Unbelievable Transformation-A New Family

Saul's Unbelievable Transformation...

• included him in the body of Christ who provided PROTECTION for him.

But his followers took him by night and lowered him in a basket through an opening in the wall… He talked and debated with the Hellenistic Jews, but they tried to kill him.30 When the believers learned of this, they took him down to Caesarea and sent him off to Tarsus. Acts 9:25, 29-30 NIV

As hard as it might be to believe, the church proved itself to be the extraordinary body of Christ in that it accepted a known murderer and terrorist into the fellowship. In contrast to the judgmental and condescending attitude of the Jewish priests and governmental leaders who were focused on retaining their power by any means necessary, the followers of Jesus understood that it was the by the grace and mercy of Jesus that they had life. How could they who had been forgiven much, turn away Saul who had also been forgiven much?

Because of Saul's education and knowledge of the scriptures, he was able to preach and debate with great power and authority. Those in the churches of Damascus and Jerusalem were able to understand that more was st stake than just one man's life. Saul had great potential to change the world and spread the gospel wherever he went. So it was the church took in a man forgiven by Jesus and made him part of their family. I imagine that this may have been just as transforming to Saul's heart as everything else that had happened. The followers of Jesus were truly different!! When the time came, they believers there in Damascus saved Saul's life and protected his ministry for the years to come.

• was a POWERFUL WITNESS of the transforming power of Jesus.

Then the church throughout Judea, Galilee and Samaria enjoyed a time of peace and was strengthened. Living in the fear of the Lord and encouraged by the Holy Spirit, it increased in numbers. Acts 9:31 NIV

I suppose it is an obvious result that the church would grow when the most notorious opponent was converted. With Saul now away in Tarsus at a spiritual "boot camp" of sorts the church moved forward with little opposition. I also believe that there were those who trusted Jesus because of the testimony of Saul. Possibly some thought "If Jesus can save Saul and change him the way we have witnessed, then I will surrender to Jesus as well!" There is far better testimony than a life lived well for Jesus!!

What about my life? Your life? Is it possible that others are drawn to Jesus because of what they see in us?