Acts 9:1-31 gives us the account of Saul's (Paul) conversion. Acts 9:1 points to him as the ring leader in the persecution of the early church. Vs. 31 highlights the peace that the early church enjoyed as a result of his salvation and consequent change of heart.
The change of Saul's heart was profound and brought immediate testimony from his lips of who Jesus is.
Notice the two men who had significant input into his life. First of all Ananias, who listened to the Lord's call to service immediately, but stuttered a little when he heard who it was God wanted him to meet. Nevertheless he obeyed and witnessed a great transformation along with others in Damascus.
But it was Barnabas (Means 'son of encouragement') who took Saul under wing and introduced him to the nervous disciples giving witness to his salvation.
If we hear and are sure of God's call, let's be obedient. There can be great reward. Second, sometimes God simply calls us to quietly take someone under wing (no great reward) as they join the family of God and are introduced to them. The early disciples had good reason to be skeptical, but they took the risk!
Let's be risk takers for the kingdom.
Pastor Paul.
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