…what then does it mean to “live accordingly”?

The apostle Paul (formerly Saul) was once determined to rid the ancient Jewish world of—what would come to be known as—Christianity. On the road to Damascus, he was knocked off his horse, by an unseen force. He was heading to this large outpost in a rage, devoutly committed to arresting any belonging to “the Way” (the original term used to describe Christ-followers).

Christ, Himself, confronted Saul that day on the road, but rather than sending “fire and brimstone” or condemning him, Jesus simply asked a question, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” Notice, first, the use of Saul’s name, spoken twice. It has been suggested that this was a means of assuring the listener’s utmost attention. This type of address is used countless times in the bible, often by God, as He called to Abraham, Jacob, Moses, and the prophet, Samuel.

Jesus is intent on having Saul hear him out.

Secondly, Jesus says that Saul is persecuting Him, not just Jesus’ followers. This should give us pause to reflect upon the sovereign protection of God on His people.

Jesus is making it clear: you mess with them, you mess with Me.

Saul is converted through this intervention and he is given a very specific assignment—to declare the salvation of God, specifically to the non-Jews. Jesus was intent on—not stifling, but rather—using Saul’s intense fervor, redirected. No longer was it Saul’s personal agenda (no matter how noble it may have initially appeared); it was now God’s agenda.

Somewhere along the way Saul’s name was changed to Paul. This Jewish zealot, who was the epitome of a Pharisee and devout Jew, later said, “But whatever gain I had (being a Pharisee and “good” Jew), I counted as loss for the sake of Christ. Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake, I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ…” (Philippians 3:7, 8)

That’s what it means to “live accordingly”.

Paul recognized—finally—that life—real life—was not about accomplishing his own personal agenda, or succeeding in fulfilling his own personal goals, or securing his own personal fan base, or mutual-appreciation society, or even doing things he thought honored God! Instead, Jesus showed him that real life is found in seeking first God’s kingdom—His agenda, His purposes, His glorification, His will in all things.

Together, we’ll explore life and endeavor to become more like Paul in his fervor and focus; and, ultimately, to become more like Jesus in His absolute obedience and humility. In other words: to “live accordingly”.

Who knows what we’ll find, but I believe scripture guarantees we will be able to say at the end of our life, like Paul said at the end of his life, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth [that is: accordingly] there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.” (2 Tim 3:7)

God matters most. I’m on a journey to “live accordingly”.

So…are you coming along?

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