Anonymous (via GotQuestions)
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Vin Smith
One of the most beautiful aspects of Paul's experience here is the absolute knowledge that God possesses about each and every one of us. Zero percent chance that the Lord would have picked the wrong Pharisee! His understanding of our every aspect--phenomenal---even to how many hairs are on our heads! (Luke 12:7).
There is a human need to be protected. That's why we buy insurance of every kind--lest our financial security be destroyed, leaving our family destitute. It's a ravenous world out there! Believers are sheep in the midst of wolves--dangerous wolves, often seemingly at every corner (Matthew 10:16).
So, when God calls--ringing our figurative phone number--it is the time of our joyful salvation--as it was for Paul on the road to Damascus. For many are called, but few are chosen (Matthew 22:14)
Mark Wheeless
Saul’s conversion always makes me wonder if he wasn’t being coaxed by the Holy Spirit prior to this time. For example, at the stoning of Stephen, although he didn’t actively participate, he gave approval by holding the cloaks of those that threw stones. He witnessed a brutal death, and saw the expression on Stephen’s face while it happened. I contend that NO ONE could have seen that and not be moved by it, no matter what they said or did. Paul always says, “It’s hard to kick against the goads”, and I believe he was doing just that with his persecution of Christians, in his own mind.