S – They only were hearing it said, “He who used to persecute us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy.” ²⁴ And they glorified God because of me. 

Galatians 1:23–24 ESV

O – Commentary:

The churches in Judea by this time had almost forgotten Paul. The only report they had recently heard was that this one who had once persecuted the church was now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy. This would of course include the doctrine of justification by faith apart from circumcision or works. And in the face of this report the Judean believers praised God because of Paul. This was a telling blow to the false teachers. The Jewish Christians in Judea rejoiced in the same gospel the Judaizers sought to undermine

 Donald K. Campbell, “Galatians,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 2 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 592.

A – There is something special that happens when one accepts Christ.  Those who knew them before get to see the transformation of God’s love impacting the “old person” and transforming them into a new creation.  Paul went from a persecutor to a preacher.  He does the same thing in us.  Even if your job isn’t a pastor, you are now a minister sharing the good news with others.  Your message is to the people you come in contact with each day.  They will see the difference and it makes an impact on those around you.

R – Heavenly Father, you are our Savior and salvation.  Thank you for allowing us to know and be in relationship with you.  Continue to transform us into the person that will bring you honor and glory in every aspect of our lives.