“But Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest and asked him for letters to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any belonging to the Way, men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. Now as he went on his way, he approached Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven shone around him. And falling to the ground, he heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” And he said, “Who are you, Lord?” And he said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. But rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do.” The men who were traveling with him stood speechless, hearing the voice but seeing no one. Saul rose from the ground, and although his eyes were opened, he saw nothing. So they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. And for three days he was without sight, and neither ate nor drank. Now there was a disciple at Damascus named Ananias. The Lord said to him in a vision, “Ananias.” And he said, “Here I am, Lord.” And the Lord said to him, “Rise and go to the street called Straight, and at the house of Judas look for a man of Tarsus named Saul, for behold, he is praying, and he has seen in a vision a man named Ananias come in and lay his hands on him so that he might regain his sight.” But Ananias answered, “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much evil he has done to your saints at Jerusalem. And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on your name.” But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel. For I will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name.” So Ananias departed and entered the house. And laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus who appeared to you on the road by which you came has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” And immediately something like scales fell from his eyes, and he regained his sight. Then he rose and was baptized; and taking food, he was strengthened. For some days he was with the disciples at Damascus. And immediately he proclaimed Jesus in the synagogues, saying, “He is the Son of God.” And all who heard him were amazed and said, “Is not this the man who made havoc in Jerusalem of those who called upon this name? And has he not come here for this purpose, to bring them bound before the chief priests?” But Saul increased all the more in strength, and confounded the Jews who lived in Damascus by proving that Jesus was the Christ.” Acts 9:1-22 ESV
Conversion – a change in character, form, or function.
The Power of Saul’s Conversion: Transformative Change in Acts Chapter 9
Conversion is a profound and powerful concept, often defined as a change in character, form, or function. Here are some examples of simple changes we all go through in our lives—clothes, sports teams, friends, physical appearance. Some of these changes can seem really big, however, the most profound type of change happens within us. One of the most compelling examples of this internal type of transformation is found in the story of Saul’s conversion in Acts Chapter 9 of the Bible.
The Areas of Change in Conversion
1. Character
Character is the essence of who we are. It encompasses our values, beliefs, and the moral compass that guides our actions. Saul’s conversion is a remarkable illustration of a dramatic character transformation. Before his encounter with Christ on the road to Damascus, Saul was known for his fierce persecution of Christians. He was zealous in his efforts to eradicate the followers of Jesus, believing he was doing God’s work.
However, when Saul encountered the risen Christ, his character underwent a radical change. This once hardened persecutor became one of the most passionate advocates for the very faith he sought to destroy. His transformation was so complete that he even changed his name to Paul, symbolizing his new identity in Christ. Paul’s letters to the early churches are filled with teachings on love, grace, and humility—qualities that were starkly absent in his former life.
2. Form
Form refers to the outward expression or manifestation of our inner character. It includes our behaviors, habits, and lifestyle. Saul’s conversion not only changed his heart but also his actions. After his encounter with Jesus, Saul was blinded and had to be led into Damascus. For three days, he neither ate nor drank, a period that can be seen as a time of reflection and repentance.
When his sight was restored through Ananias, Saul immediately began to preach about Jesus in the synagogues, declaring that He is the Son of God. This bold proclamation from a former persecutor stunned everyone who knew of his past. Saul’s form—his actions and behaviors—were now aligned with his new character. He was no longer a man of violence and hatred but one of peace and love, dedicated to spreading the Gospel.
3. Function
Function relates to our purpose and role in life. Before his conversion, Saul’s function was to uphold the Jewish law and traditions by persecuting Christians. He believed that by doing so, he was serving God. However, his encounter with Christ redefined his purpose.
Paul’s new function was to be an apostle to the Gentiles, spreading the message of salvation through Jesus Christ to the ends of the earth. His missionary journeys, recorded in the New Testament, show a man wholly committed to his new purpose. Paul endured numerous hardships, including imprisonment, beatings, and shipwrecks, all for the sake of his mission. His letters continue to inspire and instruct Christians around the world, demonstrating the profound impact of his new function.
Reflecting on Our Own Conversion
Saul’s conversion story challenges us to reflect on our own lives. How has our character, form, and function changed since we encountered Christ? Are we allowing the Holy Spirit to continually transform us, making us more like Jesus in every aspect of our lives?
As we meditate on Saul’s dramatic transformation, let us be encouraged that no matter our past, Christ can change us from the inside out. Our character can be reshaped, our form can reflect His love, and our function can align with His divine purpose. Just as Saul became Paul, we too can experience the power of conversion, living a life that glorifies God and serves others.
Small Group Questions
1. Character Transformation: How did Saul’s character change after his encounter with Jesus? Can you share a time when your character was transformed by an experience or your relationship with Christ?
2. Outward Expressions: In what ways did Saul’s actions (form) change after his conversion? How do you think your actions reflect your faith, and where might there be room for growth?
3. Purpose and Function: Saul’s purpose in life drastically shifted after meeting Jesus. What do you feel is your purpose or role as a follower of Christ, and how does this purpose shape your daily decisions and actions?
4. Reflecting on Conversion: If you’ve had a “conversion” like Saul share how your perspective or beliefs dramatically changed? How did it impact your character, form, and function?
5. Ongoing Transformation: Saul’s story shows that transformation is possible no matter our past. What areas of your life do you feel God is still working on? How can you support each other to grow in these areas?
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