THE POWER OF CONVERSION – SAUL BECOMES PAUL

THE POWER OF CONVERSION – SAUL BECOMES PAUL

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Acts 9:1-19

Key Verse: “He is a chosen vessel unto me.” (Acts 9:15)

Supporting Texts: 2 Corinthians 5:17; 1 Timothy 1:12-16; Ezekiel 36:26; Galatians 1:23-24

Description: God’s transforming grace can turn the fiercest persecutor into His greatest preacher.

INTRODUCTION:
The story of Saul’s conversion is one of the greatest demonstrations of divine grace and mercy. Saul of Tarsus was a man zealous for religion but blind to the truth. He hated the followers of Christ, persecuted them with passion, and even consented to their deaths. Yet, the Lord who searches all hearts saw in him a vessel that could be used for His glory.

On the road to Damascus, Saul encountered the risen Christ in a dramatic, life-changing moment. The light that shone from heaven not only blinded his eyes but illuminated his soul. The enemy of the Church became an apostle of Christ, proving that no life is too lost for redemption.

This passage reminds us that God’s power can reach anyone, anywhere, regardless of their past. When Jesus steps into a person’s life, transformation becomes inevitable.

1. DIVINE ENCOUNTER BRINGS TRANSFORMATION
Before a person can truly change, they must have a personal encounter with the living Christ. Saul’s transformation began the moment he met Jesus on the Damascus road.

a) Encounter beyond religion (Acts 9:3-4): Saul was religious but lost until he met Jesus personally. True salvation is not about religion but relationship with Christ.

b) The power of conviction (Acts 9:5): The question, “Why persecutest thou me?” pierced Saul’s conscience, revealing his sin. Conviction precedes conversion.

c) Surrender to divine will (Acts 9:6): Saul’s immediate response, “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” marked the beginning of obedience. Transformation starts with surrender.

d) Humility before God’s power (Acts 9:8-9): The once-proud Saul became helpless, led by others. God sometimes humbles us to prepare us for His higher purpose.

Biblical Example: The Samaritan woman at the well (John 4:5-30) encountered Jesus and was instantly transformed into a bold witness.

2. GOD USES HIS SERVANTS TO RESTORE THE BROKEN
God often uses others to confirm His work in the life of a convert. Ananias became a divine instrument in Saul’s restoration and commissioning.

a) Obedience in divine assignment (Acts 9:10-11): Ananias listened to God’s voice even when the instruction seemed risky. Obedience opens doors for miracles.

b) Love that conquers fear (Acts 9:13-15): Though Saul’s reputation was terrifying, Ananias approached him in love. Kingdom service requires courage rooted in faith.

c) Restoration through spiritual impartation (Acts 9:17-18): Ananias laid hands on Saul, and his sight was restored. God still works through Spirit-filled vessels to bring healing and deliverance.

d) Empowered for service (Acts 9:19): Saul was strengthened and began his mission. Restoration always leads to empowerment for divine assignment.

Biblical Example: Elijah was sent to restore the faith and strength of the widow of Zarephath (1 Kings 17:8-16).

3. TRUE CONVERSION PRODUCES NEW IDENTITY AND PURPOSE
When Christ saves a person, He gives them a new name, a new mission, and a new destiny.

a) Old life passes away (2 Corinthians 5:17): Saul’s old nature was crucified; he became Paul, a new creation in Christ Jesus.

b) Divine purpose revealed (Acts 9:15): God declared that Saul was a chosen vessel to bear His name. Conversion reveals divine destiny.

c) Grace turns the worst into a witness (1 Timothy 1:13-16):
Paul later testified that he was the chief of sinners, yet mercy found him. Grace redefines our story.

d) Transformation brings glory to God (Galatians 1:23-24): Those who once feared Saul glorified God because of his change. True conversion always leads others to praise God.

Biblical Example: Zacchaeus (Luke 19:1-10) was transformed from a greedy tax collector into a generous follower of Christ.

4. EVERY CONVERT MUST BECOME A WITNESS FOR CHRIST
The purpose of salvation is not only personal redemption but also to testify to others about the saving power of Jesus.

a) Immediate witness (Acts 9:20):
Saul began to preach Christ in the synagogues without delay. True salvation produces boldness to testify.

b) Power of testimony (Revelation 12:11): Our testimonies overcome the devil and inspire others to faith.

c) Endurance in persecution (Acts 9:23-25): Saul faced resistance, but his commitment remained unshaken. Genuine faith perseveres under pressure.

d) Dependence on the Holy Spirit (Acts 9:22): The Spirit empowered Saul to speak and confound the enemies of truth. No witness can succeed without the Spirit’s help.

Biblical Example: The healed demoniac (Mark 5:18-20) went about publishing what great things Jesus had done for him.

CONCLUSION:
The conversion of Saul reminds us that God’s mercy knows no limits. No one is beyond redemption when grace steps in. Just as Saul was transformed into Paul, God can change any life and use it for His glory.

Every believer must be ready to encounter Christ, yield to His will, and become a vessel of witness to the world. The same power that changed Saul is still at work today, turning enemies of the gospel into ambassadors of Christ.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord Jesus, thank You for Your mercy that transforms lives.
2. O Lord, encounter me afresh and change my story.
3. Every spirit of pride resisting Your will in my life, be broken in Jesus’ name.
4. Father, make me a vessel of honour in Your hands.
5. Holy Spirit, use me to restore others to faith.
6. O Lord, reveal my divine purpose and empower me to fulfil it.
7. Every trace of my old nature, be crucified with Christ.
8. Let my life become a living testimony of Your grace.
9. Lord, give me boldness to witness for You in every place.
10. Father, let the fire of revival burn in me continually.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. You shall encounter the risen Christ in a new dimension!
2. Your story is changing from persecution to proclamation!
3. The Lord will turn your weakness into divine strength!
4. You shall rise from blindness to boldness in Jesus’ name!
5. Every trace of your past shall be replaced by divine glory!
6. God will use you as a vessel of revival in your generation!
7. The grace that found Saul shall locate you today!
8. You shall be known as a carrier of divine power and purpose!
9. The Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon you mightily!
10. Your transformation shall cause many to glorify God because of you!