(a) Describe how Saul became converted (b) Identify any three visible signs of a convert....

Explanation

(A) THE CONVERSION OF SAUL (ACTS 9:1-22) .

i. Saul, after the persecution of the disciples in Jerusalem, collected letters from the high priest to the synagogue at Damascu

ii. His intention was to arrest Christians and send them to Jerusalem for persecution.

iii. As he approached Damascus, a light from heaven flashed about him

iv. He fell down and heard a voice saying, "Saul, Saul why do you persecute me"?

v. Upon enquiry, he found it was Jesus he was persecuting

vi. He was asked to get up, go to the city and wait for farther instructions

vii. The men with Saul stood speechless, hearing the voice but seeing no one.

viii. Saul rose from the ground but could see nothing.

ix. He was led to Damascus without his sight and for three days be neither ate nor drank.

x. Ananias, a disciple at Damascus, was asked to go to the street called Straight and ask for Saul of Tarsus who was waiting to be healed.

xi. Ananias was unwilling to go because he had heard the havoc Saul had done to the saints at Jerusalem.

xii. God told Ananias to go and heal him because Saw was His chosen instrument to carry God's name to Gentiles and Kings.

xiii. Ananias vent and laid his hands on him saying, "Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus who appeared to you on the way has sent me that you may regain your sight and be tilled with the Holy Spirit".

xiv. Paul regained his sight (something like scales fell off his eyes).

xv. He was baptized, took food and was strengthened.

xvi. At Damascus he proclaimed in their synagogues that Jesus is the Son of God.

B) THREE VISIBLE SIGNS OF A CONVERT

i. Daily study of the word of God.

ii. Embarking on evangelism/Fearless and bold to-spread the word of God.

iii. Daily attendance at church services.

iv. Commitment to the work of God/Faithfulness to God.

v. Honesty in dealing with people/ Truthfulness, in daily life.

vi. Transformed life/new person/upright life .

vii. Ready to suffer for the Lord.

viii. Participating in extra-church activities.

ix. Helping to fight evil in the society.