As we study the book of Acts in our Disciple Bible Study Fast Track, we learn that the book focuses on four important people: Peter, Stephen, Phillip and Paul. Each person is important in fulfilling the promise of Jesus in Acts 1:8 “You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, and Samaria and to the ends of the earth.”

 

     Paul helped spread the gospel to the ends of the earth. But before he did that a defining moment occurred to him. He met Jesus on the road to Damascus and was blinded by a bright light. He heard the voice of the risen Christ say, “Saul Saul why do you persecute me?” Saul asked, “Who are you Sir?” Jesus said, “I am Jesus whom you are persecuting. Get up and go into the city and there you will be told what to do.” Saul was led into Damascus as blind as a bat and for the next three days he spent in darkness and also without food or water.

 

     Jesus had a follower named Ananias living in Damascus and he was told to go to Saul. After much convincing, Ananias went to the address where Saul was staying. Ananias laid his hands on him and said, “Brother Saul, the Lord has sent me that you might get your sight back and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” It was like scales falling from Saul’s eyes. Saul received his sight and was filled with the Holy Spirit and baptized. He became an advocate for Jesus and began to spread the good news wherever he went.

 

     This event was a defining moment in the life of Saul. The Persecutor became a Propagator. He even changed his Hebrew name Saul to a Greek name Paul. Paul went from an angry, violent man to a kind, loving man all because of the transforming grace of Jesus.

 

     Over my many years of Ministry, I have come to see many people changed for the better. They too had a defining moment that revolutionized their lives. Such a moment occurs when we accept the offer of a relationship with Jesus Christ. The best decision I ever made was to say yes to Jesus. What about you?

 

Still missing my St. Paul Family,
Pastor Gene Wells