While recognising that the conversion of Saul has a unique aspect to it, there are also lessons which can be drawn from the detail.

First, the conversion of Saul is one of the clearest Biblical confirmations of God’s sovereignty in salvation. Travelling along the road, Saul had absolutely no interest whatsoever in joining the people of the Way. He thought they were blasphemers; he wanted them to be kicked out of synagogues and thrown into prison. He did not engage fairly with the apostles’ teaching, he did not question his convictions or his conscience. Humanly speaking, there was nothing which prepared him to become a Christian. He was very happy with the traditions of his fathers and the idea that God’s favour can be earned through obedience.

And then, suddenly, the Lord arrested him. Christ revealed himself to Paul. During his time of prayer and fasting, the Spirit worked a true faith in his heart. He recognized his sin; he sought baptism; he became part of the church. An instrument chosen by Christ to carry his name before the Gentiles. A holy one chosen before the foundation of the world. God is sovereign in salvation. He determines the place; he determines the time. He is the King who rules over all.