Chapter 987 of 1163

ACTS 9

ACTS 9

ACTS 9

The conversion of Saul of Tarsus was a turning point in the church’s history, and God used several people to touch his life. We remember Paul and are prone to forget the people who helped him get started.

The witness of Stephen was significant (22:20) as were the testimonies and prayers of persons Saul persecuted (Matt. 5:44). Ananias baptized him and encouraged him, and the disciples at Damascus saved his life. When the church in Jerusalem feared to welcome Saul into their fellowship, Barnabas (“son of encouragement”) built the bridge. Barnabas later enlisted Saul to serve in the Antioch church (11:25–26) and traveled with him in evangelistic ministry among the Gentiles (13:1–3).

You may not be called to a prominent work as Saul was, but you can do the job God has called you to do and be an encouragement to others. We do not know the names of the brave men who smuggled Saul out of Damascus (v. 25), but holding the ropes was an important job!

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