Acts 9:1-22 and Acts 22:3-16
Saint Paul wrote more books in the New Testament than anyone else. He is one of the most important leaders in the early Church and responsible for the foundation of many churches throughout the Mediterranean Sea. Before his conversion to Christianity, however, he imprisoned and even killed Christians for believing Jesus was the Messiah.
As you read this story, pay attention to the transformation Saint Paul experienced after encountering Jesus Christ.
Before becoming a Christian, Paul’s name was Saul. As a well-trained Pharisee, Saul opposed Christians. In fact, he was responsible for the execution of Saint Stephen, the first Christian martyr.
One day Saul set out on a journey towards Damascus to find and imprison some Christians there.
Along the way he saw a bright light in the sky. It was so bright that he fell to the ground.
Then he heard a voice saying, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?”
“Who are you, sir?” he replied.
“I am Jesus the Nazorean whom you are persecuting,” the voice replied.
Saul was blinded by the light. Jesus sent him to Damascus to meet a disciple named Ananias, who had also seen a vision of Jesus. Jesus told him about Saul’s arrival in Damascus and, despite Ananias’s objections, instructed him to heal the man when he arrived.
Ananias met Saul in the streets of Damascus. He greeted him and said, “Saul, my brother, the Lord has sent me to heal you. Regain your sight!”
At that moment, what felt like scales fell from Saul’s eyes. He was suddenly able to see again.
Ananias spoke again saying, “Now, why delay? Get up, and be baptized, and have your sins washed away, calling on the name of the Lord.”
After this experience and his baptism, Saul’s life was transformed.
Ananias welcomed him to stay with him and the other disciples in Damascus. Without delay, Saul began to proclaim the good news about Jesus in the synagogue. The people were shocked by the change. Some forgave him easily while others continued to dislike him.
No one could deny, however, the profound message he preached about the grace and peace of Jesus Christ.
Reflection Questions
- Why did Saint Paul become such a passionate follower of Jesus Christ?
- How do people today experience encounters with Jesus Christ like Saint Paul?
- Have you ever had a hard time forgiving someone or believing that they have really changed? When and why?
Get Weekly Bible Stories for Kids
Take a break! Break open the Word of God with your kids.
The Bible Breaks Stories for Kids will help you set aside just a few minutes during your day to read and reflect on a God’s Word with your kids. Each short and simple story is written to help you teach children ages 6-12 the most important lessons of the Christian life from Sacred Scripture.
Sign up for the Bible Breaks Newsletter and get a new Bible story for kids every week.
