Saul Earns Credibility
Lesson Text: Acts 9:19b-31
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Thought to Remember: Believers impact the lives of others
Lessons learned:
Saul’s conversion begins with his departure from Jerusalem, where he sought to persecute the followers of Jesus. His storyline culminates in a significant transformation, as Saul ultimately leaves Jerusalem not as a persecutor but as a follower of Jesus who faces persecution himself. Initially known for his role as a persecutor, Saul's journey reflects a dramatic shift, leading him to receive persecution for his newfound faith.
As we take inventory of our lives, can we identify a transformation similar to Saul, whose name was later changed to Paul? Before Saul’s transformation, he impacted the lives of others by punishing them if they failed to believe what he thought. Yet, his transformation was so significant that he was willing to die for his newfound faith. Saul impacted the lives of others with this gospel, which made him a threat to the same institution that trained him.
Today, I ponder these questions after reflecting on Saul’s conversion. Are believers having the same impact on the worldly establishment that opposes the gospel, or do we find ourselves assimilating into their belief system? Are we standing up for the vulnerable and helpless in our society? Are we sharing the gospel when individuals seem hopeless?
When Paul became the target of prosecution, the church expanded and transformed more individuals as it fulfilled the Great Commission. Let us continue to examine ourselves so that we can have the same impact on the world around us as Saul did. Remember, Psalms 90:17 (NIV):
May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us— yes, establish the work of our hands.
The Lord gives us plenty of work to carry out during our earthly lives. Yet, our effort amounts to nothing if it does not align with His will. As we seek new opportunities to share the gospel, we must call upon the Holy Spirit for guidance and wisdom. We must ask for His blessing and inspiration as we complete tasks that God lays before us.