Acts 9:3
Verse
Context
The Road to Damascus
2and requested letters to the synagogues in Damascus, so that if he found any men or women belonging to the Way, he could bring them as prisoners to Jerusalem.3As Saul drew near to Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him.4He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute Me?”
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Suddenly there shined round about him - This might have been an extraordinary flash of the electric fluid, accompanied with thunder, with which God chose to astonish and confound Saul and his company; but so modified it as to prevent it from striking them dead. Thunder would naturally follow such a large quantity of this fluid as appears to have been disengaged at this time; and out of this thunder, or immediately after it, Christ spoke in an awful and distinct voice, which appears to have been understood by Saul only.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
he came near Damascus--so Act 22:6. Tradition points to a bridge near the city as the spot referred to. Events which are the turning points in one's history so imprint themselves upon the memory that circumstances the most trifling in themselves acquire by connection with them something of their importance, and are recalled with inexpressible interest. suddenly--At what time of day, it is not said; for artless simplicity reigns here. But he himself emphatically states, in one of his narratives, that it was "about noon" (Act 22:6), and in the other, "at midday" (Act 26:13), when there could be no deception. there shined round about him a light from heaven--"a great light (he himself says) above the brightness of the sun," then shining in its full strength.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus,.... Some say it was a mile from Damascus: though, no mention is made of his obtaining letters from the high priest, only of his desiring them; yet there is no doubt but they were granted him; the design of the historian, under a divine direction, being to give an account of the temper and disposition of Saul; and he having got them, set out on his journey in high spirits, and proceeded on with the same wicked intentions, till he came near the city; where he designed to open and show his commission, and execute his wrathful purposes; but he is not suffered to go into the city with such a Spirit: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven; which exceeded the light and brightness of the sun, for it was at midday, Act 26:13 and so the Ethiopic version here inserts this clause, "and it was noon time"; which circumstance shows that the light was very extraordinary; and it was an emblem of that inward and spiritual light which was now quickly communicated to him, light being the first thing in the new, as in the old creation; and of that Gospel light he was hereafter to spread in the world.
Acts 9:3
The Road to Damascus
2and requested letters to the synagogues in Damascus, so that if he found any men or women belonging to the Way, he could bring them as prisoners to Jerusalem.3As Saul drew near to Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him.4He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute Me?”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
1974 Jerusalem Conference - Part 1
By Kathryn Kuhlman30K45:52ConferencePSA 51:11ACT 9:3In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the weight of responsibility that comes with preaching the word of God. He acknowledges the sacrifices made by the audience to be present and expresses gratitude for their dedication. The preacher also shares his own fears and doubts before going on stage, but ultimately relies on the power of the Holy Spirit to guide him. He urges the audience to recognize that this is a crucial moment for the church and encourages them to embrace their own responsibility in spreading the message of God.
(Heavenly Vision) 1 - the Necessity of Heavenly Vision
By Stephen Kaung8.1K1:18:31GEN 1:3PRO 29:18ACT 9:32CO 4:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that every person has a master, and that master is God. He explains that we are born into this world with a purpose, which is to serve God's will. However, many people fail to understand this and live their lives for their own satisfaction, forgetting about God. The preacher highlights the importance of having a heavenly vision and being united in purpose as children of God. He also mentions the transformative power of God's grace, comparing it to a heavenly light that illuminates our lives and guides us out of darkness.
The Autobiography of Greatness
By Warren Wiersbe4.0K34:54GEN 1:3ACT 9:3In this sermon, Paul stands before Agrippa and his wife, as well as the governor, and shares his testimony of what Jesus Christ has done for him. He emphasizes that his witness is not a defense of himself, but rather a defense of the Lord Jesus Christ. Paul recounts how he saw a light and heard a voice on the Damascus road, and how he was obedient to the heavenly vision. He emphasizes that he has continued in his calling to witness to both small and great, and encourages others to do the same.
Saving Life of Christ - Part 3
By Major Ian Thomas3.9K46:45Life Of ChristACT 5:12ACT 9:3In this sermon, the preacher tells a story about a young boy and an experienced man who are faced with a dangerous situation at sea. The boy is afraid and doesn't want to go out into the storm, but the man explains that their purpose is to save lives, even if it means not coming back. The preacher then relates this story to the mission of Christians, emphasizing that our purpose is to answer God's call and share the gospel with others. He references the book of Acts, highlighting how the apostles used their hands, feet, eyes, and ears to do the work of God. The preacher concludes by emphasizing that we are the only ones on earth that God can use to fulfill his mission, and that the gospel is about experiencing abundant life through Jesus Christ.
Paul the Apostle - a Vibrant Life (Part 1)
By Denny Kenaston2.4K1:06:42Paul The ApostleACT 9:3In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of studying the lives of men as a way to learn theology by example. He highlights how Jesus taught theology through his life and actions. The sermon then focuses on the conversion of the Apostle Paul and the foundation of his ministry. It describes how Paul encountered Jesus on the road to Damascus, heard his voice, and was transformed by the experience. The sermon encourages listeners to prioritize seeking God's face and engaging in the disciplines of the Christian life.
Some Things Preachers Have to Do
By Lester Roloff1.8K53:41MRK 16:15ACT 9:3ROM 10:17GAL 3:11In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of prioritizing time with God and living a disciplined life. He encourages listeners to go to bed early and wake up early to spend time with God. The preacher shares his personal experience of waking up at 12 am to spend four hours with God. He also emphasizes the need for preachers to have a personal encounter with God and to preach the Word of God with conviction. Additionally, he challenges one individual to memorize 60 chapters of the Bible in the next five years. The preacher believes that if every preacher would practice and preach the simple gospel, it would have a transformative impact on society.
God's Mercies in Nepal
By Prem Pradhan1.6K1:19:26NepalMAT 22:37JHN 3:16ACT 9:3In the video, Brother Prem shares his testimony of how God saved him. He confesses his sins to Jesus and asks for forgiveness, experiencing a change in his habits. He reads a book called Testimony over the Brother Boxing, which inspires him to seek escape from eternal punishment. After reading the Gospel of John, he still feels unsure, but eventually finds peace and happiness in knowing that Jesus forgives his sins. He shares his newfound faith with others, distributes gospel portions and tracks, and witnesses a miracle when his grandmother is healed and able to walk.
Vision for the Unsaved World - Part 2
By Leonard Ravenhill1.6K39:24Unsaved WorldACT 9:3In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the critical state of the world and the urgency of reaching out to the lost. He highlights the lack of focus on winning souls in the New Testament and emphasizes the importance of character transformation through God's intervention. The preacher shares his personal struggle with the burden of a lost world and the limitations he faces in his ministry. He concludes by calling for a renewed vision and passion for God and a willingness to admit spiritual bankruptcy and seek God's presence.
The Two Touches
By Bud Robinson1.1K34:03GEN 19:17MAT 17:19JHN 3:3ACT 9:3In this sermon, the speaker shares his personal experience of encountering Jesus and finding victory in Him. He describes feeling lost and burdened, but then meeting Jesus and experiencing a transformation. The speaker references the story of Jesus healing a blind man in Mark 8:22-25, highlighting the three conditions the blind man went through before being fully restored. The speaker relates these conditions to the different spiritual states that every person is in. He concludes by sharing how God touched his heart and changed him, and encourages others to seek a similar transformation through Jesus.
Paul, a Pattern of Conversion and Service
By Rolfe Barnard90450:49Apostle PaulMAT 16:24ACT 9:3ROM 9:1In this sermon, the preacher shares a personal experience of a powerful encounter with God during a sermon. A young Roman Catholic girl in the congregation began sobbing and crying out that Jesus is present. The preacher emphasizes the need for Christians to take their faith seriously and not play around, using the example of Paul as a human pattern to follow. He also highlights the sovereignty of God in saving individuals and the importance of having a burden for souls. The sermon concludes with the preacher expressing his concern for the lack of revival and burden for souls among God's people.
A Life That Lays Hold of Jesus
By Santosh Poonen60229:26JesusACT 9:3PHP 3:8PHP 3:12In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that God wants to use every individual in the body of Christ for His glory. He encourages Christians to embrace their unique identities, including their family background and personal calling, as God's plan for their lives. The speaker warns against wasting time in grumbling and complaining, as it hinders God's work through them. Using the example of the apostle Paul, the speaker highlights how God can transform someone who was once against Christ into a powerful instrument for His kingdom. The sermon concludes with the reminder that God's love motivates His commands to live a life free from sin and worldly desires.
Mighty Man of God
By K.P. Yohannan0SubmissionTransformationACT 9:3K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the transformative journey of Paul the Apostle, who transitioned from a self-righteous Pharisee to a humble servant of Christ after his encounter on the road to Damascus. Initially blinded and led by the hand, Paul learned the importance of submission to God and His authority, which was exemplified through Ananias, a simple disciple tasked with guiding him. This experience of brokenness and surrender was crucial for God to commit Himself to Paul, ultimately shaping him into a mighty man of God. The sermon highlights that true strength comes from humility and obedience to God's will.
Paul on the Road to Damascus
By Art Katz0Divine RevelationTransformationGEN 1:3PSA 36:9ZEC 12:10ZEC 14:6ACT 9:31CO 15:82CO 4:6GAL 3:231PE 2:9REV 1:7Art Katz explores the transformative experience of Paul on the road to Damascus, emphasizing the divine revelation of Christ that changed Paul's life and mission. He highlights that this moment was not just a personal encounter but a foundational event for the entire apostolic faith, illustrating how God's light dispels darkness and reveals truth. Katz draws parallels between Paul's experience and the future revelation of Christ to Israel, suggesting that just as Paul was transformed, so too will Israel recognize their Messiah. The sermon underscores the necessity of acknowledging one's sin and the profound conversion that comes from encountering God's grace. Ultimately, Katz calls for believers to reflect on their own encounters with Christ and the implications for their lives and witness.
Early Life of Charles Finney
By Frank Grenville Beardsley0PSA 51:10MAT 7:7ACT 9:3HEB 4:12JAS 4:8Frank Grenville Beardsley delves into the life of Charles G. Finney, a prominent figure in American evangelism, who, despite not experiencing a religious revival himself, became a fervent preacher of the Gospel. From his humble beginnings on a farm to his ventures in law and eventual conversion, Finney's journey reflects a transformation akin to that of Saul of Tarsus. His encounters with different forms of religious teachings and his critical spirit towards theological doctrines led him on a path of spiritual awakening and deep reflection, ultimately leading to his profound conversion experience.
Homily 1 on Galatians
By St. John Chrysostom0MAT 16:17ACT 9:3ACT 21:17ROM 12:16GAL 1:1GAL 1:18John Chrysostom preaches about Paul's humble and obedient nature in his journey and interactions with the Apostles, highlighting his respect for Peter and James. Paul's zeal for preaching the Gospel among the Gentiles is emphasized, along with his avoidance of building on another's foundation. His humility is evident in his acknowledgment of his past persecution of the Church and the transformation brought about by God's grace.
God Rules and Overrules
By F.B. Meyer0Divine GuidanceTrust in God's PlanPSA 2:1MAT 2:9ACT 9:3ACT 26:12PHP 1:6F.B. Meyer emphasizes that God's guidance is unwavering and leads us to our destined goals, as illustrated by the Magi who followed the star to worship the newborn Jesus. He reflects on the mystery of divine guidance, suggesting that true science ultimately submits to the greater mystery of life. The sermon highlights the importance of presenting our gifts to Jesus, who is worthy of all riches, and reassures that despite worldly opposition, such as the plots of Herod, God's plans will prevail. Meyer encourages believers to trust in God's perfect timing and provision.
The Faith That Saves
By Catherine Booth0ACT 8:27ACT 9:3ACT 10:1ACT 16:30Catherine Booth emphasizes the importance of genuine repentance and renouncing sin before believing in the Lord Jesus Christ for salvation. She highlights the need for individuals to be awakened to the seriousness of their sin, to hate sin, and to be willing to turn away from it. Catherine Booth stresses that true faith involves surrendering to Jesus Christ, trusting in His power to save, and committing one's life fully to Him. She uses examples from the conversions of the Philippian gaoler, Saul of Tarsus, the eunuch, and Cornelius to illustrate the process of conviction, repentance, and genuine faith in Christ.
A Miracle of Grace
By J.C. Philpot0JHN 20:29ACT 9:3ROM 1:16ROM 8:11EPH 2:8J.C. Philpot preaches about how every regenerated soul is a miracle of grace, emphasizing the Divine power required to quicken, convict of sin, and bring souls to the throne of mercy. He discusses cases where God works miracles of grace with abundant displays of power, such as the conversions of Paul, Augustine, and Huntington, each accompanied by supernatural manifestations. Philpot challenges the audience not to doubt these extraordinary displays of God's grace but to recognize and appreciate them as genuine testimonies of Divine intervention in people's lives.
1. Life of St. John in Outline
By Daniel Steele0MRK 3:17JHN 21:20ACT 9:3ROM 8:191JN 1:1Daniel Steele preaches about the life of the apostle John, highlighting his close relationship with Jesus as a first cousin, his youthful enthusiasm, intense insight, and special favor from the Lord. John, along with his brother James, possessed a fiery temperament and were known as 'sons of thunder' for their swift and vehement proclamation of the truth. John's perspective was focused on the divine side of events, seeing everything as contributing to the manifestation of the sons of God, the hope of the world, based on his personal experiences and revelations of the Son of God.
Waiting and Working
By Charles E. Cowman0PSA 37:7PRO 16:9EZK 3:22ACT 9:3HEB 5:8Charles E. Cowman preaches about the importance of waiting on God's timing and trusting His plans, even when faced with unexpected delays or obstacles. He emphasizes the need to surrender our desires and plans to God, acknowledging that His ways are higher and His timing is perfect. Through the example of Frances Ridley Havergal's life, he illustrates how God's love and sovereignty work together for our ultimate good, even in times of waiting and uncertainty.
To Whom Shall We Liken Him?
By Martin Knapp0JOS 1:91KI 18:362KI 2:14ISA 6:8JER 20:9EZK 3:8DAN 5:27MAT 3:2LUK 3:3ACT 9:3Martin Knapp preaches about the remarkable similarities between Mr. Weber and various biblical figures, highlighting his evangelistic zeal, family's conversion, deliverance mission, and prevailing prayer like Elijah. Mr. Weber's life reflects characteristics of Joshua, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Elijah, Elisha, Ezekiel, Daniel, John the Baptist, Paul, and other evangelists, showing his dedication to God's work and the challenges faced in spreading the Gospel. Despite misunderstandings and persecutions, Mr. Weber's impactful ministry has led to numerous conversions and spiritual transformations, echoing the sacrifices and successes of past evangelists.
It Depends on How You Know Him
By Richard E. Bieber0JHN 14:21JHN 20:16ACT 9:3PHP 3:10COL 3:17Richard E. Bieber preaches about the transformative encounters of Mary Magdalene and Saul of Tarsus with Jesus, emphasizing the importance of knowing Jesus as a personal, living Lord who is alive from the dead. He highlights the significance of obeying Jesus' specific instructions and the changes that occur within and around us when we connect with Him. Bieber encourages believers to prepare for a personal encounter with the risen Lord by taking care of unfinished business with God, asking for a deeper revelation of Jesus, and cultivating a heart of gratitude.
Seeing Christ by Revelation (Matthew 16:13-17)
By T. Austin-Sparks0MAT 16:13LUK 24:21JHN 14:9ACT 2:1ACT 9:3T. Austin-Sparks preaches about the mystery of Christ, emphasizing how Jesus is the perfect representation of God, veiled in human form, and how true understanding of His identity comes through divine revelation. The Resurrection and Pentecost marked a turning point in truly 'seeing' Christ, not just physically, but understanding His true nature and significance. The Church was birthed through the revelation of Jesus by the Holy Spirit, empowering believers to witness and represent Him effectively in the world.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Suddenly there shined round about him - This might have been an extraordinary flash of the electric fluid, accompanied with thunder, with which God chose to astonish and confound Saul and his company; but so modified it as to prevent it from striking them dead. Thunder would naturally follow such a large quantity of this fluid as appears to have been disengaged at this time; and out of this thunder, or immediately after it, Christ spoke in an awful and distinct voice, which appears to have been understood by Saul only.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
he came near Damascus--so Act 22:6. Tradition points to a bridge near the city as the spot referred to. Events which are the turning points in one's history so imprint themselves upon the memory that circumstances the most trifling in themselves acquire by connection with them something of their importance, and are recalled with inexpressible interest. suddenly--At what time of day, it is not said; for artless simplicity reigns here. But he himself emphatically states, in one of his narratives, that it was "about noon" (Act 22:6), and in the other, "at midday" (Act 26:13), when there could be no deception. there shined round about him a light from heaven--"a great light (he himself says) above the brightness of the sun," then shining in its full strength.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus,.... Some say it was a mile from Damascus: though, no mention is made of his obtaining letters from the high priest, only of his desiring them; yet there is no doubt but they were granted him; the design of the historian, under a divine direction, being to give an account of the temper and disposition of Saul; and he having got them, set out on his journey in high spirits, and proceeded on with the same wicked intentions, till he came near the city; where he designed to open and show his commission, and execute his wrathful purposes; but he is not suffered to go into the city with such a Spirit: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven; which exceeded the light and brightness of the sun, for it was at midday, Act 26:13 and so the Ethiopic version here inserts this clause, "and it was noon time"; which circumstance shows that the light was very extraordinary; and it was an emblem of that inward and spiritual light which was now quickly communicated to him, light being the first thing in the new, as in the old creation; and of that Gospel light he was hereafter to spread in the world.