There is a common belief among Christian’s 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 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. With these three accountings, 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 since he was only told by Jesus3 to go on to the city for further instructions1,2 after asking, “What shall I do?”2. At that point he was still in his sin5. He was then in Damascus 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. Then Ananias found him and laid his hands on Saul so that he would receive his sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit…but he’s still not saved. Finally, Ananias tells him not to delay, 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.

Saul is traveling to Damascus1,2,3 under the authority of the chief priests1,2,3 in order to arrest Christians1,2. While on the road, he sees a vision of the risen Jesus1,2,3 and is blinded1,2 by it. Jesus tells him that He’s appearing to him “to appoint you as a servant and witness”3 (his companions hear1, but don’t understand the voice2). After hearing this, Saul asks Jesus, “What shall I do, Lord?”2 Jesus tells him to continue on to the city where someone will give him instructions1,2. So, he is led into the city1,2 and is there for three days without his sight, praying1 and apparently fasting2.

Meanwhile, Ananias, a disciple in Damascus1,2, also sees a vision telling him where to find Saul1. He’s told that Saul is praying and that he has seen a vision of Ananias laying his hands on him so that he might regain his sight1. Ananias isn’t excited about going1, but in order to assuage his apprehension, Ananias is also told a little about what Saul will do for the kingdom1.

When Ananias finds Saul1,2, he lays his hands on him1 so that he might regain his sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit1. It’s just then that Saul regains his sight1,2. Ananias then tells Saul not to wait, but to “rise and be baptized and wash away your sins, calling on His name.”2 He then is baptized and eats food to be strengthened1 (apparently, he was also fasting those three days).

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