The Story of Saul
While I appreciate ALL of the stories in the Bible, if I were pressed to identify my favorite one, I would probably have to go with the story of Saul. The reasons why are many as the story has something for everyone. However, at least to me, one of it's key points is that no one is beyond saving. What I mean by that is, at times a lot of people, especially Christians, start questioning themselves. "How can Jesus possibly include me among His select, with all that I've done against Him?" Of course, there are more examples but I think you get the point. One of Satan's most used and successful tools is a combination of the lie and doubt. He can create doubt in just about anyone, especially if his target isn't protected by the Armor of God. And if doubt gets it's ugly little foot in the door, the lie can't be too far behind.
So, what does this have to do with Saul? Well, let's see.
Saul of Tarsus swore to completely destroy the new Christian faith, after the crucifixion and subsequent resurrection of Jesus Christ. Saul, in his quest, obtained letters from the high priest, authorizing him to arrest any followers of Jesus in the city of Damascus. In fact, when Stephen (the first recorded Christian martyr in the New Testament) was killed, Saul was there (watching the cloaks of those who were stoning Stephen). On the Damascus Road, Saul and his companions were struck down by a blinding light, brighter than the noonday sun. Saul heard a voice say to him:
"Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?" (Acts 9:4, NIV)
When Saul asked who was speaking to him, the voice replied, "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do." (Acts 9:5-6, NIV)
Even though the men accompanying Saul heard the sound, they didn't see what Saul saw. Saul had seen the vision of the risen Christ. As such, Saul was blinded and the men had to lead him to their destination of Damascus. Once in Damascus, Saul was led to Straight Street and a man named Judas. For three days, Saul was blinded and during that time, he did not eat or drink anything.
In the meantime, Jesus appeared in a vision to a disciple in Damascus named Ananias and told him to go to Saul. Ananias was afraid because he knew Saul's reputation as a merciless persecutor of the church.
Jesus repeated his command, explaining that Saul was his chosen instrument to deliver the gospel to the Gentiles, their kings, and the people of Israel. Ananias found Saul at the house of Judas, just like Jesus directed. Ananias then laid hands on Saul, telling him that Jesus had sent him, to restore Saul's sight and that Saul might be filled with the Holy Spirit.
The scales which had encrusted Saul's eyes, preventing him from seeing, fell away and Saul's vision returned. Saul was told that he would be Jesus' witness to all men of what he had seen and heard. At that time, Saul got up and was baptized a follower of Christ Jesus. Saul was to become known as the apostle to the Gentiles (non-Jews) whereas Peter was called the apostle to the Jews.
Saul became the Apostle Paul.
That's right. The same man who authored almost half of the books in the New Testament (Romans, 1 Corinthians, 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1 Thessalonians, 2 Thessalonians, 1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, Titus and Philemon) was once the lead persecutor of Christians.
Paul suffered much in spreading the Gospel. Most of his missionary efforts were in what is modern day Greece and Turkey, and the surrounding areas. Suffer as he did, nothing stopped Paul from spreading the Word of Jesus Christ.
While there is more (I encourage you to pick up the Word and read this incredible story of the conversion of Saul), it's important to understand there are many things that can be learned from this story. As I said previously, I personally find it comforting when I get down, wondering how Jesus could ever love someone like me. And the wonderful thing about it? His Grace and Promise are free for anyone willing to accept Him.
Thank you Lord for all you have done for me and continue to do, even as undeserving as I am.
Have a GREAT weekend folks!
