_Saul_’s Conversion.
ACTS ix. 22.
_But Saul increased the more in strength, and confounded the Jews
which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is very CHRIST._
IT is an undoubted truth, however paradoxical it may seem to
natural men, that “whosoever will live godly in CHRIST JESUS, shall
suffer persecution.” And therefore it is very remarkable, that our
blessed LORD, in his glorious sermon on the mount, after he had
been pronouncing those blessed, who were poor in spirit, meek, pure in
heart, and such like, immediately adds (and spends no less than three
verses in this beatitude) “Blessed are they who are persecuted for
righteousness sake.” No one ever was, or ever will be endowed with the
forementioned graces in any degree, but he will be persecuted for it
in a measure. There is an irreconcileable enmity between the seed of
the woman, and the seed of the serpent. And if we are not of the world,
but shew by our fruits that we are of the number of those whom JESUS
CHRIST has chosen out of the world, for that very reason the world
will hate us. As this is true of every particular christian, so it
is true of every christian church in general. For some years past we
have heard but little of a public persecution: Why? Because but little
of the power of godliness has prevailed amongst all denominations.
The strong man armed has had full possession of most professors hearts,
and therefore he has let them rest in a false peace. But we may assure
ourselves, when JESUS CHRIST begins to gather in his elect in any
remarkable manner, and opens an effectual door for preaching the
everlasting gospel, persecution will flame out, and _Satan_ and his
emissaries will do their utmost (though all in vain) to stop the work
of GOD. Thus it was in the first ages, thus it is in our days, and thus
it will be, till time shall be no more.
Christians and christian churches must then expect enemies. Our chief
concern should be, to learn how to behave towards them in a christian
manner: For, unless we take good heed to ourselves, we shall imbitter
our spirits, and act unbecoming the followers of that LORD, “who, when
he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, threatned not; and,
as a lamb before his shearers is dumb, so opened he not his mouth.” But
what motive shall we make use of to bring ourselves to this blessed
lamb-like temper? Next to the immediate operation of the Holy Spirit
upon our hearts, I know of no consideration more conducive to teach us
long-suffering towards our most bitter persecutors, than this, “That,
for all we know to the contrary, some of those very persons, who are
now persecuting, may be chosen from all eternity by GOD, and hereafter
called in time, to edify and build up the church of CHRIST.”
The persecutor _Saul_, mentioned in the words of the text, (and
whose conversion, GOD willing, I propose to treat on in the following
discourse) is a noble instance of this kind.
I say, a persecutor, and that a bloody one: For see how he is
introduced in the beginning of this chapter; “And _Saul_ yet breathing
out threatnings and slaughter against the disciples of our LORD, went
unto the high priest, and desired of him letters to _Damascus_ to the
synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or
women, he might bring them bound to _Jerusalem_.”
“And _Saul_ yet breathing out.” This implies that he had been a
persecutor before. To prove which, we need only look back to the
7th chapter, where we shall find him so very remarkably active at
_Stephen_’s death, that “the witnesses laid down their clothes at a
young man’s feet, whose name was _Saul_.” He seems, though young, to be
in some authority. Perhaps, for his zeal against the christians, he was
preferred in the church, and was allowed to sit in the great council
or Sanhedrim: For we are told, chapter viii. verse 1. “That _Saul_ was
consenting unto his death;” and again, at verse 3. he is brought in
as exceeding all in his opposition; for thus speaks the evangelist,
“As for _Saul_, he made havock of the church, entring into every house,
and haling men and women, committed them to prison.” One would have
imagined, that this should have satisfied, at least abated the fury
of this young zealot. No: being exceedingly mad against them, as he
himself informs _Agrippa_, and having made havock of all in _Jerusalem_,
he now is resolved to persecute the disciples of the LORD, even to
strange cities; and therefore yet breathing out threatnings. “Breathing
out.” The words are very emphatical, and expressive of his bitter
enmity. It was as natural to him now to threaten the christians, as
it was for him to breathe: he could scarce speak, but it was some
threatnings against them. Nay, he not only breathed out threatnings,
but slaughters also (and those who threaten, would also slaughter, if
it were in their power) against the disciples of the LORD. Insatiable
therefore as hell, finding he could not confute or stop the christians
by force of argument, he is resolved to do it by force of arms; and
therefore went to the high priest (for there never was a persecution
yet without a high priest at the head of it) and desired of him letters,
issued out of his spiritual court, to the synagogues or ecclesiastical
courts at _Damascus_, giving him authority, “that if he found any of
this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound
unto _Jerusalem_,” I suppose, there to be arraigned and condemned
in the high priest’s court. Observe how he speaks of the christians.
_Luke_, who wrote the _Acts_, calls them “disciples of the LORD,” and
_Saul_ stiles them “Men and women of this way.” I doubt not but he
represented them as a company of _upstart enthusiasts_, that had lately
gotten into a new method or way of living; that would not be content
with the temple-service, but they must be righteous over-much, and have
their private meetings or conventicles, and break bread, as they called
it, from house to house, to the great disturbance of the established
clergy, and to the utter subversion of all order and decency. I do not
hear that the high priest makes any objection: no, he was as willing
to grant letters, as _Saul_ was to ask them; and wonderfully pleased
within himself, to find he had such an active zealot to employ against
the christians.
Well then, a judicial process is immediately issued out, with the
high priest’s seal affixed to it. And now methinks I see the young
persecutor finely equipped, and pleasing himself with thoughts, how
triumphantly he should ride back with the “men and women of this way,”
dragging them after him to _Jerusalem_.
What a condition may we imagine the poor disciples at _Damascus_ were
in at this time! No doubt they had heard of _Saul_’s imprisoning and
making havock of the saints at _Jerusalem_, and we may well suppose
they were apprised of his design against them. I am persuaded this was
a growing, because a trying time with these dear people. O how did they
wrestle with GOD in prayer, beseeching him either to deliver them from,
or give them grace sufficient to enable them to bear up under, the fury
of their persecutors? The high priest doubtless with the rest of his
reverend brethren, flattered themselves, that they should now put an
effectual stop to this growing heresy, and waited with impatience for
_Saul_’s return.
But “He that sitteth in heaven laughs them to scorn, the LORD has
them in derision.” And therefore, verse 3. “As _Saul_ journeyed,
and came even near unto _Damascus_,” perhaps to the very gates, (our
LORD permitting this, to try the faith of his disciples, and more
conspicuously to baffle the designs of his enemies) “suddenly (at
mid-day, as he acquaints _Agrippa_) there shined round about him a
light from heaven,” a light brighter than the sun; “and he fell to the
earth (why not into hell?) and heard a voice saying unto him, _Saul,
Saul_, why persecutest thou me?” The word is doubled, “_Saul, Saul_:”
Like that of our LORD to _Martha_; “_Martha, Martha_;” or the prophet,
“O earth, earth, earth!” Perhaps these words came like thunder to
his soul. That they were spoken audibly, we are assured from verse 7.
“His companions heard the voice.” Our LORD now arrests the persecuting
zealot, calling him by name; for the word never does us good, till
we find it spoken to us in particular. “_Saul, Saul_, Why persecutest
thou Me?” Put the emphasis upon the word _why_, what evil have I
done? Put it upon the word _persecutest_, why persecutest? I suppose
_Saul_ thought he was not persecuting; no, he was only putting the
laws of the ecclesiastical court into execution; but JESUS, whose
eyes are as a flame of fire, saw through the hypocrisy of his heart,
that, notwithstanding his specious pretences, all this proceeded from
a persecuting spirit, and secret enmity of heart against GOD; and
therefore says, “Why persecutest thou me?” Put the emphasis upon the
word _me_, why persecutest thou me? alas! _Saul_ was not persecuting
CHRIST, was he? he was only taking care to prevent innovations in the
church, and bringing a company of enthusiasts to justice, who otherwise
would overturn the established constitution. But JESUS says, “Why
persecutest thou me?” For what is done to CHRIST’s disciples, he takes
as done to himself, whether it be good, or whether it be evil. He that
touches CHRIST’s disciples, touches the apple of his eye; and they who
persecute the followers of our LORD, would persecute our LORD himself,
was he again to come and tabernacle amongst us.
I do not find that _Saul_ gives any reason why he did persecute; no,
he was struck dumb; as every persecutor will be, when JESUS CHRIST puts
this same question to them at the terrible day of judgment. But being
pricked at the heart, no doubt with a sense not only of this, but of
all his other offences against the great GOD, he said, verse 5. “Who
art thou, LORD?” See how soon GOD can change the heart and voice of his
most bitter enemies. Not many days ago, _Saul_ was not only blaspheming
CHRIST himself, but, as much as in him lay, compelling others to
blaspheme also: but now, he, who before was an imposter, is called
_Lord_; “Who art thou, LORD?” This admirably points out the way in
which GOD’s Spirit works upon the heart: it first powerfully convinces
of sin, and of our damnable state; and then puts us upon enquiring
after JESUS CHRIST. _Saul_ being struck to the ground, or pricked to
the heart, cries out after JESUS, “Who art thou, LORD?” As many of
you that were never so far made sensible of your damnable state, as
to be made feelingly to seek after JESUS CHRIST, were never yet truly
convicted by, much less converted to, GOD. May the LORD, who struck
_Saul_, effectually now strike all my christless hearers, and set them
upon enquiring after JESUS, as their all in all! _Saul_ said, “Who
art thou, LORD? And the LORD said, I am JESUS, whom thou persecutest.”
Never did any one enquire truly after JESUS CHRIST, but CHRIST made
a saving discovery of himself, to his soul. It should seem, our LORD
appeared to him in person; for _Ananias_, afterwards, says, “The LORD
who appeared to thee in the way which thou camest;” though this may
only imply CHRIST’s meeting him in the way; it is not much matter: it
is plain CHRIST here speaks to him, and says, “I am JESUS, whom thou
persecutest.” It is remarkable, how our LORD takes to himself the
name of _Jesus_; for it is a name in which he delights: I am JESUS,
a Saviour of my people, both from the guilt and power of their sins;
“a JESUS, whom thou persecutest.” This seems to be spoken to convince
_Saul_ more and more of his sin; and I doubt not, but every word was
sharper than a two-edged sword, and came like so many daggers to his
heart; O how did these words affect him! a JESUS! a Saviour! and yet
I am persecuting him! this strikes him with horror; but then the word
JESUS, though he was a persecutor, might give him some hope. However,
our dear LORD, to convince _Saul_ that he was to be saved by grace, and
that he was not afraid of his power and enmity, tells him, “It is hard
for thee to kick against the pricks.” As much as to say, though he was
persecuting, yet he could not overthrow the church of CHRIST: for he
would sit as King upon his holy hill of _Zion_; the malice of men or
devils should never be able to prevail against him.
Verse 6. “And he, trembling and astonished, said, LORD, what wilt
thou have me to do?” Those, who think _Saul_ had a discovery of JESUS
made to his heart before, think that this question is the result of
his faith, and that he now desires to know what he shall do, out of
gratitude, for what the LORD had done for his soul; in this sense it
may be understood; ¹and I have made use of it as an instance to prove,
that faith will work by love; but perhaps it may be more agreeable to
the context, if we suppose, that _Saul_ had only some distant discovery
of CHRIST made to him, and not a full assurance of faith: for we are
told, “he trembling and astonished,” trembling at the thoughts of
his persecuting a JESUS, and astonished at his own vileness, and the
infinite condescension of this JESUS, cries out, “LORD, what wilt thou
have me to do?” Persons under soul-trouble, and sore conviction, would
be glad to do any thing, or comply on any terms, to get peace with GOD.
“Arise, (says our LORD) and go into the city, and it shall be told thee
what thou shalt do.”
¹ See Volume V. Sermon 24.
And here we will leave _Saul_ a while, and see what is become of
his companions. But what shall we say? GOD is a sovereign agent; his
sacred Spirit bloweth when and where it listeth; “he will have mercy
on whom he will have mercy.” _Saul_ is taken, but, as far as we know to
the contrary, his fellow-travellers are left to perish in their sins:
for we are told, verse 7. “That the men who journeyed with him stood,
indeed, speechless, and hearing a confused voice;” I say, a _confused
voice_, for so the word signifies, and must be so interpreted, in
order to reconcile it with chapter xxii. verse 9. where _Saul_, giving
an account of these men, tells _Agrippa_, “They heard not the voice
of him that spake to me.” They heard a voice, a confused noise, but
not the articulate voice of him that spake to _Saul_, and therefore
remained unconverted. For what are all ordinances, all, even the most
extraordinary dispensations of providence, without CHRIST speaks to
the soul in them? Thus it is now under the word preached: many, like
_Saul_’s companions, are sometimes so struck with the outgoings of GOD
appearing in the sanctuary, that they even stand speechless; they hear
the preacher’s voice, but not the voice of the Son of GOD, who, perhaps,
at the same time is speaking effectually to many other hearts; this I
have known often; and what shall we say to these things? O the depth of
the sovereignty of GOD! it is past finding out. LORD, I desire to adore
what I cannot comprehend. “Even so, Father, for so it seemeth good in
thy sight!”
But to return to _Saul_: the LORD bids him “arise and go into the city;”
and we are told, verse 8. that “_Saul_ arose from the earth; and when
his eyes were opened, (he was so overpowered with the greatness of the
light that shone upon them, that) he saw no man; but they led him by
the hand, and brought him into _Damascus_,” that very city which was to
be the place of his executing or imprisoning the disciples of the LORD.
“And he was three days without sight, and neither did eat nor drink.”
But who can tell what horrors of conscience, what convulsions of soul,
what deep and pungent convictions of sin he underwent during these
three long days? it was this took away his appetite (for who can eat or
drink when under a sense of the wrath of GOD for sin?) and, being to be
greatly employed hereafter, he must be greatly humbled now; therefore,
the LORD leaves him three days groaning under the spirit of bondage,
and buffeted, no doubt, with the fiery darts of the devil, that, being
tempted like unto his brethren, he might be able hereafter to succour
those that were tempted. Had _Saul_ applied to any of the blind guides
of the _Jewish_ church, under these circumstances, they would have said,
he was mad, or going besides himself; as many carnal teachers and blind
Pharisees now deal with, and so more and more distress, poor souls
labouring under awakening convictions of their damnable state. But GOD
often at our first awakenings, visits us with sore trials, especially
those who are, like _Saul_, to shine in the church, and to be used as
instruments in bringing many sons to glory: those who are to be highly
exalted, must first be deeply humbled; and this I speak for the comfort
of such, who may be now groaning under the spirit of bondage, and
perhaps, like _Saul_, can neither eat nor drink; for I have generally
observed, that those who have had the deepest convictions, have
afterwards been favoured with the most precious communications, and
enjoyed most of the divine presence in their souls. This was afterwards
remarkably exemplified in _Saul_, who was three days without sight, and
neither did eat nor drink.
But will the LORD leave his poor servant in this distress? no; his
JESUS (though _Saul_ persecuted him) promised (and he will perform)
that “it should be told him what he must do. And there was a certain
disciple at _Damascus_, named _Ananias_; and unto him, said the LORD,
in a vision, _Ananias_; and he said, Behold, I am here, LORD.” What a
holy familiarity is there between JESUS CHRIST and regenerate souls!
_Ananias_ had been used to such love-visits, and therefore knew the
voice of his beloved. The LORD says, “_Ananias_;” _Ananias_ says,
“Behold, I am here, LORD.” Thus it is that CHRIST now, as well as
formerly, often talks with his children at sundry times and after
divers manners, as a man talketh with his friend. But what has the
LORD to say to _Ananias_?
Verse 11. “And the LORD said unto him, Arise, and go into the street,
which is called _Straight_, and enquire in the house of _Judas_, for
one called _Saul_ of _Tarsus_;” (See here for your comfort, O children
of the most high GOD, what notice JESUS CHRIST takes of the street and
the house where his own dear servants lodge) “for behold, he prayeth;”
but why is this ushered in with the word _behold_? what, was it such
a wonder, to hear that _Saul_ was praying? why, _Saul_ was a Pharisee,
and therefore, no doubt, fasted and made long prayers: and, since we
are told that he profited above many of his equals, I doubt not but
he was taken notice of for his gift in prayer; and yet it seems, that
before these three days, _Saul_ never prayed in his life; and why?
because, before these three days, he never felt himself a condemned
creature: he was alive in his own opinion, because without a knowledge
of the spiritual meaning of the law; he felt not a want of, and
therefore, before now, cried not after a JESUS; and consequently,
though he might have said or made a prayer (as many Pharisees do
now-a-days) he never prayed a prayer; but now, “behold! he prayed
indeed;” and this was urged as one reason why he was converted. None
of GOD’s children, as one observes, comes into the world still-born;
prayer is the very breath of the new creature: and therefore, if
we are prayerless, we are christless; if we never had the spirit of
supplication, it is a sad sign that we never had the spirit of grace in
our souls: and you may be assured you never did pray, unless you have
felt yourselves sinners, and seen the want of JESUS to be your Saviour.
May the LORD, whom I serve in the gospel of his dear Son, prick you all
to the heart, and may it be said of you all, as it was of _Saul_,
behold, they pray!
The LORD goes on to encourage _Ananias_ to go to _Saul_: says he, verse
12. “For he hath seen in a vision a man named _Ananias_, coming in,
and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight.” So that
though CHRIST converted _Saul_ immediately by himself, yet he will
carry on the work, thus begun, by a minister. Happy they, who under
soul-troubles have such experienced guides, and as well acquainted with
JESUS CHRIST as _Ananias_ was: you that have such, make much of and
be thankful for them; and you who have them not, trust in GOD; he will
carry on his own work without them.
Doubtless, _Ananias_ was a good man; but shall I commend him for
his answer to our LORD? I commend him not: for says he, verse 13.
“LORD, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done
to thy saints at _Jerusalem_: And here, he hath authority from the
chief priests to bind all that call upon thy name.” I fear this
answer proceeded from some relicks of self-righteousness, as well as
infidelity, that lay undiscovered in the heart of _Ananias_. “Arise,
(said our LORD) and go into the street, which is called _Straight_, and
enquire in the house of _Judas_, for one called _Saul_ of _Tarsus_; for
behold, he prayeth!” One would think this was sufficient to satisfy him;
but says _Ananias_, “LORD, I have heard by many of this man (he seems
to speak of him with much contempt; for even good men are apt to think
too contemptuously of those who are yet in their sins) how much evil
he hath done to thy saints in _Jerusalem_: And here, he hath authority
from the chief priests, to bind all that call upon thy name.” And what
then, _Ananias_? Is any thing too hard for the LORD? Who made thee
to differ? Could not he who converted thee, convert him also? Surely
_Ananias_ here forgets himself, or perhaps fears, lest this man,
who had authority from the chief priests to bind all that call upon
CHRIST’s name, should bind him also, if he went unto him; but the LORD
silences all objections, with a “Go thy way, for he is a chosen vessel
unto me, to bear my name before the _Gentiles_, and kings, and the
children of _Israel_. For I will shew him how great things he must
suffer for my name’s sake.” Here GOD stops his mouth immediately,
by asserting his sovereignty, and preaching to him the doctrine of
election. And the frequent conversion of notorious sinners to GOD, to
me is one great proof, amongst a thousand others, of that precious, but
too much exploded and sadly misrepresented, doctrine of GOD’s electing
love; for whence is it that such are taken, whilst thousands, not near
so vile, die senseless and stupid? All the answer that can be given, is,
_they are chosen vessels_; “Go thy way, (says GOD) for he is a chosen
vessel unto me, to bear my name before the _Gentiles_, and kings, and
the children of _Israel_: For I will shew him how great things he must
suffer for my name’s sake.” Observe what a close connection there is
between doing and suffering for CHRIST. If any of my brethren in the
ministry are present, let them hear what preferment we must expect, if
we are called out to work remarkably for GOD: not great prebendaries or
bishopricks, but great sufferings for our LORD’s name sake; these are
the fruits of our labour: and he that will not contentedly suffer great
things for preaching CHRIST, is not worthy of him. Suffering will be
found to be the best preferment, when we are called to give an account
of our ministry at the great day.
I do not hear, that _Ananias_ quarrelled with GOD concerning the
doctrine of election; no, (O that all good men would, in this, learn of
him!) “He went his way, and entered into the house; and put his hands
on him, and said, Brother _Saul_;” just now, it was _this man_; now it
is _brother Saul_: it is no matter what a man has been, if he be now a
christian; the same should be our brother, our sister and mother; GOD
blots out every convert’s transgressions as with a thick cloud, and so
should we; the more vile a man has been, the more should we love him
when believing in CHRIST, because CHRIST will be more glorified on his
behalf. I doubt not, but _Ananias_ was wonderfully delighted to hear
that so remarkable a persecutor was brought home to GOD: I am persuaded
he felt his soul immediately united to him by love, and therefore
addresses him not with, thou persecutor, thou murderer, that camest to
butcher me and my friends; but, “brother _Saul_.” It is remarkable that
the primitive christians much used the word _brother_ and _brethren_;
I know it is a term now much in reproach; but those who despise it,
I believe, would be glad to be of our brotherhood, when they see us
sitting at the right-hand of the Majesty on high. “Brother _Saul_, the
LORD (even JESUS that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest)
hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with
the Holy Ghost.” At this time, we may suppose, he laid his hands upon
him. See the consequences.
Verse 18. “Immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales,
and he received sight forthwith;” not only bodily, but spiritual sight;
he emerged as it were into a new world; he saw, and felt too, things
unutterable: he felt a union of soul with GOD; he received the spirit
of adoption; he could now, with a full assurance of faith, cry, “Abba,
Father.” Now was he filled with the Holy Ghost; and had the love of
GOD shed abroad in his heart; now were the days of his mourning ended;
now was CHRIST formed in his soul; now he could give men and devils
the challenge, knowing that CHRIST had justified him; now he saw the
excellencies of CHRIST, and esteemed him the fairest among ten thousand.
You only know how to sympathize with the apostle in his joy, who, after
a long night of bondage, have been set free by the Spirit, and have
received joy in the Holy Ghost. May all that are now mourning, as
_Saul_ was, be comforted in like manner!
The scales are now removed from the eyes of _Saul_’s mind; _Ananias_
has done that for him, under GOD: he must now do another office,
baptize him, and so receive him into the visible church of CHRIST; a
good proof to me of the necessity of baptism where it may be had: for
I find here, as well as elsewhere, that baptism is administered even
to those who had received the Holy Ghost; _Saul_ was convinced of this,
and therefore arose and was baptized; and now it is time for him to
recruit the outward man, which, by three days abstinence and spiritual
conflicts, had been much impaired: we are therefore told, (verse 19.)
“when he had received meat, he was strengthened.”
But O, with what comfort did the apostle now eat his food! I am sure it
was with singleness, I am persuaded also with gladness of heart; and
why? he knew that he was reconciled to GOD; and, for my own part, did I
not know how blind and flinty our hearts are by nature, I should wonder
how any one could eat even his common food with any satisfaction,
who has not some well-grounded hope of his being reconciled to GOD.
Our LORD intimates thus much to us: for in his glorious prayer, after
he has taught us to pray for our daily bread, immediately adds that
petition, “Forgive us our trespasses;” as though our daily bread would
do us no service, unless we were sensible of having the forgiveness of
our sins.
To proceed: _Saul_ hath received meat, and is strengthened; and whither
will he go now? to see the brethren; “then was _Saul_ certain days with
the disciples that were at _Damascus_.” If we know and love CHRIST, we
shall also love and desire to be acquainted with the brethren of CHRIST:
we may generally know a man by his company. And though all are not
saints that associate with saints, (for tares will be always springing
up amongst the wheat till the time of harvest) yet, if we never keep
company, but are shy and ashamed of the despised children of GOD, it
is a certain sign we have not yet experimentally learned JESUS, or
received him into our hearts. My dear friends, be not deceived; if we
are friends to the Bridegroom, we shall be friends to the children of
the Bridegroom. _Saul_, as soon as he was filled with the Holy Ghost,
“was certain days with the disciples that were at _Damascus_.”
But who can tell what joy these disciples felt when _Saul_ came
amongst them! I suppose holy _Ananias_ introduced him. Methinks I
see the once persecuting zealot, when they came to salute him with
a holy kiss, throwing himself upon each of their necks, weeping over
them with floods of tears, and saying, “O my brother, O my sister,
Can you forgive me? Can you give such a wretch as I the right-hand
of fellowship, who intended to drag you behind me bound unto
_Jerusalem_!” Thus, I say, we may suppose _Saul_ addressed himself to
his fellow-disciples; and I doubt not but they were as ready to forgive
and forget as _Ananias_ was, and saluted him with the endearing title
of “brother _Saul_.” Lovely was this meeting; so lovely, that it seemed
_Saul_ continued certain days with them, to communicate experiences,
and to learn the way of GOD more perfectly; to pray for a blessing on
his future ministry, and to praise CHRIST JESUS for what he had done
for their souls. _Saul_, perhaps, had sat certain years at the feet
of _Gamaliel_, but undoubtedly learned more these certain days, than
he had learned before in all his life. It pleases me to think how this
great scholar is transformed by the renewing of his mind: What a mighty
change was here! That so great a man as _Saul_ was, both as to his
station in life, and internal qualifications, and such a bitter enemy
to the christians; for him, I say, to go and be certain days with
the people of _this mad way_, and to sit quietly, and be taught of
illiterate men, as many of these disciples we may be sure were; what
a substantial proof was this of the reality of his conversion!
What a hurry and confusion may we suppose the chief priests were now
in! I warrant they were ready to cry out, What! is he also deceived? As
for the common people, who knew not the law, and are accursed, for them
to be carried away, is no such wonder; but for a man bred up at the
feet of _Gamaliel_, for such a scholar, such an enemy to the cause as
_Saul_, for him to be led away with a company of silly, deceived men
and women, surely it is impossible: we cannot believe it. But _Saul_
soon convinces them of the reality of his becoming a fool for CHRIST’s
sake; for straightway, instead of going to deliver the letters from the
high priests, as they expected, in order to bring the disciples that
were at _Damascus_ bound to _Jerusalem_, “he preached CHRIST in the
synagogues, that he is the Son of GOD.” This was another proof of his
being converted. He not only conversed with christians in private, but
he preached CHRIST publicly in the synagogues: especially, he insisted
on the divinity of our LORD, proving, notwithstanding his state of
humiliation, that he was really the Son of GOD.
But why did _Saul_ preach CHRIST thus? Because he had felt the power
of CHRIST upon his own soul. And here is the reason why CHRIST is
so seldom preached, and his divinity so slightly insisted on in our
synagogues: because the generality of those that pretend to preach him,
never felt a saving work of conversion upon their own souls. How can
they preach, unless they are first taught of, and then sent by GOD?
_Saul_ did not preach CHRIST before he knew him; no more should any one
else. An unconverted minister, though he could speak with the tongues
of men and angels, will be but as a sounding brass and tinkling cymbal
to those whose senses are exercised to discern spiritual things.
Ministers that are unconverted, may talk and declaim of CHRIST, and
prove from books that he is the Son of GOD; but they cannot preach
with the demonstration of the Spirit and with power, unless they preach
from experience, and have had a proof of his divinity, by a work of
grace wrought upon their own souls. GOD forgive those, who lay hands
on an unconverted man, knowing that he is such: I would not do it for
a thousand worlds. LORD JESUS, keep thy own faithful servants pure, and
let them not be partakers of other mens sins!
Such an instance as was _Saul_’s conversion, we may be assured, must
make a great deal of noise; and, therefore, no wonder we are told,
verse 21. “But all that heard him were amazed, and said, Is not this
he that destroyed them who called on this name in _Jerusalem_, and came
hither for that intent, that he might bring them bound to the chief
priests.”
Thus it will be with all that appear publicly for JESUS CHRIST; and it
is as impossible for a true christian to be hid, as a city built upon a
hill. Brethren, if you are faithful to, you must be reproached and have
remarks made on you for CHRIST; especially if you have been remarkably
wicked before your conversion. Your friends will say, is not this he,
or she, who a little while ago would run to as great an excess of riot
and vanity as the worst of us all? What has turned your brain?――Or if
you have been close, false, formal hypocrites, as _Saul_ was, they will
wonder that you should be so deceived, as to think you were not in a
safe state before. No doubt, numbers were surprized to hear _Saul_,
who was touching the law blameless, affirm that he was in a damnable
condition (as in all probability he did) a few days before.
Brethren, you must expect to meet with many such difficulties as these.
The scourge of the tongue, is generally the first cross we are called
to bear for the sake of CHRIST. Let not, therefore, this move you: It
did not intimidate, no, it rather encouraged _Saul_: says the text,
“But _Saul_ increased the more in strength, and confounded the _Jews_
who dwelt at _Damascus_, proving that this is very CHRIST.” Opposition
never yet did, nor ever will hurt a sincere convert: Nothing like
opposition to make the man of GOD perfect. None but a hireling, who
careth not for the sheep, will be affrighted at the approach or barking
of wolves. CHRIST’s ministers are as bold as lions: it is not for such
men as they to flee.
And therefore (that I may draw towards a conclusion) let the ministers
and disciples of CHRIST learn from _Saul_, not to fear men or their
revilings; but, like him, increase in strength, the more wicked men
endeavour to weaken their hands. We cannot be christians without being
opposed: no; disciples in general must suffer; ministers in particular
must suffer great things. But let not this move any of us from our
stedfastness in the gospel: He that stood by and strengthened _Saul_,
will also stand by and strengthen us: He is a GOD mighty to save all
that put their trust in him. If we look up with an eye of faith, we, as
well as the first martyr _Stephen_, may see JESUS standing at the right
hand of GOD, ready to assist and protect us. Though the LORD’s seat is
in heaven, yet he has respect to his saints in an especial manner, when
suffering here on earth: then the Spirit of CHRIST and of glory rests
upon their souls. And, if I may speak my own experience, “I never enjoy
more rich communications from GOD, than when despised and rejected of
men for the sake of JESUS CHRIST.” However little they may design it,
my enemies are my greatest friends. What I most fear, is a calm; but
the enmity which is in the hearts of natural men against CHRIST, will
not suffer them to be quiet long: No; as I hope the work of GOD will
increase, so the rage of men and devils will increase also. Let us put
on, therefore, the whole armour of GOD: let us not fear the face of men:
“Let us fear him only, who can destroy both body and soul in hell:” I
say unto you, let us fear him alone. You see how soon GOD can stop the
fury of his enemies.
You have just now heard of a proud, powerful zealot stopt in his full
career, struck down to the earth with a light from heaven, converted
by the almighty power of efficacious grace, and thereupon zealously
promoting, nay, resolutely suffering for, the faith, which once with
threatenings and slaughters he endeavoured to destroy. Let this teach
us to pity and pray for our LORD’s most inveterate enemies. Who knows,
but in answer thereunto, our LORD may give them repentance unto life?
Most think, that CHRIST had respect to _Stephen_’s prayer, when he
converted _Saul_. Perhaps for this reason GOD suffers his adversaries
to go on, that his goodness and power may shine more bright in their
conversion.
But let not the persecutors of CHRIST take encouragement from this to
continue in their opposition. Remember, though _Saul_ was converted,
yet the high-priest, and _Saul_’s companions, were left dead in
trespasses and sins: And, if this should be your case, you will of all
men be most miserable: for persecutors have the lowest place in hell.
And, if _Saul_ was struck to the earth by a light from heaven, how will
you be able to stand before JESUS CHRIST, when he comes in terrible
majesty to take vengeance on all those who have persecuted his gospel?
Then the question, “Why persecutest thou me?” will cut you through and
through. The secret enmity of your hearts shall be then detected before
men and angels, and you shall be doomed to dwell in the blackness of
darkness for evermore. Kiss the Son, therefore, lest he be angry: for
even you may yet find mercy, if you believe on the Son of GOD: though
you persecute him, yet he will be your JESUS. I cannot despair of any
of you, when I find a _Saul_ among the disciples at _Damascus_. What
though your sins are as scarlet, the blood of CHRIST shall wash them as
white as snow. Having much to be forgiven, despair not; only believe,
and like _Saul_, of whom I have now been speaking, love much. He
counted himself the chiefest sinner of all, and therefore laboured more
abundantly than all.
Who is there among you fearing the LORD? Whose hearts hath the LORD now
opened to hearken to the voice of his poor unworthy servant? Surely,
the LORD will not let me preach in vain. Who is the happy soul that
is this day to be washed in the blood of the Lamb? Will no poor sinner
take encouragement from _Saul_ to come to JESUS CHRIST? You are all
thronging round, but which of you will touch the LORD JESUS? What a
comfort will it be to _Saul_, and to your own souls, when you meet him
in heaven, to tell him, that hearing of his, was a means, under GOD, of
your conversion! Doubtless it was written for the encouragement of all
poor, returning sinners; he himself tells us so: for “in me GOD shewed
all long-suffering, that I might be an example to them that should
hereafter believe.” Was _Saul_ here himself, he would tell you so,
indeed he would; but being dead, by this account of his conversion he
yet speaketh. O that GOD may speak by it to your hearts! O that the
arrows of GOD might this day stick fast in your souls, and you made to
cry out, “Who art thou, LORD?” Are there any such amongst you? Methinks
I feel something of what this _Saul_ felt, when he said, “I travail
in birth again for you, till CHRIST be formed again in your hearts.” O
come, come away to JESUS, in whom _Saul_ believed; and then I care not
if the high-priests issue out never so many writs, or injuriously drag
me to a prison. The thoughts of being instrumental in saving you, will
make me sing praises even at midnight: And I know you will be my joy
and crown of rejoicing, when I am delivered from this earthly prison,
and meet you in the kingdom of GOD hereafter.
Now to GOD, &c.