Read
Acts 9:1-31
Consider
When our eyes have double vision, we have a lot of confusion and do not know what to do. When God gives us double vision, God would like to affirm His calling to us. Instead of confusion, God’s vision should become our conviction. In his book “Don’t Waste Your Life”, John Piper makes a passionate plea to the next generation to avoid the dangers of a wasted life, calling us to take risks and make sacrifices that matter for eternity — with a single, soul-satisfying passion for the glory of God that seeks to make much of him in every sphere of our lives.
In Acts 9 God called Saul, later called Paul, to embrace the vision from God to proclaim His name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel (v15). For Saul to embrace that vision, he must suffer for God (v16). God used the “double vision” to affirm this calling to Saul so that he can fulfill the difficult tasks God gave to him.
I encourage you to read Acts 9 in its entirety in one sitting. Imagine yourself as Saul. Would you be scared and avoid God or would you boldly seek what God’s plans are in your life? Are we living our lives for the glory of God or are we wasting our lives?
Pastor Julian Wong
Pray
Dear Lord Jesus, I know your plans are better than my plans. Give us the humble heart to listen carefully and follow your vision. Give us the courage to seek and embrace the journey you put ahead of us. Give us the faith and strength to navigate the challenges. May your name be glorified through me. In Jesus Christ’s name, I pray. Amen.
Diving Deeper
What is the most memorable testimony you have heard?
Look at Acts 7:57-8:3. How does Paul’s (known as Saul) backstory help us better understand him?
What do you think about Paul’s call in v15-16? How does that calling prepare him for the life ahead of him?
After experiencing a radical transformation, Paul immediately begins to preach and defend Jesus. Have you seen this happen before? Should this be the norm for new Christians? (this question is designed to spur discussion but there isn’t necessarily a correct answer)
Barnabas has already been introduced as the son of encouragement (see 4:36). How crucial is Barnabas to the life and growth of the Apostle Paul? Why is this role crucial to the health of the church today?
As followers of Jesus, we are called to walk alongside (disciple) those who are growing in their faith. How have you been intentionally living out this call?
Is there anything (person, place, ministry) God is putting on your heart? Discuss as a group and pray for one another.