Acts of the Holy Spirit: A Study in ActsSýnishorn

What does it say?

Paul told the crowd how he met Jesus and was sent to the Gentiles. When the Roman commander heard that Paul was a Roman citizen, they withdrew before flogging him.

What does it mean?

Paul looked at the angry mob shouting for his death and recognized the same attitude he once had toward Christians. The most zealous persecutor of the church was now the persecuted. Paul saw an opportunity to tell how Jesus had changed his life, giving him a new purpose. He seized the moment because he had determined before the suffering began to follow God’s will regardless of the personal cost. Paul was on the path to testifying of Christ in Rome itself. God had every detail in place – even Paul’s Roman citizenship, which kept him from being severely flogged.

How should I respond?

What were you like before deciding to follow Jesus? Even if you were saved at a very young age, you exhibited signs of a sinful nature. How do you respond when God brings you face-to-face with someone who is exactly like you were before Christ? Is your first reaction compassion or self-righteous judgment? God responded graciously when you repented of your sin (1 Cor. 6:9-11), giving you new life and purpose. Hearing your story may prompt someone else to follow Christ. Will you seize the opportunity when it comes? Determine now to tell them how Jesus changed your life.