Overview:
Have you ever witnessed the miraculous transformation of a notorious sinner? One theologian described Saul’s conversion as the violent capture of a rebel will. Pastor Chuck Swindoll reveals how Jesus had been at work on Saul’s heart for years before their encounter on the road to Damascus recorded in Acts 9. Listen in as he explains the meaning of Jesus’ words to Saul, “It is hard for you to kick against the goads” (Acts 26:14 NASB). Reflect on your own Damascus Road experience. Discover how God will use whatever it takes to bring you to the place of full surrender . . . because in the end, God always wins.
Message Summary:
In “The Violent Capture of a Rebel Will,” Chuck Swindoll explores the most famous conversion in history. As Saul travels to Damascus, “breathing threats and murder” against Christians, he is suddenly intercepted by a light from heaven and the voice of the risen Christ. Swindoll emphasizes that this was not a gentle invitation, but a “divine arrest.” The message highlights the sovereignty of God in breaking the stubborn will of a religious rebel, turning a persecutor into a proclaimer in a single moment. This study serves as a powerful reminder that no one is too far gone for God to reach and that when God decides to capture a heart, His grace is irresistible and His timing is perfect.
Message Key Facts:
- The Journey of Hate: Saul was traveling over 135 miles from Jerusalem to Damascus, fueled by a legalistic zeal to extinguish the early church.
- The Divine Interruption: The conversion happened at midday, with a light “brighter than the sun,” signifying that God can break through even the clearest human resolve.
- The Question of Christ: Jesus didn’t ask Saul why he was attacking a group, but “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?”—establishing the profound union between Christ and His church.
- The Blindness of Saul: Saul’s three days of blindness served as a spiritual “incubation period,” stripping away his self-sufficiency and forcing him to wait on God’s next instructions.
Message References:
- The Man on a Mission of Murder
- Saul’s obsession with the “Way” and his authority from the high priest.
- Scripture: Acts 9:1–2 (Saul breathing threats and murder).
- The Light Brighter Than the Sun
- The sudden intervention on the Damascus road and the physical impact of the glory of God.
- Scripture: Acts 9:3–4 (A light flashed around him; he fell to the ground).
- The Identification of the Enemy
- Saul’s realization that in attacking Christians, he was attacking the Son of God.
- Scripture: Acts 9:5 (“I am Jesus whom you are persecuting”).
- The Surrender of the Rebel Will
- From “What will I do?” to “Lord, what do You want me to do?”
- Scripture: Acts 9:6–9 (The command to enter the city; the three days of darkness).
