Of Freedom and Forgiveness预览

Saul Meets Jesus, Part 2

This is part two of our Bible Application of the story of how the Apostle Paul met Jesus.

Review what happened in Acts 9:1-9. Read Acts 9:13-14.

What is Ananias’ objection to the Lord’s command to go visit Saul? Have you ever felt like God wanted you to talk to someone about a personal relationship with Jesus but had similar thoughts come into your mind? What might have happened if Ananias refused to go and talk to Saul? Paul may have never become a Christian! In verse 11, what does the Lord tell Ananias is evidence that Saul’s heart is ready to listen to what Ananias had to say? Paul was praying and it was intense – crying out to God for mercy and forgiveness. Philip Yancey once said: “Human beings do not readily admit desperation. When they do, the kingdom of heaven draws near.” God humbled Saul so that he would realize how desperately he needed God.

Question: Can you remember a time when God humbled you in order to bring you close to Him?

How would you describe the change that had occurred in Saul’s life? It was a 180-degree turn! A complete turn around! A radical change! This is Paul’s description of what happened to him — and to us who believe in Christ. Not many people have a dramatic “Damascus Road experience” like Saul, but all of us should be able to say, “I am not the same person I was before I came to know Jesus Christ.” Can you say that?

Reflection Time:

1. Where are you now in your relationship with Christ?

2. What is the Lord leading us to do to reach out to others with the Love of Christ?

3. What has happened this week as you have reached out to others to share the love of Christ with them?