Paul, Fearless Lion of God
Synopsis
Few men have impacted the world like the apostle Paul. His remarkable background provided a platform from which he was able to literally challenge and change his world—and that legacy continues even today. He was known by friend and foe alike as “Paul, the zealot.” He was a pharisee, a rabbi, Greek philosopher, Hebrew, AND a Roman citizen. But, in spite of his talent, heritage, and education, Paul ultimately declared that the relationship he had with Jesus Christ was his ultimate triumph. Paul’s titles, birthrights, and associations opened doors afforded to few other men of his day.
The musical opens with the chilling stoning and martyrdom of Stephen which was personally overseen by Saul (Paul’s given name at birth). Saul argues publicly with Stephen and insights a riot which leads to the dramatic, eerie, and disquieting “slow motion” stoning. As a final and arrogant act after Stephen’s death, Saul takes center stage and declares, “One less heretic!” The lights go black.
In many ways Saul serves as both antagonist and protagonist in the story. Torn between family and tradition, Saul was an extremist whose love for “religion” blurred the reality of God’s very nature. Paul’s sister (spoken of in scripture in Acts 23:16 and named Daphne in our musical) is a central figure and by definition also an antagonist in the story. The anger and distress caused by Saul’s conversion is a constant frustration to her. Daphne’s conversion to Christianity late in the story is an astonishing testimony to God’s faithfulness.
When Saul meets with the high priest in Jerusalem he receives a letter granting permission to “stop the blasphemers” (followers of Christ) and drag them back to Jerusalem to be imprisoned. On the journey to Damascus Saul has an extraordinary encounter with Jesus. He is blinded by a bright light and soon led to the home of Ananias. While alone, waiting for Ananias and pondering his life, Saul sings the poignant and heartrending song, “Blind to God’s Truth” revealing his new heart to the audience as he sings, “I’m ashamed of all the harm that I’ve done, for now, I know You are God’s Son.”
Skeptical because of Saul’s reputation, Ananias, a firm believer in Christ, provides a comical moment in the show by “testing” Saul’s blindness. Finally, when convinced Saul is genuinely remorseful, Ananias prays that Saul’s heart and eyes will be opened. They sing, “Holy Spirit, come to me and open wide these eyes, let them see. Only Jesus can set the captive free.” At that moment the scales fall from Saul’s eyes and he is gloriously set free.
Once Saul begins going by the Roman version of his name, Paul, he seems to take on new strength and zeal. At last, able to hear God’s voice, he finds his life redirected as he travels with Barnabus, John Mark, and eventually, Silas, Luke, and others to spread the message of Jesus Christ. His relationship with the various colorful characters in the story are all lessons in life itself. Even the great apostle Paul didn’t get along with everyone!
Paul, Fearless Lion of God takes the audience on an unforgettable journey. They experience a personal side of Paul that has perhaps been forgotten. He was a man of passion and conviction and his life has been an example for men and women throughout the ages.
In the final scenes Paul’s relationships with Barnabus and his sister are restored. Even Daphne finds a place for Jesus in her heart as she quotes Paul’s words and says, “Whatsoever you do in word or deed, do ALL in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, giving thanks to God the Father.”
In prison, Paul leads his guard to Christ, and later sings, “But my pride causes me to sin; I push aside the Holy Spirit within. Help me be strong; don’t let my human nature win, though the road be long. There is victory in the end.”