1. This morning we showed from the Scriptures how Paul was thankful and how he has instructed the Lord's followers to be thankful. 2. This evening we are studying the Scriptures that tell about his conversion. 3. Perhaps this will help us understand why he was so grateful. 4. In Acts 9:1-18, Luke wrote about Saul's conversion. a. Paul later talked about his conversion in Jerusalem as he spoke to the Jews who had tried to kill him (Acts 22:1-16). b. He also talked about his conversion in Caesarea as he spoke before King Agrippa (Acts 26:1-18).
Discussion:
I. (vs.1-2) SAUL IS INTRODUCED AS A PERSECUTOR OF CHRISTIANS
A. (vs.1) Saul was abusing the Lord's disciples. B. Earlier,: 1. he was involved in Stephen's stoning (Acts 7:57-58; 8:1) 2. he "made havoc of the church" (Acts 8:3). C. (vs.1b-2) He had authority from the high priest to arrest Christians in Damascus. 1. 22:4-5 2. 26:9-11
II. (vs.3-6) NEAR DAMASCUS, THE LORD APPEARED TO SAUL
A. The Lord had a conversation with Saul. 1. 22:6-10 2. 26:12-18 B. Later, Paul stated that he had seen the Lord (1 Corinthians 9:1; 15:8). 1. Saul was not saved when he saw the Lord, but it was necessary for him to see Jesus in His resurrected state. 2. This was a qualification of an apostle (Acts 1:20-26).
III. (vs.7-9) SAUL WENT TO DAMASCUS AS HE WAS INSTRUCTED
A. Saul had to be led to Damascus because the bright light blinded him (22:11). B. For three days he could not see, and he fasted.
IV. (vs.10-16) THE LORD SENT ANANIAS TO SAUL
A. Initially, Ananias was apprehensive about going to Saul. B. The Lord assured Ananias that Saul was "a chosen vessel."
V. (vs.17) ANANIAS WENT TO SAUL
A. Ananias put his hands on Saul so he could receive his sight (vs.12). B. Ananias informed Saul that he would be filled with the Holy Spirit [a blessing provided to the apostles -- Acts 1:8; 2:1-4]. C. Ananias instructed Saul to be baptized so his sins could be washed away (22:12-16).
VI. (vs.18) SAUL WAS BAPTIZED
Conclusion:
1. Following his baptism, Saul showed how his life had completely changed (Acts 9:19-22). 2. He stated in 1 Timothy 1:12-17 that he appreciated what Jesus had done for him.
