SOUTHSIDE CHURCH OF CHRIST

The Conversion of Saul of Tarsus, 3 September 2000

Dec 13, 2000

Leland R. Ping
In Acts 7:58, Luke, for the first time, introduces a character by the name of Saul. In the seventh chapter, Stephen is stoned to death for his preaching God's word. And, in this 58th verse, we can read that those who stoned the righteous man "laid down their clothes at the feet of a young man named Saul." It's a simple, yet haunting introduction to a man who will be a central character in the lives of thousands both then and today.
While on the surface the action of Saul holding these people's garments seemed "innocent," we soon find out otherwise. In fact, Luke goes on to tell us that, "Saul was consenting to his death" (Acts 8:1). This first recorded action of Saul as a persecutor of Christians comes one chapter before a drastic change that would occur in the life of this remarkable man.
As Saul was traveling to Damascus, with the authority of the high priest to capture disciples of Christ, a bright light appeared and Saul fell to the ground. Soon after, Jesus spoke and asked Saul the simple question, "why are you persecuting Me?" (Acts 9:1-4). Indeed, Jesus was not one to "beat-around-the-bush" but instead desired to get right to the point. And we, when discussing others' eternal salvation, must also approach the subject with a sense of urgency and seriousness.
Soon after these first statements between Saul and the Lord, Jesus instructs the now blind Saul to go to the city of Damascus where he would be instructed as to what he should do (Acts 9:6,8). Those of the world like to say, referring to this account, that, "Saul was converted on the road to Damascus." And, while some would argue that whether he was converted on the road or later is a mere technicality, I see the Bible teaching differently. Jesus did not tell Saul to accept Jesus into his heart as his personal savior. Instead he was given the command to go into the city and there he would find out what was needed.
Later in the ninth chapter, Saul meets Ananias (who had been sent by God to teach Saul) and Saul's sight is restored (Acts 9:17). Then, Paul tells us, in his own words, that Ananias spoke to him and among the things he was told was to be baptized. In fact, Ananias asks Saul why he was waiting and instructed him to, "arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord" (Acts 22:16). Clearly, then, Saul's conversion occurred not on the road to Damascus, but in the city after Ananias had spoke with him.
The account of Saul's experience on that road and what occurred after are both interesting and important. We must all today be willing to listen to what God tells us. Just as Saul obeyed the commands given unto him, we must also. There are many that know what God requires but for one reason or another, refuse to act. Knowing what God requires is one thing. Following his commands is altogether different. If you're one who has yet to render obedience unto God, then we encourage you delay no longer - become a Christian before it's too late.