Theory question 108
Mission to the Gentiles(a) Discuss Saul's experience on his way to Damascus.
(b) How significant was this experience to his future life?
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(a) Saul, breathing threats against the disciples, got letters from the high priest to arrest followers of the Way in Damascus (Acts 9:1-2).
Near Damascus a light from heaven flashed around him and he fell to the ground (Acts 9:3-4).
A voice said, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?"; he asked "Who are you, Lord?" — "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting" (Acts 9:4-5).
He was told to go into the city and be told what to do (Acts 9:6).
His companions stood speechless, hearing the voice but seeing no one (Acts 9:7).
He rose blind and was led into Damascus; for three days he neither ate nor drank (Acts 9:8-9).
Ananias, sent by the Lord, laid hands on him; scales fell from his eyes, he was filled with the Spirit and baptised (Acts 9:10-18).
(b) He changed from persecutor to apostle; he preached at once that Jesus is the Son of God (Acts 9:20); he became the apostle to the Gentiles (Acts 9:15; Galatians 1:16); he suffered much for Christ (Acts 9:16; 2 Corinthians 11:23-28); he made missionary journeys and founded churches; he wrote many epistles; he always referred to this experience as his call (Acts 22; 26).
Narrate Acts 9:1-19, then its significance.