It’s not just the polished version we often share when asked to give a “testimony,” but the raw, unfiltered narrative—complete with moments of doubt, pivotal turning points, and quiet transformations. It’s the story of how Jesus encountered you, transformed your life, and continues to work in you today.
In Galatians 1:11–24, the Apostle Paul shares a significant part of his life story. This isn’t just background information; it’s his way of demonstrating that the gospel he preaches is rooted in God’s grace, not human tradition. As we delve into Paul’s narrative, we are reminded that each of us possesses a story worth sharing. When we share these stories within a community of faith, they inspire others and point to God’s continuous work in the world.
Here are four parts of Paul’s story that can help shape how we think about and share our own.
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Christ Revealed (vv. 11–12)
“For I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that the gospel preached by me is not of human origin. For I did not receive it from a human source and I was not taught it, but it came by a revelation of Jesus Christ.” (CSB)
Paul’s introduction to Jesus was dramatic. He had a blinding vision of the risen Christ on the road to Damascus (as seen in Acts 9), which completely transformed his life.
While most of us don’t experience a dramatic conversion, we do have moments—sometimes subtle, sometimes intense—when the truth of Jesus breaks through and changes everything. For me, it was a dream. For others, it might have been a song, a painful season, a conversation with a friend, or a quiet conviction during worship.
Regardless of the moment, Jesus made himself known to you. Why did you decide to follow him? That moment holds significant importance.
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The Past Renounced (vv. 13–14)
“For you have heard about my former way of life in Judaism: I intensely persecuted God’s church and tried to destroy it. I advanced in Judaism beyond many contemporaries among my people, because I was extremely zealous for the traditions of my ancestors.” (CSB)
Before Jesus, Paul was deeply committed to his religious tradition, so much so that he attempted to destroy the early church. However, when he met Jesus, everything changed—his values, goals, and sense of purpose.
We may not have personally persecuted the church, but we all lived with misguided zeal. Perhaps it was driven by the desire for success, comfort, image, or escape. Regardless of the reason, Jesus called us to abandon this misguided pursuit. Following him necessitated a reordering of our priorities.
Reflect on how your life has changed since you began following Jesus.
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The Mind Renewed (vv. 15–17)
“But when God, who from my mother’s womb set me apart and called me by his grace, was pleased to reveal his Son in me, so that I could preach him among the Gentiles, I did not immediately consult with anyone. I did not go up to Jerusalem to those who had become apostles before me; instead I went to Arabia and came back to Damascus.” (CSB)
Paul’s transformation wasn’t merely external; it encompassed a profound renewal of his entire thought process. What he once perceived as noble—persecution in defense of tradition—he now viewed as a rebellion against God. As Paul’s faith in Christ grew, his mind was profoundly shaped by the gospel.
This same transformative power is at work in our lives. When we immerse ourselves in Scripture, engage in prayerful reflection, and actively participate in community, our thoughts, desires, and actions begin to align with Jesus’ character. We gain a clearer understanding of truth, experience a deeper love, and cease to be driven by worldly concerns, instead seeking God’s will.
Reflect on the changes you are witnessing in your heart and mind as you follow Jesus.
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Believers Rejoiced (vv. 18–24)
“Then after three years I did go up to Jerusalem to get to know Cephas, and I stayed with him fifteen days. But I didn’t see any of the other apostles except James, the Lord’s brother. I declare in the sight of God: I am not lying in what I write to you.
“Afterward, I went to the regions of Syria and Cilicia. I remained personally unknown to the Judean churches that are in Christ. They simply kept hearing, ‘He who formerly persecuted us now preaches the faith he once tried to destroy.’ And they glorified God because of me.” (CSB)
After several years of transformation, Paul visited Jerusalem and met with Peter and James. News spread that the one who had once persecuted them was now preaching the faith he had once tried to destroy. In response, the believers rejoiced.
Our stories have the power to inspire praise. When people witness God at work in our lives—transforming our character, healing our wounds, and calling us to mission—it strengthens their faith.
Your story matters. Even if it feels ordinary to you, God is using it to make a difference in the lives of others. Who has been influenced by your journey with Jesus?
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Take some time to reflect on your journey with Jesus. How has He revealed Himself to you? What have you left behind? How has your perspective changed? How is your life influencing others?
You might not perceive your story as dramatic or exciting, but that doesn’t diminish its significance. In God’s grand narrative of love and redemption, every testimony holds value. Your story could be the catalyst that inspires someone else to persevere in their faith.
So, don’t be hesitant to share your story. Let your life serve as a beacon, guiding others towards the One who transforms everything.
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