From New Testament Miracle to Common Phrase by Myra Kahn Adams for Town Hall
Thanks for joining our Bible study. The headline teases a miraculous occurrence on the “road to Damascus” that changed the world. Later, the phrase was incorporated into our language. Here is the background.
A Jewish scholar named Saul was persecuting Jewish followers of Jesus Christ. But Jesus intervened (as only He can). He unleashed His heavenly power on Saul, who converted to believing that Jesus was Lord. Saul, who was renamed “Paul,” traveled extensively in the name of Jesus, enduring suffering, hardship, and martyrdom.
Paul’s prolific writings formed much of the New Testament. His impact on Christianity evolving into the world’s largest and most influential religion is unmatched (except by Christ himself).
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Over time, Paul’s supernatural conversion took on greater significance with the “road to Damascus” morphing into a secular term referring to any transformative event or life-changing moment that facilitates a permanent course correction.
With that said, let’s turn to Acts 9:1-19 and learn (or refresh your knowledge) about all the details and lasting significance of this seminal event. I will paraphrase for space considerations.
Saul of Tarsus was a Pharisee, a select group of learned Jewish men. He studied under Gamaliel, the most revered teacher of Hebrew law. (See Vol. 58.)
Saul developed a zeal for persecuting Jews who believed that Jesus was the Jewish Messiah. He authorized and was present during the stoning of Stephen — the first martyr for Christ. (See Vol. 57.)
