How should Acts 9:1 inspire us to pray for those opposing Christianity today? Setting the Scene “Meanwhile, Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the disciples of the Lord. He went to the high priest” (Acts 9:1). God’s Sovereign Hand behind the Hostility • Saul’s fury did not catch God off guard; it set the stage for dramatic grace. • Remember Proverbs 21:1—“The king’s heart is in the hand of the LORD; He directs it like a watercourse wherever He pleases.” Even violent opposition remains under divine control. Seeing Potential, Not Just Peril • Saul the persecutor became Paul the apostle (Acts 9:15-20). • Every modern “Saul” may be today’s most effective future witness once redeemed. • 1 Timothy 1:13-16 highlights Paul as the pattern: “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners”—the worst first. Pray with Confidence in God’s Transforming Power • Ask the Lord to intercept opponents on their “Damascus road.” • Plead for unmistakable encounters with Jesus (Acts 9:3-5). • Pray for humble surrender: “Lord, what do You want me to do?” (Acts 9:6). • Intercede for physical and spiritual sight to be restored (Acts 9:18). • Expect fruit that blesses the church they once harmed (Acts 9:20-22). Pray Biblically, Pray Specifically 1. Conviction of sin—John 16:8. 2. Revelation of Christ’s glory—2 Corinthians 4:6. 3. Repentance granted—2 Timothy 2:25. 4. Heart of flesh replacing stone—Ezekiel 36:26. 5. Courage to proclaim the faith they once opposed—Galatians 1:23-24. Love Fuels the Intercession • Romans 10:1: “Brothers, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for the Israelites is for their salvation.” • Genuine love prays not merely for opponents to stop hurting us, but for them to meet Jesus and flourish eternally. Encouragement When Prayers Seem Unanswered • Years may pass between Acts 7:58 (Saul guarding coats at Stephen’s stoning) and Acts 9:1. Persevere. • God stores every prayer (Revelation 5:8). None are wasted. • The church feared Saul even after his conversion (Acts 9:26); transformation can take time to be recognized. Living It Out Today • Keep a list of outspoken skeptics, persecuting leaders, and antagonistic influencers. • Pray the above Scriptures over each name daily. • Watch expectantly: the next great evangelist may now be “breathing out murderous threats.” |
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