We come in our study of Acts to the conversion of Saul of Tarsus, later known as the apostle Paul. Many regard his conversion as the most important event in the history of the church since Pentecost. The account of Saul’s conversion is so important to the mind of Luke that it is recorded three times in the book of Acts.

Humanly speaking, Saul was not a likely candidate for salvation. It would be comparable to hearing that Adolf Hitler had gotten converted and had become an evangelist to the Jews! There was no human explanation for Saul’s conversion! But there is no human explanation for any true conversion, because salvation is from the Lord, not from man. God is able to do what we cannot imagine.

Paul’s conversion is an example for us all. It is an example of the fact that none are too far gone for God’s mighty power to save. It is an example of what God can do when He takes hold of a life. It is an example to encourage us to pray for and share with every sinner, no matter how wicked. It is an example for us to commit ourselves afresh to whatever purpose God has given us to do for His kingdom.

Paul says, if the greatest sinner ever - me - could receive mercy from the Lord, than that serves as an example to anyone who believes in him for eternal life. No one is beyond saving grace - No one!

Discussion Questions

1.If sinners lack the ability to believe in Christ or repent, is it wrong to exhort them to do so? Why/why not?

2. Since it is easy to profess faith in Christ, but since many such professions are not genuine, should we immediately give assurance of salvation to someone who has just professed Christ?

3. Many say, “God has done all that He can to save sinners; the rest is up to the will of the sinner.” Why is this a serious error?

4. Is every believer called to serve God, or just some with a special calling? Defend your answer biblically.