True Encounters with Christ - Acts 9
Pastor John & Stephanie Jahnke
True Encounters with Christ: Transformation and Healing
Introduction
Thank you all for being here this morning. As I was preparing for the sermon this week, I thought of various illustrations to include. However, I realized we already have a perfect real-life illustration that you’ll hear about later from my wife, Stephanie, who is sitting in the front row.
The Book of Acts
We've been exploring the book of Acts, witnessing the incredible events following Jesus’ resurrection. He gave His disciples the Great Commission to spread the good news of salvation. Before they could embark on this mission, they were instructed to wait for the gift of the Holy Spirit to empower them to proclaim the gospel effectively.
Peter’s Transformation
We saw Peter, who had previously denied knowing Jesus, boldly proclaiming the good news on the day of Pentecost after being filled with the Holy Spirit. This transformation was profound. Just days before, Peter had been afraid to admit his association with Jesus, even to a servant girl. But when the Holy Spirit filled him, he spoke with boldness and clarity, leading thousands to faith. This change in Peter is a powerful example of how the Holy Spirit can empower and transform us.
The Early Church
The early church began meeting in homes and synagogues, studying God’s word, praying, singing, and breaking bread together. This community life was vibrant and dynamic. They shared everything they had, ensuring no one was in need. This selfless sharing and the signs and wonders performed by the apostles drew more people to the faith daily. God expanded His kingdom through their unity and love for one another. However, as the church grew, so did the challenges. There were logistical issues in meeting the needs of the growing community, particularly the widows and those who were overlooked in the daily distribution of food.
The Appointment of Deacons
To address these needs, the apostles appointed seven deacons. Among them was Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit. Stephen not only served the community but also boldly proclaimed the gospel. His powerful testimony and miracles attracted attention and opposition. Eventually, this led to his martyrdom, making him the first Christian martyr. Stephen’s death marked a significant turning point in the early church. It sparked severe persecution, scattering the believers and inadvertently spreading the gospel further.
Introduction to Saul
In Acts 7, we meet Saul, who approved of Stephen’s stoning. Saul was a devout Jewish Pharisee, well-versed in the law, and zealous for God. His zeal, however, led him to become a fierce persecutor of Christians. He believed he was serving God by eradicating what he saw as a dangerous sect. This brings us to Acts 9, where Saul’s life would change forever.
Saul’s Encounter with Christ
Meanwhile, Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord’s disciples. He went to the high priest and asked him for letters to the synagogues in Damascus, so that if he found any there who belonged to the Way, whether men or women, he might take them as prisoners to Jerusalem. As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?”
“Who are you, Lord?” Saul asked.
“I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,” he replied. “Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”
The men traveling with Saul stood there speechless; they heard the sound but did not see anyone. Saul got up from the ground, but when he opened his eyes he could see nothing. So they led him by the hand into Damascus. For three days he was blind, and did not eat or drink anything. (Acts 9:1-9, NIV)
This dramatic encounter was a turning point for Saul. He was confronted with the reality that his fervent actions against Christians were, in fact, against Jesus Himself. This realization shattered his previous beliefs and left him in a state of helplessness and dependency, symbolized by his blindness.
Realization and Prayer
Saul’s encounter with Christ brought a realization that he was wrong about Jesus. This led him to seek God in prayer. During his three days of blindness, God revealed truths to Saul and prepared him for his new mission. This period of waiting and praying was crucial. It was a time of deep reflection and soul-searching for Saul, as he grappled with the truth about Jesus and his own misguided zeal.
Ananias’ Vision
In Damascus, a disciple named Ananias received a vision from the Lord instructing him to visit Saul. Despite his initial fear, Ananias obeyed, addressing Saul as "Brother Saul" and restoring his sight. Saul was filled with the Holy Spirit, baptized, and began proclaiming the gospel boldly.
Ananias’ obedience was significant. He had every reason to fear Saul, known for his persecution of Christians. Yet, he trusted God’s instruction, demonstrating the kind of faith and courage that God calls us to exhibit. Ananias’ visit was a confirmation of God’s grace and forgiveness, affirming Saul’s new identity in Christ.
Identity Change
Saul’s identity was transformed from a persecutor of Christians to a follower of Christ. He no longer boasted about his Pharisaic credentials but identified himself in Christ. This transformation led to a new mission: to be God’s chosen instrument to proclaim Jesus to the Gentiles, their kings, and the people of Israel, even if it meant suffering.
But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel. I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.”
Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here—has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized, and after taking some food, he regained his strength. (Acts 9:15-19, NIV)
Saul’s new identity was marked by humility and service. He understood that his previous accomplishments and status meant nothing compared to the surpassing worth of knowing Christ. This humility and dedication became the hallmark of his ministry, as he tirelessly worked to spread the gospel despite facing numerous hardships.
Healing and Empowerment
A true encounter with Christ results in healing and being filled with the Holy Spirit. Although not always immediate or physical, healing is a testament to God's will. Being filled with the Holy Spirit empowers believers to boldly proclaim the gospel, as evidenced by Saul’s transformation into Paul, who spoke in tongues and prayed fervently.
Paul’s ministry was characterized by signs and wonders, confirming the message of the gospel. The Holy Spirit’s empowerment enabled him to perform miracles, survive persecutions, and endure countless trials. This same empowerment is available to all believers, equipping us to fulfill our God-given missions.
Bold Proclamation
True encounters with Christ lead to bold proclamation of the gospel. Paul's life was a testament to this, as he traveled extensively, preaching and teaching about Jesus. His transformation was profound, and his message clear: Jesus is the Messiah.
“At once he began to preach in the synagogues that Jesus is the Son of God. All those who heard him were astonished and asked, ‘Isn't he the man who raised havoc in Jerusalem among those who call on this name? And hasn't he come here to take them as prisoners to the chief priests?’ Yet Saul grew more and more powerful and baffled the Jews living in Damascus by proving that Jesus is the Messiah.” (Acts 9:20-22, NIV)
Paul’s boldness often put him at odds with religious and political authorities, yet he remained steadfast. His letters to the churches provide deep theological insights and practical guidance, forming a significant part of the New Testament. His unwavering commitment to the gospel serves as an inspiration for all believers to speak boldly about their faith.
Stephanie’s Testimony
Stephanie’s story is a powerful example of transformation through a true encounter with Christ. Growing up in church, she followed all the rules and knew all the Bible stories. However, her faith was tested when her twin daughters, Sarah and Alana, were born prematurely. Alana passed away shortly after birth, and Stephanie was left angry and disillusioned with God.
For months, Stephanie struggled with anger towards God, hiding her true feelings behind a façade. It wasn’t until she heard God’s voice gently urging her to "let it go" that she began to surrender her anger. During a worship service, she felt God’s presence so powerfully that her anger and bitterness were washed away, and she experienced God’s love and healing.
Anger and Healing
Stephanie’s journey through grief and anger to healing is a testament to God’s transformative power. Her initial response to her daughter’s death was anger and a sense of betrayal by God. This is a natural human reaction to profound loss and suffering. For a long time, she maintained a façade, participating in church activities while feeling disconnected from God.
However, God’s gentle promptings to "let it go" began to soften her heart. The turning point came during a worship service when she decided to surrender her anger. The experience of God’s overwhelming love and presence brought profound healing. This encounter showed her that God is not harsh and judgmental but compassionate and loving.
A Shift in Understanding
This encounter shifted Stephanie’s understanding of God. She realized that God wasn’t harsh and judgmental but kind and gentle, desiring a close relationship with her. She
began to see the Old Testament prophets’ messages not just as warnings of impending doom but as expressions of God’s broken heart for His people, calling them back to Him.
Stephanie’s new perspective transformed her faith. She understood that God’s commandments are not about rigid rule-keeping but about fostering a loving relationship with Him. This realization freed her from the burden of trying to be a "perfect" Christian and allowed her to experience God’s grace more fully.
Conclusion
True encounters with Christ bring transformation and healing. Whether through Saul’s dramatic conversion or Stephanie’s journey from anger to healing, God’s love and grace are evident. These encounters call us to boldly proclaim the gospel, live transformed lives, and draw near to God, who desires a personal relationship with each of us.
Ephesians 2:13
"But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ."
God wants to have an encounter with each of us, to show us who He truly is and bring us close to Him. If you feel far from God, know that He is waiting to embrace you with His love and transform your life. Just as Saul’s life was radically changed on the road to Damascus, and just as Stephanie found healing in her deepest pain, you too can experience a true encounter with Christ. He is ready to meet you where you are, to bring you near, and to transform your life with His love and grace.
