84 - Paul and the Early Church Mature Spiritually [b]

The conversion of Saul on the road to Damascus is the historical account of an event that had enormous consequences for the Church. Paul's entourage witnessed this event on their way to round up and persecute believing Jews. Saul was blinded, emotionally stunned, and intellectually challenged. Intense prayer and fasting were the result of Saul's narrowed focus on the ramifications of this event. After strengthening with food, Saul immediately preached Christ in the synagogues. What does it mean to "preach Christ?" What is the difference between preaching and teaching? What was the response? What are the parallels in Paul's message and the first message of Jesus when He taught in Nazareth? What is the importance of our physical and spiritual strengthening to the message the Church carries to the world?