There is a common belief among Christians today that Saul was saved on the road to Damascus. The conversion account of Saul, later known as Paul the apostle, is well documented in Scripture. In fact, there are three accounts of his conversion that are candidates to consider if Saul was saved on the road to Damascus. All three are found in Acts. The first is Luke’s narrative in Acts 91. The other two accounts are retellings by Paul himself – one in Acts 222 and the other in Acts 263. Putting these three accounts together, we have an excellent opportunity to consider the sum of God’s word for truth (Psalms 119:160).
How Scripture answers "Was Saul saved on the road to Damascus?"
Saul was not saved on the road to Damascus, he was only told by Jesus1,2,3 to go there for further instructions1,2 after asking, “What shall I do?”2. At that point, he was still in his sin5. After arriving in Damascus, he was there for three days praying and without sight1,2…but still not told what to do…and still not saved – though he had been set apart for God’s calling4.
When Ananias arrived, he laid his hands on Saul and told him he had been sent so that he could receive his sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit1. It was at that moment that he gained his sight…but he’s still not saved. Finally, Ananias tells him not to delay2, but to immediately “be baptized and wash away your sins, calling on His name.”2 Saul was then baptized1,2, even before taking food1. It was at this point, having his sins washed away, that Saul was saved.
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