about Jesus. Peter took him to the Mount of Olives, where Jesus was betrayed. He led him up to Golgotha, where he was crucified. They knelt by the empty tomb and Peter shared his thoughts about the resurrection. He sat with him by the fire and told him about Christ's glorious vision of the Kingdom of God, loving enemies and reconciling creation with the Creator. Saul savored every word like it was a for living. After all, it was. He asked questions, prayed, and searched the Scriptures to get a fuller view of the God he had come to love. Saul had gleaned a tremendous amount from Peter, and the two developed honor and respect for one another. Saul set out passionately in Jerusalem with a newfound insight gained from his time with Peter. Each synagogue and marketplace resounded with Saul's voice, proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus. Saul stuck to what he knew, rhetoric and debate. He disputed with the Hellenists, those whose native tongue was Greek. He met in their synagogues and reasoned with them about the resurrection of the Messiah as prophesied in the Scriptures. He preached boldly and without compromise, fueled by the Spirit and equipped with the words of Jesus, the Messiah you have.

[James]

Pined after since the days of David has come. The prophecies testify to it, and the life of Jesus proves it. All that is left is to repent and be saved.

[Narrator]

Saul declared these things in the courtyard outside the temple. His words were like sparks flying into the dry brush. The people were ignited with anger at his words. He paused, scanned the crowd. He saw a sea of people whose faces were red with rage. In the back of the multitude was a group of men adorned with blue fringed robes and leather amulets. The Pharisees, his former colleagues, cast hatred and malice his way. It was then Saul realized just how far he had come. The last time he was in the city, he stood where they stood, casting judgment at the disciples.

[James]

I was once where you stood in this courtyard, casting aspersions on a man named Stephen. But I have come to know the truth, my brothers. I beg you to see what I have seen and look past your pride.

[Narrator]

Despite Paul's passionate and reasonable speeches, the Jews would not budge. His presence only seemed to harden their hearts.

[James]

Traitor.

[Peter]

Worse than a tax collector.

[Narrator]

Their ridicule meant very little to Saul, for he knew their hearts. The hatred and pride boiling within them almost took Saul's soul. And it would take theirs as well. Their anger did not stop him. Saul continued to preach from dawn until dusk in the synagogues and courtyards. As he spoke and argued with the people, he was reminded of Stephen's tactics. Using loving speech and never forgetting those who were suffering. Saul ministered to the people in need by day and at night he sat under the teaching of Peter or Barnabas. He intended to remain in Jerusalem to aid the church as a minister to the Hellenists. But he was unaware that a plot against his life but being planned in the shadows, the same men who stood behind Saul when he persecuted the people of the Way were breathing threats against his life. In a small room attached to the hall of polished stones. Ananias, the high priest, presided over a group of Pharisees and hired guards.

[James]

That traitor will meet the same fate as Stephen.

[Narrator]

A public execution would only inspire more of them.

[James]

Yes, he must be killed secretly, and the Romans must never find out.

[Narrator]

They did not feel comfortable persecuting Saul in the same way they did the others, for Saul was a Roman citizen and protected by their laws. Ananias leaned over the table, seething with anger. His breaths were heavy and weighted down with hatred. He loathed Sol more than anyone in the world.

[Peter]

His death should be in the shadows. A public death would be too good for him. I do not want him to be remembered as some martyr for the cause like Steven. I want the name Soul of Tarsus to be forgotten, erased from the annals of history. It would be a fitting punishment for someone who spent so much of his.

[Saul]

Life trying to make a name for himself.

[Narrator]

Ananias leaned back and gestured to one of the chief guards.

[Peter]

Take three of your stealthiest men and kill him in the shadows.

[Narrator]

The chief bowed his head and left the room. Ananias rubbed his temples and groaned. Ah, Jesus of Nazareth.

[Peter]

When will he be forgotten?

[Narrator]

The coals from the fire were dimly radiating a mere memory of warmth. Saul was huddled by the coals with a blanket over his shoulders, watching the last coal flicker out. He closed his eyes, inhaled a deep breath, and then exhaled a final prayer before drifting to sleep. The days had made his body and mind weary. Saul was becoming attuned to the spiritual warfare being waged around him. His battle was not against flesh and blood, but against an evil far more sinister, something hidden and at work in the hearts of mankind. Saul fell into a deep sleep, recouping strength for the next day. The night drew on and the stars lit up the heavens with splendor. All of Jerusalem was fast asleep. All but a few. A shrouded figure was running through the alleyways of Jerusalem outside the home of Barnabas. The man was young and agile enough to sprint through the streets with little to no noise. The young man scaled the wall of the house and entered through the window of the upper room. He slid in without a sound and quietly stepped down the stairs to where Paul was sleeping. The young man took a hand and stretched it toward the sleeping Paul. With a quick jolt, he placed one hand over Saul's mouth. Saul squirmed, ready to let out a scream. The young man put a finger over his lips and hushed, Quiet soul.

[Saul]

They'll hear you.

[Narrator]

He removed his hood and tilted his face towards the last remaining embers he had no visible beard, and a few light curls dangled over his eyes.

[Saul]

My name is Silas. Peter has sent me here. The Jewish leaders want you dead, and three assassins are waiting outside as we speak.

[Narrator]

Saul gathered himself and stood to his feet. He peeked his head out the window. It was dark, but he saw three figures pacing in the shadows outside the house. What's your plan?

[Saul]

They're time to jump you and leave you for the well. They know you like to leave before sunrise. If I distract them, it will give you time to leave. Out the back. Down the road on the east side of the gate, a cart of salt and wine is being taken to the coast of Caesarea. It leaves at first light. We must get you on that cart and aboard the first ship back to Tarsus. It's the safest place for you right now.

[James]

Peter sent you?

[Saul]

Peter and the rest of the apostles. Although you've never met the rest of the 12, they know you very well. I suspect you will recommit with them again soon. But for now, we need to get you out of here. I'll remain in the shadows and toss stones at them from the other side of the alley while you make a break for it. There's no way they'll see me in the darkness.

[Narrator]

The two men tiptoed up the stairs into the upper room. Silas jumped from the roof of Barnabas home to the top beside it. He crouched down low and remained hidden. Finally, he took a few small stones in his hand and began hurling them toward the assassins. A commotion broke out and the three men were in a frenzy. Silas ran away before they had a chance to see him. Saul took the opportunity to scale down the other side and run for the gate. He stumbled in the darkness, tripping more than once in a hole or over a stone. Beat up cold and tired, Sol finally reached the east gate. The morning light was barely peeking over the horizon, giving Sol enough light to see a cart of salt and wine being loaded up to take to the coast. Saul approached the merchant with trepidation.

[Peter]

Brother Saul, the apostles told me you need safe passage to Caesarea. Climb in and remain hidden under the tarp.

[Narrator]

Saul bowed his head to the man and thanked him for his kindness. For the next few hours, Saul lay under the tarp. The road from Jerusalem to Caesarea was sometimes bumpy, giving Saul even more bruises, but they finally made it to the corner. Saul breathed in the fresh air and let the morning sun kiss his cheek. He looked back toward Jerusalem. The city was completely out of view. He had no idea when he would return. But somehow he knew it was in his destiny to reconnect with the Apostles. Saul boarded a ship that was bound for Tarsus. The crew released the mainsail and tightened up any remaining cargo. The coast disappeared from view. And it finally sunk in that Saul was headed back home. For the first time since leaving the hall of polished Stones, Living in Jerusalem, fleeing for his life, seemed like a defeat. But Saul kept his head high, tilted towards the sunrise. He knew deep in his bones he was not a victim of circumstance. He was more than a conqueror in Christ Jesus.

[Barnabas]

I want you to imagine for a second Saul's situation. After three years of preaching boldly about Jesus, following his dramatic conversion, he returns to Jerusalem, the epicenter of early Christianity, but also the hive in which the persecuting religious system exists. You'd think that there'd be banners, a welcome committee, maybe a potluck dinner for Paul. But instead, everyone's afraid of him. It says in Acts 9 that they were all afraid of him, not believing that he really was a disciple. Can you blame them? The last time everyone in Jerusalem saw Saul, he was more interested in throwing Christians into prison than joining their prayer meetings. It's like your childhood bully showing up at a birthday party. And he even brought more cake. Everyone's suspicious and no one wants to try the cake. But then comes Barnabas, whose name means Son of Encouragement. He takes Saul under his wing, brings him to the apostles and vouches his genuine conversion. Barnabas doesn't just see who Paul was. He sees who Saul has become in Christ and what he can become with more encouragement. Isn't it amazing how one person's acceptance can change everything? Barnabas didn't wait for a committee decision or a background check. He took a risk because he believed in the transformative power of Jesus. This story challenges us to consider our own openness to those who are new or different. Do we, like the early disciples, hold on to skepticism and fear? Or can we be like Barnabas, extending grace and fellowship? It's easy to label people based on their past, but God specializes in rewriting stories. Remember, Moses was a murderer. David was an adulterer. And yet they became great leaders. Saul's past didn't disqualify him. It became a testament to God's redemptive power. Once accepted, Saul doesn't waste time. He starts preaching boldly in Jerusalem, particularly to the Hellenistic Jews. But old habits die hard, and soon enough, another plot to kill him surfaces. It's almost humorous, isn't it? Everywhere Saul goes, a riot seems to follow. But this isn't a sign of failure. It's evidence of God's gospel power to disrupt the status quo. If you're stirring up that much opposition, you must be doing something right. I mean, after all, Jesus promised that his followers would be treated like him. If we're being faithful to follow in the footsteps of Jesus, it's not like everyone's going to love us, right? Not everybody loved Jesus, and so not everyone's going to love us. And in fact, sometimes the more faithful we are to preaching his gospel and proclaiming the light of the Lord, man, maybe the more darkness is going to press up against us, the more persecution we're going to face, the more people will dislike you. Now, as a people pleaser myself, that gives me anxiety. But the acceptance of the Lord in the community of believers who are also running hard for the gospel, that's worth it to me. The believers decide to send Saul off to Tarsus for his safety. Now Tarsus isn't just a hideout, it's Saul's hometown. He spends the next several years there, mostly off the radar. This period isn't wasted time, though. It's a season of growth, learning, and preparation. Sometimes God takes us into seasons of obscurity to refine us. And sometimes God wants to bring us back to the beginning. Sometimes he wants to bring you to your hometown. Sometimes he wants to bring that person from the past back into your life. I think sometimes God does this for the same reason he had Peter sit by the fire in order to redeem him. Sometimes Jesus wants to put us in the exact same context in which we failed. And he wants to give us the opportunity to try again in this time, succeed and be faithful. Finally, in Acts 9:31, it tells us that the church enjoyed a time of peace and was strengthened. It says that they lived in the fear of the Lord and, encouraged by the Holy Spirit and the church, increased in numbers. Notice the balance here. Fear and comfort, reverence and encouragement. You see, the early church wasn't complacent. During peaceful times. They walked in awe of God and leaned into the Spirit's guidance. The early church was a mosaic of personalities, backgrounds and stories, all united under Christ. Saul's integration into this community underscores the transformative power of grace and the importance of embracing one another, warts and all. Let's be a church that breaks down walls instead of building them, that welcomes the redeemed, just as Saul was welcomed by Barnabas. After all, in God's family there's room for everyone and Sometimes the biggest skeptics become the boldest proclaim.

[Ryan Seacrest]

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[Matt Potter]

This is Matt Potter from Prey Radio. The global phenomenon the Chosen has arrived. The table is set. The final hours are approaching and everything has led to this moment. Loyalties will be tested, friendships will be questioned, alliances will be broken and nothing will ever be the same. The end is just the beginning of this epic incredible true story. Don't miss the exciting new season, the Chosen Last Supper. Streaming now season five on Prime Video. For over 85 years, Cal Farley's Boys Ranch has met the needs of children and families at no cost to those we serve. Cal Farley's mission is to provide professional programs and services in a Christ centered atmosphere to strengthen families and support the overall development of children. Those interested in this calling can learn more and [e-mail] that's C-A L F A R L E-Y.org this is an iHeart podcast.