Saul’s Divine Intervention

Acts 9:3-6 (NIV): “3 As he [Saul] neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. 4 He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” 5 “Who are you, Lord?” Saul asked. “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,” he replied. 6 “Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”

How Does Jesus Identify With His Followers?

To provide context, Saul was on his way to Damascus to hunt down Christians. Scripture says he “was still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord’s disciples” (Acts 9:1).

In an instant, through one encounter with the Lord, Saul’s entire purpose, journey, and mission are radically changed. Saul is literally stopped in his tracks, and is confronted by Jesus about his persecution of Christians - Christ identifies so closely with His followers that He compares Saul’s persecution of Christians as a direct persecution of Himself.

Jesus commands Saul to “get up and go into the city,” signaling the beginning of a new mission and transformation. Saul’s old life of persecution ends, and a new life of service begins - starting with repentance and obedience. God’s grace and mercy is magnified here - Saul is redeemed from a seemingly unforgivable past and for the rest of his life will be used for God’s glory.

Now Let’s Pray

Dear Heavenly Father thank You for the radical heart transformations that only You are capable of. Remind us that our mercy and grace is renewed every morning, an undeserved gift that should be responded to with worship and praise. Give us the strength and discipline to pray for those who are far from you, and that they will be brought closer.

In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.