The Bible Teacher's Commentary

Paul J. Bucknell

Two Roadside Conversions

Acts 8:25-9:22

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Saul the Terrorist (Acts 9:1-22)

The conversion of Saul is perhaps the most famous in history. Saul, later known as Paul, was a "terrorist" in the sense that he was breathing out "threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord." He was not looking for God; God was looking for him.

The Intervention (Acts 9:1-9)

As Saul approached Damascus, a light from heaven flashed around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying, "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?" Saul’s blindness following this encounter was a physical manifestation of his spiritual state—he had been blind to the truth of Jesus Christ.

The Instrument: Ananias (Acts 9:10-19)

God uses Ananias, a "certain disciple," to go to Saul. Ananias was understandably afraid, knowing Saul's reputation. However, God reassured him: "Go, for he is a chosen instrument of Mine." Ananias obeyed, calling Saul "Brother Saul," which is a beautiful picture of immediate Christian fellowship and forgiveness.

The Comparison of Two Conversions

Saul and the Ethiopian Eunuch represent two very different types of conversion, yet both are equally by God's grace:

• The Eunuch: A seeker, reading the Word, gently led by Philip.
• Saul: An enemy, rejecting the Word, sovereignly stopped by Christ.

Saul, like the Ethiopian Eunuch, was baptized. Many people wrongly baptize people before they believe. This includes infant baptism. Instead, people are to "believe and be baptized." Baptism does not bring salvation but is a symbol of conversion by a public act of obedience.