Changed by Jesus ✝️

“At once he began to preach in the synagogues that Jesus is the Son of God.” Acts 9:20 (NIV)

Hey friends 👋

We’re continuing through Acts, so open your Bible and study along with me. 📖

Acts 9 begins with Saul still determined to destroy the church.

But one encounter with Jesus would change everything!

Verses 1–9

Saul was “still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord’s disciples.” (v. 1)

On his way to Damascus, a light from heaven suddenly flashed around him.

He fell to the ground and heard,

“Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” (v. 4)

Saul asked, “Who are you, Lord?”

“I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.” (v. 5) ✝️

Saul got up unable to see and was led into Damascus, where he remained blind for three days. (vv. 8–9)

Verses 10–19

The Lord spoke to a disciple named Ananias and told him to go to Saul.

Ananias knew Saul’s reputation and responded,

“I have heard many reports about this man and all the harm he has done to your holy people.” (v. 13)

But the Lord said, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name.” (v. 15)

Ananias obeyed. 🙌

He placed his hands on Saul

and immediately Saul could see again!

“He got up and was baptized.” (v. 18)

Verses 20–31

The man who came to Damascus to arrest Christians now began proclaiming Christ!

“At once he began to preach in the synagogues that Jesus is the Son of God.” (v. 20) 🔥

Everyone who heard him was astonished!

When Saul later came to Jerusalem

the disciples were afraid of him.

But Barnabas welcomed him and told the apostles how Saul had encountered Jesus and preached boldly in His name. (vv. 26–27)

The chapter began with Saul persecuting the church.

Now he was willing to suffer for the Jesus he once opposed.

That is what an encounter with Jesus can do ❤️

No past is too dark.

No heart is beyond His reach.

No life is beyond His power to transform.

When Jesus changes a life

He doesn’t simply change our direction.

He makes us new ✝️