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The Heart of Paul Looking at Paul’s heart (his emotion) one can see what he treasured (cf. Matt. 6:21)—he loved others, especially his brethren in Christ, loved the truth, and loved God and such is evident by his tears. |
The Heart of Paul
Looking at Paul’s heart (his emotion) one can see what he treasured (cf. Matt. 6:21)—he loved others, especially his brethren in Christ, loved the truth, and loved God and such is evident by his tears.
- He Cried Over The Spiritual Condition Of Others (Rom. 9:1-3; 10:1). He desired and longed for the salvation of others. Do we feel the same towards others that are lost? Do we share the same urgency (Rom. 1:15-16; 1 Tim. 1:12; 2 Tim. 2:4; 2 Pet. 3:9)?
- He Cried When He Rebuked Others (2 Cor. 2:4). He did not take joy in such; his letters were an expression of his love (2 Cor. 7:3, 7-10, 12). Does our love show (Eph. 4:15; Prov. 27:5-6)?
- He Cried When He Preached (Acts 20:30-31). His example shows he was a faithful watchman (Eze. 33:6-7), he was impartial (1 Tim. 5:21), he was constant and untiring (Eze. 3:17-21), and he was compassionate (Eze. 3:15). Are we emotionally involved?
- He Cried When He Thought Of Enemies Of The Cross (Phil. 3:8; Acts 20:19). Paul’s enemies were those that stood opposed to the truth: they destroyed themselves and others who heard and followed them. Yet his prayer was not for retribution or comfort, but for the cause of Christ (Eph. 6:18-20; Col. 4:3-4; 2 Thess 3:1-2). Does error/opposition bring us to tears?
- He Cried When He Thought Of The Hardships Of Others (Rom. 12:15; 2 Tim. 1:4). Paul’s care for individuals and congregations is evident in his writings; he did not belittle the problems of others in light of his own but rather put them first (2 Cor. 11:23-28); he was merciful/sympathetic (Matt. 5:7) and like Christ had a tender heart (Phil. 2:4-8). Do we care for others?
