I'd have to say Saul of Tarsus is the premier example of discipline in the New Testament. He was always a sincere man, always seeking the God of Israel. He thought he served El Shaddai by murdering people who followed the Way of Jesus. But Jesus came to Saul when he was on the road to Damascus. Jesus talked too him, told him he was making a mistake. Saul became blinded for 3 days and nights. It's almost as if he died and was born again as the Apostle Paul. Jesus said: .. he is a chosen instrument of Mine, to bear My name before the Gentiles and kings and the sons of Israel; I will show him how much he must suffer for My name's sake." (Acts 9:15b,16)
The great Apostle to us Gentiles was disciplined for the rest of his life. He endured many hardships, beatings, stonings, imprisonments, etc. He was in constant pain by a messenger (angel) of Satan buffeting him. Paul said; For I am the least of the apostles, and not fit to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. But by the grace of God I am what I am,.. (1 Cor. 15:9,10a)
Jesus discipline was only for Pauls good, to keep him from being lifted up in pride, to keep him humble and on the path the Lord had laid out for him. Paul wrote these eternal words: And we know that all things work together for the good for those who love the Lord and are the called according to His purposes. (Romans)
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