Three times in Acts, we read about Paul’s conversion:
- In Acts 9, we have the conversion itself.
- In Acts 22, Paul shares his story with the crowd in Jerusalem.
- In Acts 26, Paul makes his defence before Agrippa.
Years ago, a dear older member of our church’s home group pointed out a progression in the description of Paul’s conversion:
- “As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him.” (Acts 9:3)
- “About noon as I came near Damascus, suddenly a bright light from heaven flashed around me.” (Acts 22:6)
- “About noon, King Agrippa, as I was on the road, I saw a light from heaven, brighter than the sun, blazing around me and my companions.” (Acts 26:13)
At each point, the account grows in brightness. It is as if, when Paul reflects on his conversion, his amazement increases and his wonder about Jesus intensifies. His conversion never became a matter of fact distant memory, but an intense, living reality.
How about us:
- Is our view of Jesus getting brighter?
- Do we have a growing amazement about our salvation?
The best is yet to come 