Extravagant Grace

This morning we continue in our study through the book of Acts (after a couple weeks without being able to post the recording due to power outage and technical difficulties). In our text today, we consider Acts 9:1-31. The story describes the conversion, baptism, and early ministry of Saul. Saul proclaims Jesus as the Messiah in Damascus and Jerusalem. In response to Saul's conversion the church throughout all Judea had peace and was strengthened. They walked in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit.

The story of Saul's conversion shows us that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace. The extravagant grace and perfect patience of God is on display in Saul (1 Timothy 1:16-17). Though we might not have had a Damascus Road experience, we are God's chosen instruments to take the good news of Jesus to our communities and beyond. We have been called, like Ananias and Barnabas, to walk alongside our brothers and sisters to comfort and strengthen their faith. Followers of Jesus need other followers of Jesus to follow Jesus. As we seek to be gripped and amazed by the marvelous grace of God, we pray that our efforts to make much of Jesus would be strengthen and increase.