What can we learn from Paul's response to Jesus in Acts 22:8? The Dramatic Encounter Acts 22:8 records Paul’s own words: “Who are You, Lord?” I asked. “I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom you are persecuting.” Everything that follows in Paul’s life flows out of that moment. Paul’s Humble Question • Paul’s first instinct is to ask, not argue. • He addresses the voice as “Lord,” acknowledging divine authority before knowing the speaker’s name (cf. Proverbs 3:5: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.”). • His humility fulfills James 4:6: “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” Immediate Recognition of Authority • A rabbi trained under Gamaliel bows instantly; learning and status melt away before Jesus. • Romans 10:9 reminds us that confessing “Jesus is Lord” is the doorway to salvation; Paul models that confession in embryo. • The posture of surrender becomes the pattern of his entire ministry (cf. Acts 26:19: “I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision.”). Honest Ignorance Admitted • Paul does not pretend to know; he admits ignorance and seeks truth. • This echoes Psalm 25:9: “He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them His way.” • The honesty of “Who are You?” opens him to revelation; deceit would have closed the door. Personal Revelation of Jesus • Jesus identifies Himself personally—“Jesus of Nazareth.” Relationship begins with introduction. • Paul learns he is persecuting a Person, not merely an idea or movement (Acts 9:5 parallels the same truth). • Philippians 3:8 later shows how Paul treasures that relationship: “I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing worth of knowing Christ.” Lessons for Us Today 1. Approach Jesus with humility: lay titles, opinions, and achievements at His feet. 2. Ask honest questions; Scripture welcomes seekers who desire truth. 3. Recognize His lordship first; understanding often follows obedience. 4. See sin as personal offense against Christ, not mere rule-breaking. 5. Expect transformation—Paul’s conversion proves no one is beyond Christ’s reach. Walking It Out • Begin daily time in the Word with Paul’s simple prayer: “Who are You, Lord?” • Surrender areas of resistance; let Jesus rename and redirect them. • Share your story as Paul did, letting the focus stay on what Jesus said and did. • Stand confident: the same Lord who met Paul on the road meets believers today with grace and purpose. |
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