Acts 9:1-9
GETTING STARTED:
● At the end of chapter 7 we read that Paul – Saul held the coats of those who
stoned Stephen and Paul gave his approval to what was done.
● This means that he witnessed the power of the Holy Spirit released through the
powerful forgiveness that Stephen spoke as he was brought directly into the
presence of Jesus. Not only did Stephen forgive – but he boldly proclaimed that
he saw the Son of Man standing at God’s right hand.
● This witness will explode with a powerful encounter on the road to Damascus.
Saul has one plan – but God has another. LET’S READ THE STORY.
WHO ARE YOU LORD? Verses 3-9
● Jesus demonstrates his power to Saul in order to bring him to repentance and to
salvation. There is a bright light and a clear voice. Jesus asks the first question:
Why are you persecuting me.
● Saul is convinced that he has met the master – the true Lord and now he asks –
Who are you LORD? You are in charge – you are Lord – and I need to know you.
● Jesus answers – I AM JESUS. Present tense – alive tense. Your persecution of
my church is persecution of me.
● The sign of Saul’s surrender to the Lord is his obedience to Christ’s command.
Go to the city and wait – you will be told what is next.
THE LESSON FOR ALL OF US: The salvation of Jesus is not weak – it is strong. He is
mighty to save. When you meet him – your new plan will be His plan for your life.
A FAITHFUL OBEDIENT BELIEVER. Verses 10-16
● Think about the power in Ananias’ first response – Yes Lord! When we say yes –
it releases the power of God through our life. God always uses the willing.
● The yes is tested by what seems to be a very unusual request. Go minister to
Saul – he is my chosen instrument.
LISTEN: We must believe what the Word says – What the Lord says above the reports
of others. It was not a matter of what Saul had done – but a matter of who he had
become. NOW – he is the chosen instrument of the Lord.
JESUS MINISTERS TO SAUL THROUGH ANANIAS. Verses 17&18
● Saul regains his sight and he is filled with the Holy Spirit. This brings forth
physical sight and spiritual sight. Now – there is new leadership and power in his
life. Jesus is Lord and the Holy Spirit is empowering and leading.
● In obedience – Saul is baptized.
2 TAKEAWAYS FOR TODAY: 1. No one is too lost. Paul will call himself a trophy of
God’s grace – the worst of sinners. It was true. 2. The powerful witness of forgiveness
and love will win over hate and vengeance. The Holy Spirit used Stephen’s witness to
bring salvation to Paul.