Walk It Out Wednesday: An Encounter With God - Pastoral Panel

Main message: A genuine encounter with Jesus — like Saul’s on the road to Damascus — radically transforms a life and redirects ministry; that encounter should lead every believer to testify, obey God promptly, and engage in bold evangelism rather than relying on mere religion or waiting for formal permission.

Key points:

• Saul (later Paul) zealously persecuted Christians until a blinding heavenly encounter (Acts 9) revealed Jesus, left him blind three days, and set him on a new mission.
• Encounters often begin privately and are confirmed publicly — God also spoke to Ananias (to restore Saul) and to Cornelius/Peter, showing how God prepares others so encounters can intersect and expand the church (Gentile mission).
• Relationship with God matters more than religion; revelation from an encounter produces authentic testimony and ministry.
• Every believer is called to share the gospel now — you don’t need to wait for ordination; plant, water, then let God give the increase; handle rejection by moving on (shake the dust off).
• Light and darkness can coexist in the world; believers are sent to bring God’s light into dark places through God’s word and witness.
• Mentoring and discipleship matter (Barnabas’ role with Saul); rejection can redirect you to the ministry God has for you.

Scriptures mentioned: Acts 6, Acts 7, Acts 8, Acts 9, Acts 10 (Cornelius/Peter), Acts 11, Acts 18, Acts 28, Psalm 30:5 (weeping may endure...), (principle referenced) Matthew 10:14 (shake the dust off your feet)