[:en]Saul’s Conversion (vs. 1-19)
Saul was zealous for his Jewish belief and he began to persecute anyone who believed in Christ (the followers of the WAY). As Saul traveled to Damascus to persecute Christians, he was confronted by Jesus Himself. A light from heaven flashed around him and he became blind. The Lord talked to him personally and he acknowledged that Jesus is Lord. He surrendered his life to Christ and resolved to obey him.
Have you ever have a personal encounter with Jesus? How is your relationship with Him?
Meanwhile, the Lord appeared in a vision to Ananias convincing him to go to the house of Judea in Straight Street and look for Saul. At first, Ananias hesitated but he obeyed to find Saul. When he met Saul, he called him brother and prayed for him. Saul opened his eyes and he could see again. He got up and was baptized.
It is not easy to show love to people whom we do not know specially to those whom we are afraid of. But we must follow God’s command and show loving acceptance to other believers.
Saul in Damascus in Jerusalem (vs. 20-31)
Saul spent several days with the disciples in Damascus to learn out Jesus before beginning his worldwide ministry. Saul’s teaching was powerful and effective because it was wisdom backed up by the way he lived.
Our faith can best be defended not only by words but it should be manifested with a changed life.
Many conspired to kill Saul by keeping close watch on the city gates. So his followers took him by night and lowered him in a basket through an opening the the wall.
When he came to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples but all were afraid of his intention. Only Barnabas took him and assured them of his conversion. he became the bridge between Saul and the apostles.
There are new Christians especially those with questionable reputation) who need people to come alongside to encourage, teach and introduce them to other believers. Be a Barnabas to new believers.
Saul was sent to Tarsus because the Grecians Jews tried to kill him. His visit to Tarsus helped quiet conflicts with the Jews and allowed him time to prove his commitment. After Saul was converted, the church enjoyed a brief time of peace.
Aeneas and Dorcas (vs. 32-43)
As Peter visited the saints in Lydda, he found Aeneas, a paralytic who had been bed-ridden for 8 years. Peter called him to get up in the the name of Jesus. Immediately, he got up and walked. All those who lived in Lydda and Sharon saw the miracle and turned to the Lord.
Tabitha (translated Dorcas) had a good reputation of doing good things and helping the poor. She had an enormous impact on her community. When she died, the room was filled with mourners. The disciples sent 2 men to Peter and urged him to come. Peter went with them and arrived at the room where Dorcas was laid. Peter sent all the people in the room out and got down on his knee to pray. Tabitha got up and Peter presented her to all the people there. This had been known to people all over the Joppa and many believed in the Lord.
Tabitha used her gift of kindness to bring people to Christ. How about you?[:]