SERIALISED PRACTICAL GUIDE
TITLE: WHAT IS NEXT AFTER THE RESURRECTION?
DAY 13 OF 14 SERIES (THURSDAY 19TH APRIL 2024)
TOPIC: THE DAMASCUS ROAD CONVERSION: TRANSFORMATION THROUGH GRACE
AUTHOR: MARY LAWRENCE-DOKPESI
SCRIPTURE:
“And as he was journeying, it happened that he was approaching Damascus, when suddenly a light from heaven shone around him.” (Acts 9:3)
THE DAMASCUS ROAD CONVERSION: TRANSFORMATION THROUGH GRACE
Saul, a relentless persecutor of Christians, journeys to Damascus on a mission to arrest believers. Suddenly, a blinding light engulfs him, and he hears the voice of Jesus. This encounter leads to Saul’s dramatic conversion, transforming him into Paul, the future apostle to the Gentiles. A sense of awe washes over Saul as he realises the true identity of the voice he hears. The scales fall from his eyes, literally and figuratively, as he embraces the message he once opposed.
Benefit: The resurrection power of Jesus extends to all, including those who have strayed or even actively opposed him. No one is beyond the reach of God’s transforming grace.
Action Step: Consider someone who might be far from God. Pray for them, asking that God might encounter them in a powerful way and lead them towards faith.
Prayer: Almighty Father, your love knows no bounds. Open the hearts of those far from you, just as you opened Saul’s eyes on the road to Damascus. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Further Exploration: Romans 5:8, 2 Corinthians 5:17