1 And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest, 2 and desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem. (Acts 9:1-2)
Saul was an evil and ruthless man before he was converted to Christ. He hated Christianity and persecuted anyone who professed to believe in Christ. Yes, he had good morals and kept the Law of Moses. But he was a persecutor of Christians and a blasphemer. Yet, he did all this believing he was serving God.
He was the central character in the first wave of persecution that scattered the early church. He used threats to crush the spirits of believers and to make them deny their faith. In the event that approach wasn’t effective, Saul killed them. Thus, the above scripture says, “Then Saul, still breathing out threats and murder.”
The cruelty of his mission was so intense that even women were not spared. They were to be treated the same as men; bound like criminals and forcefully brought to Jerusalem
3 As he journeyed he came near Damascus, and suddenly a light shone around him from heaven. 4 Then he fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?” (Acts 9:3-4)
Note that God shows His great mercy and power by sometimes transforming sinners when they are at their worst. Observe the time and place of his conversion. He was not in the synagogue, temple or a Christian meeting. This incident shows that the transformation of a sinner is not restricted to the church premise. It can happen anywhere that God wills to make Himself known to a sinner. Also, consider that he had almost arrived at Damascus when he met Christ.
Saul’s encounter was not for his benefit alone. He was a real threat to the disciples at Damascus. So Christ’s intervention shows His kindness and faithfulness to the church, who probably knew that Saul was coming to persecute them. Also, it was a mercy to Saul because if he had carried out his plan, he would have incurred the wrath of God on himself. Christ’s words to him, “Saul, why are you persecuting me?” shows that Heaven saw Saul’s action as a great sin.
Now, consider that this light which shone was supernatural. It was visible enough to be seen during the day when the sun was out. The light did not just shine on Saul’s face alone but all around him, signifying that his understanding was being enlightened.
Also, notice the scripture says he fell to the ground. Saul could not have been approaching Damascus on foot because of the urgency of his mission, the long journey and the lofty commission he had secured. So he was on his horse when the light from heaven startled the beast, and Saul was thrown off. This experience humbled Saul and is symbolic to every Christian. Christ’s appearances are humbling, making us reflect on our low estate and unworthiness, leading to submission and surrender.
Christ was going to exalt Saul to the status of Apostle, so he had to be brought low first. Everyone who Christ must exalt must first be brought low to realize their weaknesses and unworthiness.
It’s interesting to note that he bore the same name as King Saul, who persecuted David. And now, the persecutor of the Son of David bore the same name. Also, the mention of his name made it crystal clear who Jesus was referring to and brought an intense conviction on his conscience. Whenever God speaks, and we apply His words to ourselves, it has a more positive effect and produces transformation.
Saul was persecuting the people and yet Christ said, “Why are you persecuting me?” This shows the deep bonding of Christ with His people. Whatever you do towards His people; good or bad, you do it towards the Lord also.
And he said, “Who are You, Lord?” Then the Lord said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for you to kick against the goads.” (Acts 9:5)
Notice in this verse that Saul did not reply to Christ’s question, having been convicted in his heart of his trespass. Conviction of sin often has the power to silence the offender and render them inexcusable.
However, the persecutor sought to know the identity of his judge. But he adds a title of reverence, discerning that the person he conversed with had great authority. Saul asked Christ who He was, showing that they had not met. Yet, it shows his willingness to make Christ’s acquaintance.
Mercifully, Christ replies to his question. For indeed, He is willing to answer those who desire to know him with all their hearts. Yes, Saul knew the name but did not know it belonged to the son of God in heaven. Here, sin was revealed as a direct offence against God and should be a true believer’s mindset towards all transgression, not just persecution.
Christ also adds a message of warning to His introduction (it is hard to kick against the goads), orienting Saul of the danger and self-sabotage that awaited him if he continued as a persecutor of the church.
Why did Christ use the illustration of kicking against goads? A goad is a spiked stick used in herding cattle. So it is an absurd picture for someone to see such a dangerous object and expose their flesh to the spikes. Likewise, those who rebel against God’s word and persecute His ministers and His people are only hurting themselves.
“So he, trembling and astonished, said, ‘Lord, what do You want me to do?’ Then the Lord said to him, ‘Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.” (Acts 9:6)
Saul had been granted access into a new reality he had vehemently opposed. He was so full of wonder that he was compelled to ask, “Lord, what do you want me to do?” Saul accepted that he had been in error and desired to know the right way to go. Thus, he had a great desire to be instructed by his new Lord. When a soul has this desire for guidance in the paths of righteousness, it is evidence of the work of salvation.
This is one of the reasons why we must spend quality time with the Lord on a regular basis and allow Him to speak directly to us. Most of the time, our hearts will tell us one thing, but the Lord will convict our hearts to follow Him on His way of righteousness.
Saul’s words showed his submission to Christ’s will and authority and marked the beginning of his sojourn into spiritual life. He no longer cared about what the high priest or Jewish elders wanted, but his priority was God’s will. This shows the transforming work of conversion on the will of a sinner.
God’s plan has two very important characteristics
1.It is a personal plan
Notice the personal pronouns in Acts 9:6. “What do you want me to do?”
There is no one else in the world like you – God’s plan for you is unique. He has a purpose to fulfil in and with your life that cannot be fulfilled in the life of any other person.
2. It is a perfect plan
“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” (Romans 12:2)
We are told that the will of God, or God’s plan and purpose in the lives of His children, is good and acceptable and perfect. Think about these three words because they are full of significance.
Observe that Saul was not given the instructions he sought. Yet. He was given a promise of further instructions. Christ wanted Saul to have enough time to meditate on what had happened to him. Perhaps another reason Saul did not receive the instructions he desired immediately was because of his present state of mind. He was already confounded by the encounter, and Christ wanted him to receive those instructions in a way he could reveal them; through a man.
You may be one of those who have never truly asked the question, “Lord, what do You want me to do?” for your own life. Perhaps you might set aside some time to seek Him face to face. Ask Him this question, and then wait for Him to respond with whatever He is saying to you, whether it is for now or for the future.
God reveals His plan to us step by step. Scripture says, “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He delights in his way.” (Psalm 37:23).
Then the Lord said to him, “Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”
Why was Saul not told what to do there itself?
There is a principle here. It is only when we obey the now voice of God, we will receive further instructions. What if Paul did not go into the city? He would have missed out on further instructions from the Lord. He could have gone to town telling everyone that he had heard the voice of God, and that’s it. He would not have heard more from God.
“And the men who journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice but seeing no one.” (Acts 9:7)
Now, although Saul had been greatly affected by the encounter, the men with him were left in the dark. Yes, they had also probably fallen from their horses but got back to their feet. They only stood about speechless and in confusion, but there was no change in them.
Although they had seen the light and had been struck down just as Saul, they were not converted. This shows that without the Spirit of God and the revelation of God’s grace, external manifestations cannot produce the fruits of salvation. These men heard a voice talking to Saul but could not make out what was said. They were just witnesses of the outbreak of God’s power upon the great persecutor of the church.
"Then Saul arose from the ground, and when his eyes were opened he saw no one. But they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. And he was three days without sight and neither ate nor drank." (Acts 9:8-9)
These verses show Saul's condition after his encounter with Christ. Unlike his colleagues, he arose as commanded by Christ. But it's possible he was helped to his feet because the encounter had terrified and drained him. When he opened his eyes, he discovered that he was blind. However, it's not the brilliant light that caused this blindness because his men had seen the same light but still had their sight. Instead, it was because his eyes had beheld Christ.
What is the significance of Saul being blinded?
Christ took Saul's eyes off other things so that he could look to him. In the same way, when God reveals himself to us, the encounter takes our focus off the things of this world to behold and focus on the things above.
Further, consider how Saul was taken into Damascus. He who had previously breathed threatening and persecution against the church became weak helpless. He who had desired to lead others bound into Jerusalem was now led bound as a prisoner of Christ, into Damascus.
Saul was blind for three days and ate nothing. Possibly, he was in a state of conviction and terror because of his grievous sins, and as a result, he had no appetite.
Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias; and to him the Lord said in a vision, "Ananias." And he said, "Here I am, Lord." (Acts 9:10)
"Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias; and to him the Lord said in a vision, 'Ananias.' And he said, 'Here I am, Lord.'"
Here, we see that Christ commands Ananias, a citizen of Damascus to extend His hand of comfort to Saul and give him the promised instructions. Ananias, is introduced here as a disciple, so he occupied none of the fivefold ministry offices.
Observe that Christ called Ananias by name and that he responded with certainty. Thus, it's accurate to say that this was not the first time Christ was speaking to Ananias in this manner.
Are you reminded of Isaiah 6:1-8? Prophet Isaiah went to the temple to worship. While in the presence of God, the seraphim came down with the coals of fire and touched Isaiah's lips. Isaiah felt the purification of the Lord. The Lord then asked the question, "Who shall I send?" And Isaiah responded, "Lord, here am I. Send me."
Once we come to a full appreciation of what God has done for us, surely we will be like Ananias and anxiously say, "Lord, here am I. Use me."
Not everyone can be Paul, but all of us can be Ananias.
11 So the Lord said to him, "Arise and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for one called Saul of Tarsus, for behold, he is praying. 12 And in a vision, he has seen a man named Ananias coming in and putting his hand on him so that he might receive his sight." (Acts 9:11-12)
"So the Lord said to him, 'Arise and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for one called Saul of Tarsus, for behold, he is praying. And in a vision, he has seen a man named Ananias coming in and putting his hand on him, so that he might receive his sight.'"
In these verses, Christ directs Ananias to the particular house and street where Saul lodged. From this, we learn that Christ knows where to find and comfort his people no matter what they are experiencing. They might feel like their world has turned upside down and no one cares about them, but Christ does and will send them help.
Christ reveals that Saul is praying, probably in anguish because of the fresh discovery of his great sin against the Son of God. And we also see that Christ had given Saul some comfort in his distress by assuring him in a vision that someone was coming to instruct him and restore his sight. Often times, Christ shows us things about the future to comfort and encourage us through a vision or dream.
Ananias' attention was first drawn to Saul's new condition of conversion by what Christ described him doing. A former persecutor of the church who breathed out threatenings and murder now breathed prayer.
"Then Ananias answered, 'Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much harm he has done to Your saints in Jerusalem. And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on Your name.'" (Acts 9:13-14)
In these verses, we see Ananias' reluctance to go to Saul. He was not disobedient, only reluctant because he was afraid of Saul having been privy to his reputation and mission to arrest the disciples of Christ. However, he should not have been afraid, knowing who sent him on this errand.
But the Lord said to him, "Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name's sake." (Acts 9:15-16)
"But the Lord said to him, 'Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name's sake.'
In these verses, we shall consider the manner and content of Christ's response to Ananias' objection. It's worthy of note that Christ did not rebuke His servant for his difference in opinion. Rather, His reply shows a willingness to condescend and explain the reasons behind His command. How wonderful it is to know that the God whose ways and thoughts are higher than ours, loves to reason with us.
Christ also chose not to dwell on Saul's past as Ananias. Instead, He revealed to Ananias that Saul's future would be glorious because he was a chosen vessel for the gospel's sake. Yes, the unworthy vessel, has become a chosen vessel that could not be discarded but filled with heavenly treasure and entrusted with great purpose. Christ revealed that Saul was fashioned for sacred service and great suffering. He who had been a persecutor would himself be persecuted for the sake of the gospel.
Those who are called to preach Christ must also be willing to carry their cross and take part in His sufferings. Surely, such tidings of peril are quite hard on the ears of a new believer but necessary for the emboldening of a soldier's heart for battle, for we are indeed soldiers of Christ.
Saul was an evil and ruthless man before he was converted to Christ. He hated Christianity and persecuted anyone who professed to believe in Christ. Yes, he had good morals and kept the Law of Moses. But he was a persecutor of Christians and a blasphemer. Yet, he did all this believing he was serving God.
He was the central character in the first wave of persecution that scattered the early church. He used threats to crush the spirits of believers and to make them deny their faith. In the event that approach wasn’t effective, Saul killed them. Thus, the above scripture says, “Then Saul, still breathing out threats and murder.”
The cruelty of his mission was so intense that even women were not spared. They were to be treated the same as men; bound like criminals and forcefully brought to Jerusalem
3 As he journeyed he came near Damascus, and suddenly a light shone around him from heaven. 4 Then he fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?” (Acts 9:3-4)
Note that God shows His great mercy and power by sometimes transforming sinners when they are at their worst. Observe the time and place of his conversion. He was not in the synagogue, temple or a Christian meeting. This incident shows that the transformation of a sinner is not restricted to the church premise. It can happen anywhere that God wills to make Himself known to a sinner. Also, consider that he had almost arrived at Damascus when he met Christ.
Saul’s encounter was not for his benefit alone. He was a real threat to the disciples at Damascus. So Christ’s intervention shows His kindness and faithfulness to the church, who probably knew that Saul was coming to persecute them. Also, it was a mercy to Saul because if he had carried out his plan, he would have incurred the wrath of God on himself. Christ’s words to him, “Saul, why are you persecuting me?” shows that Heaven saw Saul’s action as a great sin.
Now, consider that this light which shone was supernatural. It was visible enough to be seen during the day when the sun was out. The light did not just shine on Saul’s face alone but all around him, signifying that his understanding was being enlightened.
Also, notice the scripture says he fell to the ground. Saul could not have been approaching Damascus on foot because of the urgency of his mission, the long journey and the lofty commission he had secured. So he was on his horse when the light from heaven startled the beast, and Saul was thrown off. This experience humbled Saul and is symbolic to every Christian. Christ’s appearances are humbling, making us reflect on our low estate and unworthiness, leading to submission and surrender.
Christ was going to exalt Saul to the status of Apostle, so he had to be brought low first. Everyone who Christ must exalt must first be brought low to realize their weaknesses and unworthiness.
It’s interesting to note that he bore the same name as King Saul, who persecuted David. And now, the persecutor of the Son of David bore the same name. Also, the mention of his name made it crystal clear who Jesus was referring to and brought an intense conviction on his conscience. Whenever God speaks, and we apply His words to ourselves, it has a more positive effect and produces transformation.
Saul was persecuting the people and yet Christ said, “Why are you persecuting me?” This shows the deep bonding of Christ with His people. Whatever you do towards His people; good or bad, you do it towards the Lord also.
And he said, “Who are You, Lord?” Then the Lord said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for you to kick against the goads.” (Acts 9:5)
Notice in this verse that Saul did not reply to Christ’s question, having been convicted in his heart of his trespass. Conviction of sin often has the power to silence the offender and render them inexcusable.
However, the persecutor sought to know the identity of his judge. But he adds a title of reverence, discerning that the person he conversed with had great authority. Saul asked Christ who He was, showing that they had not met. Yet, it shows his willingness to make Christ’s acquaintance.
Mercifully, Christ replies to his question. For indeed, He is willing to answer those who desire to know him with all their hearts. Yes, Saul knew the name but did not know it belonged to the son of God in heaven. Here, sin was revealed as a direct offence against God and should be a true believer’s mindset towards all transgression, not just persecution.
Christ also adds a message of warning to His introduction (it is hard to kick against the goads), orienting Saul of the danger and self-sabotage that awaited him if he continued as a persecutor of the church.
Why did Christ use the illustration of kicking against goads? A goad is a spiked stick used in herding cattle. So it is an absurd picture for someone to see such a dangerous object and expose their flesh to the spikes. Likewise, those who rebel against God’s word and persecute His ministers and His people are only hurting themselves.
“So he, trembling and astonished, said, ‘Lord, what do You want me to do?’ Then the Lord said to him, ‘Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.” (Acts 9:6)
Saul had been granted access into a new reality he had vehemently opposed. He was so full of wonder that he was compelled to ask, “Lord, what do you want me to do?” Saul accepted that he had been in error and desired to know the right way to go. Thus, he had a great desire to be instructed by his new Lord. When a soul has this desire for guidance in the paths of righteousness, it is evidence of the work of salvation.
This is one of the reasons why we must spend quality time with the Lord on a regular basis and allow Him to speak directly to us. Most of the time, our hearts will tell us one thing, but the Lord will convict our hearts to follow Him on His way of righteousness.
Saul’s words showed his submission to Christ’s will and authority and marked the beginning of his sojourn into spiritual life. He no longer cared about what the high priest or Jewish elders wanted, but his priority was God’s will. This shows the transforming work of conversion on the will of a sinner.
God’s plan has two very important characteristics
1.It is a personal plan
Notice the personal pronouns in Acts 9:6. “What do you want me to do?”
There is no one else in the world like you – God’s plan for you is unique. He has a purpose to fulfil in and with your life that cannot be fulfilled in the life of any other person.
2. It is a perfect plan
“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” (Romans 12:2)
We are told that the will of God, or God’s plan and purpose in the lives of His children, is good and acceptable and perfect. Think about these three words because they are full of significance.
Observe that Saul was not given the instructions he sought. Yet. He was given a promise of further instructions. Christ wanted Saul to have enough time to meditate on what had happened to him. Perhaps another reason Saul did not receive the instructions he desired immediately was because of his present state of mind. He was already confounded by the encounter, and Christ wanted him to receive those instructions in a way he could reveal them; through a man.
You may be one of those who have never truly asked the question, “Lord, what do You want me to do?” for your own life. Perhaps you might set aside some time to seek Him face to face. Ask Him this question, and then wait for Him to respond with whatever He is saying to you, whether it is for now or for the future.
God reveals His plan to us step by step. Scripture says, “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He delights in his way.” (Psalm 37:23).
Then the Lord said to him, “Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”
Why was Saul not told what to do there itself?
There is a principle here. It is only when we obey the now voice of God, we will receive further instructions. What if Paul did not go into the city? He would have missed out on further instructions from the Lord. He could have gone to town telling everyone that he had heard the voice of God, and that’s it. He would not have heard more from God.
“And the men who journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice but seeing no one.” (Acts 9:7)
Now, although Saul had been greatly affected by the encounter, the men with him were left in the dark. Yes, they had also probably fallen from their horses but got back to their feet. They only stood about speechless and in confusion, but there was no change in them.
Although they had seen the light and had been struck down just as Saul, they were not converted. This shows that without the Spirit of God and the revelation of God’s grace, external manifestations cannot produce the fruits of salvation. These men heard a voice talking to Saul but could not make out what was said. They were just witnesses of the outbreak of God’s power upon the great persecutor of the church.
"Then Saul arose from the ground, and when his eyes were opened he saw no one. But they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. And he was three days without sight and neither ate nor drank." (Acts 9:8-9)
These verses show Saul's condition after his encounter with Christ. Unlike his colleagues, he arose as commanded by Christ. But it's possible he was helped to his feet because the encounter had terrified and drained him. When he opened his eyes, he discovered that he was blind. However, it's not the brilliant light that caused this blindness because his men had seen the same light but still had their sight. Instead, it was because his eyes had beheld Christ.
What is the significance of Saul being blinded?
Christ took Saul's eyes off other things so that he could look to him. In the same way, when God reveals himself to us, the encounter takes our focus off the things of this world to behold and focus on the things above.
Further, consider how Saul was taken into Damascus. He who had previously breathed threatening and persecution against the church became weak helpless. He who had desired to lead others bound into Jerusalem was now led bound as a prisoner of Christ, into Damascus.
Saul was blind for three days and ate nothing. Possibly, he was in a state of conviction and terror because of his grievous sins, and as a result, he had no appetite.
Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias; and to him the Lord said in a vision, "Ananias." And he said, "Here I am, Lord." (Acts 9:10)
"Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias; and to him the Lord said in a vision, 'Ananias.' And he said, 'Here I am, Lord.'"
Here, we see that Christ commands Ananias, a citizen of Damascus to extend His hand of comfort to Saul and give him the promised instructions. Ananias, is introduced here as a disciple, so he occupied none of the fivefold ministry offices.
Observe that Christ called Ananias by name and that he responded with certainty. Thus, it's accurate to say that this was not the first time Christ was speaking to Ananias in this manner.
Are you reminded of Isaiah 6:1-8? Prophet Isaiah went to the temple to worship. While in the presence of God, the seraphim came down with the coals of fire and touched Isaiah's lips. Isaiah felt the purification of the Lord. The Lord then asked the question, "Who shall I send?" And Isaiah responded, "Lord, here am I. Send me."
Once we come to a full appreciation of what God has done for us, surely we will be like Ananias and anxiously say, "Lord, here am I. Use me."
Not everyone can be Paul, but all of us can be Ananias.
11 So the Lord said to him, "Arise and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for one called Saul of Tarsus, for behold, he is praying. 12 And in a vision, he has seen a man named Ananias coming in and putting his hand on him so that he might receive his sight." (Acts 9:11-12)
"So the Lord said to him, 'Arise and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for one called Saul of Tarsus, for behold, he is praying. And in a vision, he has seen a man named Ananias coming in and putting his hand on him, so that he might receive his sight.'"
In these verses, Christ directs Ananias to the particular house and street where Saul lodged. From this, we learn that Christ knows where to find and comfort his people no matter what they are experiencing. They might feel like their world has turned upside down and no one cares about them, but Christ does and will send them help.
Christ reveals that Saul is praying, probably in anguish because of the fresh discovery of his great sin against the Son of God. And we also see that Christ had given Saul some comfort in his distress by assuring him in a vision that someone was coming to instruct him and restore his sight. Often times, Christ shows us things about the future to comfort and encourage us through a vision or dream.
Ananias' attention was first drawn to Saul's new condition of conversion by what Christ described him doing. A former persecutor of the church who breathed out threatenings and murder now breathed prayer.
"Then Ananias answered, 'Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much harm he has done to Your saints in Jerusalem. And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on Your name.'" (Acts 9:13-14)
In these verses, we see Ananias' reluctance to go to Saul. He was not disobedient, only reluctant because he was afraid of Saul having been privy to his reputation and mission to arrest the disciples of Christ. However, he should not have been afraid, knowing who sent him on this errand.
But the Lord said to him, "Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name's sake." (Acts 9:15-16)
"But the Lord said to him, 'Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name's sake.'
In these verses, we shall consider the manner and content of Christ's response to Ananias' objection. It's worthy of note that Christ did not rebuke His servant for his difference in opinion. Rather, His reply shows a willingness to condescend and explain the reasons behind His command. How wonderful it is to know that the God whose ways and thoughts are higher than ours, loves to reason with us.
Christ also chose not to dwell on Saul's past as Ananias. Instead, He revealed to Ananias that Saul's future would be glorious because he was a chosen vessel for the gospel's sake. Yes, the unworthy vessel, has become a chosen vessel that could not be discarded but filled with heavenly treasure and entrusted with great purpose. Christ revealed that Saul was fashioned for sacred service and great suffering. He who had been a persecutor would himself be persecuted for the sake of the gospel.
Those who are called to preach Christ must also be willing to carry their cross and take part in His sufferings. Surely, such tidings of peril are quite hard on the ears of a new believer but necessary for the emboldening of a soldier's heart for battle, for we are indeed soldiers of Christ.
And Ananias went his way and entered the house; and laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you came, has sent me that you may receive your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” (Acts 9:17)
Here, we see that after Christ had answered his argument, Ananias went on his assignment. His laying of hands is quite symbolic in two ways. First, it shows the fulfilment of Christ’s promise that believers shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. Second, it also shows that in God’s kingdom, evil is not repaid with evil but good. Saul, who had come to lay hands of bondage and death on believers, was touched with hands of liberty and healing.
Notice Ananias’ address to Saul. He called him “brother,’ acknowledging that Saul had become a child of God and a partaker of God’s lavish grace. He tells him that the same Jesus who had wounded him had come to heal him. He who had chastised provided comfort. But Saul was to receive more than his sight. He was to be commissioned as an apostle immediately by the empowerment of the Holy Ghost.
“Immediately, there fell from his eyes something like scales, and he received his sight at once; and he arose and was baptized. So when he had received food, he was strengthened. Then Saul spent some days with the disciples at Damascus.” (Acts 9:18-19)
Here, we see the restoration of Saul’s sight, its significance and its effect. When Ananias gave the word, Scales fell from his eyes, showing that the power of darkness which prevented him from receiving the gospel had been broken. Saul’s eyes were miraculously opened, symbolizing his redemption for darkness and his commission to give sight to the blind and open the prison doors to them that are bound.
To show his subjection to Christ as Lord, Saul was baptized, throwing himself on the grace of Christ and joining himself to Him.
What was the effect of these things?
1.Saul was delivered from his state of confusion and terror, which had robbed him of his appetite. Therefore, his appetite returned, and so did his strength.
2.Having been accepted into Christ’s family, he began to interact with the disciples in Damascus. His threatenings and murder had become brotherly love and affection.
Chapters