Acts - Until Everyone KnowsSample

Acts 9

Is there a greater transformation story in all of history? Saul, the relentless Christian-persecutor, encounters Jesus and becomes one of the most significant individuals to spread the Gospel. It is only in the previous chapter that we read how Saul fully agreed to the killing of Stephen. But on the road to Damascus, Saul is blinded by a bright light, and the audible Voice of Jesus causes this dramatic U-turn in his life.

Ironically, within a short space of time, Saul is now having his own death threats and faces doubts from other believers about his own conversion! However, compelled by meeting the Risen Jesus, Saul preaches with increasing Power and slowly gains the trust of a few through his actions.

Sometimes it is easy to make judgments on who is "more likely" to be saved. Take Ananias and the other Christians' response - they initially doubted that someone as evil as Saul could have changed. However, after hearing clearly from God, it was Ananias who took bold steps of obedience to visit Saul and pray for him, marking the start of Saul's powerful ministry.

When was the last time you prayed for someone who wronged you? Or shared your faith with the most irritating colleague, neighbor, student, or parent in the school? What would your reaction be if, out of the blue, you overheard them telling people about Jesus? Maybe you’d also be sceptical, but in this story, you see how immediate change can happen when God changes someone’s heart.

Thank You, Jesus, for your Life-Transforming Power that is available to all. Please, would you bring someone to mind whom I have put in the "too hard" box, and give me faith to pray for them to have a powerful encounter with You. Amen.

Dan Tram