Overview:
Have you ever experienced a season of waiting on the Lord? Most individuals would never choose that. And yet, God does exceptional work through our extended waiting. Tune in to hear Pastor Chuck Swindoll teach from Acts 11 about one of God’s favorite methods of preparing an individual for effective ministry: protracted periods of waiting. God refined Saul for many years before He called him out of the shadows. Take heart as you wait and trust God’s plans and promises.
Message Summary:
In “Out of the Shadows,” Pastor Chuck Swindoll explores a pivotal yet often overlooked period in the life of the apostle Paul (then known as Saul). Following his dramatic conversion and a brief, intense ministry, Saul spent years in obscurity—hidden away in Tarsus.
This message focuses on the “waiting rooms” of life. While we often view seasons of silence or anonymity as wasted time, Chuck Swindoll demonstrates through Acts 11 that these are actually God’s “refining fires.” It was during these years in the shadows that God transformed Saul’s “grit” into a vessel of “grace,” preparing him for the global mission that would eventually change the course of history.Message Key Facts:
- The Setting: The city of Antioch, which became the first great center of Gentile Christianity and the launching pad for the early church’s missions.
- The Waiting Period: Saul spent roughly seven to ten years in Tarsus before being called into active, public leadership by Barnabas.
- The Role of Barnabas: Known as the “Son of Encouragement,” Barnabas was the catalyst who sought Saul out, recognizing that his unique gifts were exactly what the growing church in Antioch needed.
- A New Identity: This period in Antioch is where the followers of Jesus were first called “Christians” (Acts 11:26).
Message References:
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Seeking Saul in Tarsus The primary text detailing the growth of the church in Antioch and Barnabas traveling to Tarsus to bring Saul “out of the shadows.”
- Scripture: Acts 11:19–26
- Scripture: Galatians 1:15–24
- Scripture: Acts 9:26–30
Core Principles for Life
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Preparation Takes Time: God is never in a hurry. He values the development of our character more than the speed of our production.
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Obscurity is Not Absence: Being "in the shadows" does not mean God has forgotten you; it means He is protecting and preparing you.
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The Need for Encouragers: Everyone needs a "Barnabas"—someone who sees potential in others and is willing to share the spotlight to bring them forward.
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Sovereign Timing: When God’s timing meets our preparation, the result is an effective, sustainable ministry that honors Him.
