Damascus Road Conversion

·34 min·3 clips

Saul, hunting Christians, is struck blind by a heavenly light and hears Jesus ask why he is persecuting him.

The episode opens with a reading of Acts 9, detailing Saul's journey to Damascus to persecute Christians, his encounter with a heavenly light, and Jesus speaking to him. Saul is struck blind and led into the city, where he fasts and prays for three days. The preacher introduces the sermon by noting the well-known nature of this story and various titles others have used, such as 'The Hunter Hunted' or 'The Conversion of a Terrorist'. He argues that Saul's conversion demonstrates God's sovereign grace, comparing Saul to modern terrorists like Osama bin Laden to underscore the miracle required. The sermon stresses that religious activity does not guarantee salvation, citing examples like John Wesley and Abraham Kuyper, who were ministers but not initially Christians. It then explores three evidences of genuine conversion: acknowledging Jesus as Lord, surrendering one's will in repentance, and a life marked by prayer, as seen in Saul's fasting and prayer. The role of Ananias is highlighted as an ordinary disciple used by God to help Saul, paralleled with a maid who led Abraham Kuyper to faith. The preacher discusses initial skepticism about conversions, referencing Larry Flynt's fake conversion, but warns against hindering genuine believers. Ananias's actions—healing Saul's blindness, baptizing him, and commissioning him—are detailed as part of the conversion process. The sermon concludes by affirming God's power to convert even aggressive atheists, encouraging prayer for such transformations. The format is a solo sermon with educational and narrative tones, rooted in Reformed theology and biblical exposition.

As heard by us

A focused sermon on Saul's blindness, Jesus' voice, and grace redirecting a persecutor.

Damascus Road Conversion follows Saul from threats against the disciples and a road toward Damascus into the shock of Jesus meeting him directly: light from heaven, blindness, and a voice that calls him by name.

Read the full review in PlayNext →

Why you'd press play

You want to hear how Saul's mission of threats and arrests is interrupted by Jesus on the road to Damascus.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

Listen to the show on

Apple Podcasts Spotify

Play clips from this episode More from Open House Church Sermons