What does Saul's response in Acts 9:6 teach about humility before God? On the road to Damascus: Saul meets the risen Lord Saul charged toward Damascus full of confidence, authority, and zeal—until a sudden light felled him and a voice called his name. In that blinding moment the persecutor discovered he was persecuting the very Lord of glory. Saul’s first words: humble surrender “Who are You, Lord?” (Acts 9:5) “Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.” (Acts 9:6) Two simple sentences capture a complete reversal: Saul confesses ignorance, calls Jesus “Lord,” and waits for orders. Lessons on humility from Acts 9:6 • Recognition of true authority – The title “Lord” acknowledges absolute sovereignty. • Honest admission of need – “Who are You…?” drops every claim to expertise or spiritual insight. • Submission before understanding – Obedience comes first; explanation follows later. • Willingness to be led – Blind, he lets others guide him (9:8). Pride gives way to dependence. • Self-denial practiced, not preached – Three days of fasting and darkness (9:9) prove the inward change. • Openness to correction – The former persecutor is ready to receive instruction from an ordinary disciple, Ananias (9:17). Walking in the same humility today 1. Speak to the Lord with the same twofold posture: “Who are You?” and “What must I do?” 2. Act on the light you have, even when the next steps remain unclear. 3. Allow trusted believers to “lead you by the hand” when circumstances leave you blind. 4. Fast, pray, and listen; silence and simplicity quiet the ego so God’s voice is heard. 5. Keep short accounts—confess sin quickly and receive mercy gladly. Echoes of humility in the rest of Scripture • “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” (James 4:6) • “Humble yourselves under God’s mighty hand.” (1 Peter 5:6) • “I count all things as loss compared to knowing Christ.” (Philippians 3:8) • “I was once a persecutor… yet I was shown mercy.” (1 Timothy 1:13) • “Walk humbly with your God.” (Micah 6:8) Closing reflection Saul began that day resolved to conquer Christ’s followers; he ended it conquered by Christ Himself. His first humble words and immediate obedience set the pattern for every disciple: bow low, listen well, and rise only at the Lord’s command. |
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