Text: Acts 9:1-19a

Main Idea: The amazing grace of God in saving the worst of sinners is on display in the dramatic conversion of Saul of Tarsus.

1. The arrest of Saul as an enemy. (vs. 1-9)
   • Galatians 1:13-14
   • Philippians 3:5-6
   • Acts 26:9-18
   1. Conversion is by God's amazing grace not sincere works.
      • 1 Timothy 1:15-16
   2. Conversion involves a life-changing encounter with Jesus in which one surrenders to Him.
2. The commission of Saul as a saint. (vs. 10-19a)
   1. Conversion is going from blindness to sight by the power of the Holy Spirit.
      • Acts 26:16
      • 1 Peter 2:9
   2. Conversion makes you a new person, with a new purpose, and a new family.
      • 2 Corinthians 5:16-21

Discussion Questions: Read some of the other passages related to Saul's conversion and note the similarities and differences (Acts 22:1-21, 26:12-23; Romans 1:1-5; 1 Corinthians 15:8-10; Galatians 1:11-24; Philippians 3:4-11; 1 Timothy 1:12-17). What are some of the similarities between Saul's conversion experience and other conversion experiences? What does this passage teach about God's grace in salvation? What does this passage teach about Jesus? What practical lessons might be learned from Ananias' inclusion in this story? What about Jesus' commission of Saul resonates with you?