Acts of the Holy Spirit: A Study in ActsSample

What does it say?

A heavenly light blinded Saul when Jesus spoke to him. After Saul was filled with the Holy Spirit, some conspired to kill him because he preached Jesus as the Christ.

What does it mean?

Saul’s salvation experience changed him from a hate-filled Pharisee to a Spirit-filled follower of Christ. Meeting Jesus completely reversed his life’s purpose. Some believers were too fearful of accepting that such a drastic change could take place. Still, Ananias and Barnabas boldly mentored Saul in the days immediately following his conversion, helping to shape the greatest missionary the world has ever known. Perhaps both men related to Saul’s change of heart and mind from their experiences. Saul later described the transformation as “a new creation in Christ” (2 Cor. 5:17).

How should I respond?

No one is beyond God’s transforming power, so why do we often fail to share our faith with people who are hostile to Christ? Bold faith starts with a personal knowledge of God’s ability to change your heart, mind, and purpose. While the initial work of salvation creates immediate transformation, change should continue daily as you respond to the Holy Spirit’s leading, first and foremost, through Scripture. About whom have you thought, “It would take a miracle for that person to change!”? Start praying; then boldly share how Jesus has changed your life! You weren’t beyond God’s reach, and neither is anyone else.