In the first lesson of the series *"Lessons from the Life of Paul"* (delivered May 6, 2026), Steve Bookout introduces a study focused primarily on the *life* of Paul/Saul rather than just his teachings. The lesson examines the pre-conversion Saul as a violent, zealous persecutor of the church. Steve walks through the biblical text (primarily Acts 7:54–8:3 and Acts 9:1-2), detailing Stephen’s martyrdom, Saul’s approval of it, and his aggressive campaign to destroy the church by dragging believers to prison and consenting to their deaths.

The lesson highlights Saul’s sincere but misguided zeal (acting “in good conscience” according to the Law as he understood it) and draws practical applications: God can sovereignly use even the evil actions of men for good (the persecution scattered believers who then spread the gospel), the necessity of bold proclamation of Christ even under pressure, and the danger of misplaced religious zeal. The class ends with encouragement to learn from Saul’s transformation and to actively teach Jesus so the church can grow.

What was Saul of Tarsus like before his dramatic conversion? In this opening lesson of the series, Steve Bookout takes us to Acts 7–9 to meet the young, zealous Pharisee who approved of Stephen’s stoning and “ravaged the church,” breathing threats and murder against the disciples.

We see Saul’s radical opposition to Christ, the brutal martyrdom of Stephen, and the great persecution that followed. Rather than defeat the church, this persecution scattered believers who “went everywhere preaching the word.” Steve draws powerful lessons on God’s ability to use evil for good, the importance of courageous witness in the face of opposition, and the sobering reality that sincere but erroneous zeal can lead to great harm.

A compelling start to a study on one of the most remarkable transformations in Scripture. Perfect for personal growth and group discussion.

1. **Introduction to the Series**
- Purpose: Study *lessons from the life* of Paul (not just his doctrine).
- Focus on his situations, obstacles, changes, relationships, and practical applications for today.
- Acknowledgment that the class will move at a natural pace rather than rigid “TV episode” segments.
- Emphasis on interactive engagement and learning together.

2. **Background and First Appearance of Saul (Acts 7)**
- Context of Stephen’s trial and speech before the Sanhedrin.
- Stephen’s powerful historical review and accusation against the leaders.
- The council’s rage: grinding teeth, stopping their ears, rushing upon Stephen.
- Stephen’s vision of Jesus and his Christ-like forgiveness as he is stoned.
- Saul (a young man) present, approving, and guarding the witnesses’ garments.

3. **Saul’s Persecution of the Church (Acts 8:1-3)**
- Saul “approved” (consented to) Stephen’s death and later cast votes for executions.
- Great persecution arises in Jerusalem; believers scatter throughout Judea and Samaria (except the apostles).
- Saul “ravaging” the church: entering houses, dragging off men and women to prison.
- Result: Scattered believers “preached the word” → the church grew (Acts 8:4).

4. **Saul’s Zeal Reaches Damascus (Acts 9:1-2)**
- Breathing threats and murder.
- Obtaining letters to arrest “any belonging to the Way.”

5. **Key Lessons Drawn**
- **God uses evil for good**: Saul’s persecution scattered Christians, which advanced the gospel.
- **Evil ultimately loses**: Even when it appears strong, righteousness triumphs.
- **The power and necessity of preaching**: Despite danger, believers continued speaking about Jesus.
- **Danger of sincere but wrong zeal**: Saul acted “in good conscience” according to his understanding of the Law (blasphemy = death penalty), yet was violently opposing God.
- **Application for today**: We must find ways to introduce Christ into conversations even when it’s uncomfortable or risky; silence is not an option if we want the church to grow.
- Encouragement to be bold witnesses like the scattered believers.

6. **Closing**
- Preview of next week: Continuation of Saul’s pre-conversion picture, his own later testimony about this period, and moving into his conversion.
- Prayer for wisdom and boldness in sharing the gospel.

This lesson effectively sets the stage for the dramatic “before and after” of Paul’s life while immediately pulling out timeless, applicable truths for modern Christians.