Topical Encyclopedia In the New Testament, the account of Ananias receiving a vision is a significant event that highlights the early Christian experience of divine guidance and the unfolding of God's plan for the spread of the Gospel. Ananias, a disciple in Damascus, is mentioned in the Book of Acts, where he plays a crucial role in the conversion of Saul of Tarsus, who later becomes the Apostle Paul.Biblical Account The vision to Ananias is recorded in Acts 9:10-19. Ananias is described as a devout man according to the law, well-respected by all the Jews living in Damascus (Acts 22:12). In the vision, the Lord calls to Ananias, instructing him to go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, who is praying. The Lord reveals to Ananias that Saul has also seen a vision of a man named Ananias coming to lay hands on him to restore his sight (Acts 9:11-12). Ananias expresses concern, reminding the Lord of Saul's reputation and the harm he has done to the saints in Jerusalem. He is aware of Saul's authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on the name of Jesus (Acts 9:13-14). Despite his apprehensions, Ananias is reassured by the Lord, who tells him, "Go! This man is My chosen instrument to carry My name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel. I will show him how much he must suffer for My name" (Acts 9:15-16). Theological Significance The vision to Ananias underscores several key theological themes. First, it demonstrates the sovereignty of God in choosing and calling individuals for His purposes, regardless of their past. Saul, known for persecuting Christians, is chosen by God to be a pivotal figure in the spread of Christianity. Ananias's obedience to the vision, despite his initial hesitation, exemplifies the faith and trust required of believers when responding to God's call. Second, the vision highlights the role of divine revelation in the early Church. Visions and direct communication from the Lord were instrumental in guiding the actions of the early Christians and affirming the authenticity of their mission. Ananias's vision serves as a divine endorsement of Saul's conversion and future ministry. Practical Implications For contemporary believers, the account of Ananias's vision serves as a reminder of the importance of discernment and obedience in the Christian walk. It encourages believers to be open to God's leading, even when it challenges preconceived notions or requires stepping out of one's comfort zone. Ananias's willingness to follow God's directive, despite his fears, is a model of faithful discipleship. Furthermore, the account of Ananias and Saul illustrates the transformative power of God's grace. It reassures believers that no one is beyond the reach of God's redemptive work and that He can use anyone, regardless of their past, to fulfill His purposes. Conclusion The vision to Ananias is a profound example of divine intervention and guidance in the early Church. It highlights the themes of God's sovereignty, the role of divine revelation, and the transformative power of grace, offering valuable lessons for believers throughout the ages. Torrey's Topical Textbook Acts 9:10,11And there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias; and to him said the Lord in a vision, Ananias. And he said, Behold, I am here, Lord. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Paul and his Praying (Continued) The Conversion of Paul. That one God Formed all Things in the World, by Means of the Word ... Our First Proposition Was, that There is Satisfactory Evidence ... Appendix. The Apocryphal Books of the Old Testament. Home Dedication. The Signs which Preceded the War. Whether There is a Gratuitous Grace of Working Miracles? His Conversion New Testament History and Prophecy. Resources Does God still give visions to people today? | GotQuestions.orgHow did God use dreams and visions in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Is God giving people in closed countries dreams and visions to bring them to faith in Christ? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Visions: False Prophets Pretended to Have Seen Visions: Frequently Difficult and Perplexing to Those Who Received Visions: God Especially Made Himself Known to Prophets By Visions: God often Made Known his Will By Visions: Often Accompanied: A Representative of the Divine Person and Glory Visions: Often Accompanied: An Appearance of Angels Visions: Often Accompanied: An Appearance of Human Beings Visions: Often Accompanied: An Audible Voice from Heaven Visions: Often Communicated in a Trance Visions: Often Communicated in the Night Season Visions: Often Multiplied for the Benefit of the People Visions: Often Recorded for the Benefit of the People Visions: Sometimes Withheld for a Long Season Visions: The Prophets of God Skilled in Interpreting Visions: The Withholding of a Great Calamity Visions: To Daniel (See Chapters 7, 8, and 10 of Daniel) Visions: To Ezekiel (See Chapters 10, 40-48 of Ezekiel) Visions: To John (See Also Rev Chapters 4 - 22) Related Terms |
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