(a) Describe how Saul became converted (b) Identify any three visible signs of a convert.

Answer Details

(a) How Saul became converted (Acts 9:1-19)

Saul of Tarsus was a fierce persecutor of the early Church. Still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, he went to the high priest and asked for letters to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any belonging to the Way, men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem.

As he journeyed and drew near to Damascus, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?" He asked, "Who are you, Lord?" and the voice replied, "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. But rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do."

The men travelling with him stood speechless, hearing the voice but seeing no one. When Saul rose from the ground and opened his eyes, he could see nothing; he had become blind. So they led him by the hand into Damascus, and for three days he was without sight and neither ate nor drank.

Meanwhile the Lord spoke in a vision to a disciple named Ananias, telling him to go to the street called Straight, to the house of Judas, and ask for Saul of Tarsus, who was praying and had seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming to restore his sight. Ananias objected because of Saul's evil reputation, but the Lord told him, "Go, for he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the sons of Israel."

Ananias went, laid his hands on Saul and said, "Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus who appeared to you on the road has sent me that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit." Immediately something like scales fell from his eyes, and he regained his sight. He rose and was baptised, took food and was strengthened. Thereafter Saul, who became Paul, began at once to preach in the synagogues that Jesus is the Son of God.

(b) Three visible signs of a convert

• A changed life and character, turning away from sin to righteousness and good works.
• Public confession of faith in Christ, often sealed by baptism and open association with fellow believers.
• Zeal for God shown in prayer, worship, witnessing and proclaiming the gospel to others.