Upside-down kingdom in action - Faatinoga a le malo fefulisa’i

Scripture Focus: Galuega 9:1-9

But Saul, still breathing threats and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest, and asked for letters from him to the synagogues of Damascus, that if he found any who were of the Way, whether men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. As he traveled, he got close to Damascus, and suddenly a light from the sky shone around him. He fell on the earth, and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” He said, “Who are you, Lord?” The Lord said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. Butrise up, and enter into the city, and you will be told what you must do.” The men who traveled with him stood speechless, hearing the sound, but seeing no one. Saul arose from the ground, and when his eyes were opened, he saw no one. They led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus. He was without sight for three days, and neither ate nor drank.
- Acts 9:1-9 (WEB)

Study:

This passage recounts the dramatic conversion of Saul, a fierce persecutor of Christians. The story begins with Saul actively seeking out followers of ‘The Way' to imprison them. However, on his journey to Damascus, he is confronted by a blinding light and the voice of Jesus, challenging his actions. This isn’t a gentle prompting; it’s a direct confrontation with the very One he is opposing. Saul's initial response is one of humble questioning, “Who are you, Lord?” – a pivotal moment of surrender. Notice the immediate impact: Saul is rendered blind and dependent on others. This physical blindness mirrors the spiritual blindness he’s been experiencing. The men with him are similarly affected, hearing a voice but seeing nothing, highlighting the supernatural nature of the encounter. The waiting period of three days signifies a time of intense introspection and preparation for a new life.

Application:

Saul’s story demonstrates that God can work in the lives of even the most hardened opponents. His conversion is a powerful example of God’s grace and mercy. We, like Saul, may be clinging to beliefs or behaviors that are contrary to God’s will. Perhaps we are unknowingly harming others, or we are prioritizing worldly pursuits over spiritual growth. This passage challenges us to examine our own hearts and ask, “Am I truly following ‘The Way’?” Sometimes, God allows us to experience hardship or a ‘dark night of the soul’ to break down our pride and open our eyes to the truth. Like Saul, we are called to surrender our will to God, be willing to be humbled and guided, and embrace the new direction He has for our lives. It also shows us we are called to speak up for those who are persecuted.

Reflection Questions:

• Where in your life might you be unknowingly opposing God's will?
• How does Saul’s humility in asking “Who are you, Lord?” challenge your own approach to faith?
• What ‘blind spots’ might God be revealing in your life?
• Are there areas where you need to surrender control and trust God's guidance?
• How can we follow Saul's example of speaking up for those who are persecuted?

Prayer:

Lord, open our eyes to see You as You truly are. Break down any pride or resistance within us. Help us to surrender our will to Your perfect plan and to follow ‘The Way’ with humility and obedience. Grant us courage to speak up for those in need, and may Your grace transform our hearts. Amen.

Tags: Saul, conversion, Damascus, persecution, grace, humility, surrender, The Way, following Jesus, Acts 9, Christianity, faith, discipleship, spiritual blindness, transformation