Conversions in Acts

Introduction

In our previous article, we met Saul who was destined to destroy that which was known at The Way. On the way to Damascus, he encountered The Lord and was instructed to go into the city where he would be told what he must do.

We learned that just because he believed Jesus’ words, it didn’t make him a Christian. The story continues, in Acts 9:10, when we meet Ananias (not to be confused with the person in chapter 5).

What? Not Him!

Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias; and to him the Lord said in a vision, “Ananias.” And he said, “Here I am, Lord.” So the Lord said to him, “Arise and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for one called Saul of Tarsus, for behold, he is praying. And in a vision he has seen a man named Ananias coming in and putting his hand on him, so that he might receive his sight.” (Acts 9:10-12)

From Ananias’ response in verses 13-14, he knew of Saul’s reputation and his actions against The Church. He wasn’t keen on going to this man for any reason. However, the Lord assured him this was necessary, But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name’s sake.” (Acts 9:15-16)

Notice towards the end of verse 15, He mentions ‘gentiles’ as part of the conversion plan. But chapter 10 records the first gentile conversion with Cornelius and his household. However, Jesus knows all things and he knows that a lot of Paul’s work will be with the gentiles (Acts 18:6).

Brother Saul…

When Ananias arrived, he might have been surprised to see the individual before him. That is to say, this was not the tyrannical rich young ruler who was carrying Christians away to be killed; rather, a humble and frail young man who was suffering in godly sorrow for the things he has done.

And Ananias went his way and entered the house; and laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you came, has sent me that you may receive your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” (Acts 9:17)

There will be some that say Saul was already a Christian as Ananias addressed him as brother. This isn’t true as we’ve already stated that he isn’t yet a Christian. It simply could mean that Ananias referred to him as a fellow Jew.

Someone else might state that Saul received the Holy Spirit when Ananias touched him, since he told him to be filled with it. This is also not true. We know from Acts 8:18, only the apostles could impart the Holy Spirit. Ananias restored Saul’s sight (Acts 9:18), this is perfectly within the realm of the disciples who were given the gifts. Luke does not record how Saul received the Holy Spirit.

And Why do You Tarry?

It doesn’t say if Ananias preached to him anymore at this time but, as Paul recounts his conversion in Acts 22, he shares this one important statement, ‘And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord.’ (Acts 22:16)

Given that everything that Saul has experienced, up to this point, he immediately obeyed the command to be baptized. He had no reason to refuse. And Saul, himself, knew that he wasn’t saved at this moment contrary to what many denominational groups will tell you. Read 22:16 again, “…be baptized and wash away your sins.” That is how an individual is saved from their sins, by having them washed away.

Conclusion

In a future article, we’ll pick up Saul’s story and learn about his very early days as an apostle and the reaction of others, including the 12 in Jerusalem. It is easy to see the necessity of baptism in this conversion as in all of the others.

There is no reason why anyone should think that baptism isn’t essential for salvation. If you believe so, please share in the comments below and make sure you provide scripture for your findings.