Learning from Paul’s Example in Doctrine and Conduct

Learning from Paul’s Example in Doctrine and Conduct

Our emotions are powerful. They can surge within us, demanding action—whether through frustration, impatience, or even resentment. Yet, as believers, we are called to submit to something far greater than our fleeting feelings: the Word of God. The apostle Paul provides us with a striking example of this very principle when, after being unjustly struck in the face before the Jewish council, he humbled himself to the authority of the high priest, prioritizing God’s Word over his emotions.

Paul’s Trial Before the Jewish Leaders

In Acts 23, Paul stood before the Jewish leaders after being seized and falsely accused. As he began to speak, Ananias, the high priest, commanded that Paul be struck. Imagine the moment—a fervent servant of God, unjustly slapped across the face in a setting meant for justice. What was Paul’s initial reaction? His emotions surged, and he immediately rebuked Ananias, saying, “God shall smite thee, thou whited wall” (Acts 23:3, KJV).

Yet, in that very moment, someone informed Paul that he had spoken against the high priest. Paul, being deeply committed to God’s truth, instantly corrected himself:

"I wist not, brethren, that he was the high priest: for it is written, Thou shalt not speak evil of the ruler of thy people" (Acts 23:5, KJV).

Here lies an incredible lesson. Though Paul had a justifiable emotional reaction, he chose to submit to God’s Word. He immediately acknowledged his misstep and brought himself into alignment with scripture.

The Call to Elevate God’s Word Above Our Emotions

While we may never face a scenario exactly like Paul’s, we all encounter moments when emotions threaten to override our obedience to God’s Word. How often are we tempted to let impatience, frustration, or unforgiveness dictate our actions?

Paul’s example teaches us that our doctrine must govern our responses, not our emotions. This principle is the key to spiritual maturity and carries conditional blessings for those who walk in faithful obedience.

1. Choosing Patience Over Frustration

Our doctrine instructs us to be “patient in tribulation” (Romans 12:12, KJV), yet impatience is one of the strongest emotional impulses we battle. Are we allowing irritations—whether in relationships, workplaces, or daily inconveniences—to dictate our behavior? Or do we step back and allow God’s Word to transform us into vessels of patience?

2. Honoring Authorities Despite Personal Opinions

Paul submitted to the authority of the high priest even when it was uncomfortable. Likewise, scripture commands us to “obey magistrates” and “submit to rulers” (Titus 3:1, KJV). Do we speak ill of leaders, whether political or spiritual, letting emotions cloud our reverence for God’s command? If Paul, in the face of injustice, humbled himself under authority, surely we can demonstrate the same respect in our day.

3. Forgiveness Over Bitterness

Few emotions grip the heart like unforgiveness. Yet, scripture is clear: “Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye” (Colossians 3:13, KJV). Holding on to resentment is placing emotions above the Word, whereas releasing forgiveness allows us to walk in peace.

Conditional Blessings of Submission

Paul teaches that following his example yields spiritual blessings:

• Peace: “The God of peace shall be with you” (Philippians 4:9, KJV).
• Understanding: “Consider what I say; and the Lord give thee understanding in all things” (2 Timothy 2:7, KJV).
• Eternal Reward: “Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness” (2 Timothy 4:8, KJV).

When we elevate the Word above emotions—whether in patience, respect for authority, or forgiveness—we step into these conditional blessings, not because we aspire to copy Paul, but because we aspire to know and honour the Word of God, and in doing so, we grow in understanding, and peace and hope fill our minds.

A Call to Live by Doctrine

Paul’s response before the Jewish leaders was a moment of submission to God’s Word, despite personal injustice. In our day, the same principle applies:

• Let patience overrule irritability.
• Honor authorities in obedience to scripture.
• Forgive, even when emotions demand otherwise.
• Choose humility in times of tribulation.

Are you walking in faithful obedience as Paul did? Have you measured yourself against his example? If we desire spiritual growth, peace, and deeper understanding, let us elevate God’s Word above our emotions, no matter the cost.

To see the full video lesson of this post, go YouTube here.