Acts 9:1-31

Analytical Essay # 115582

Religion and Theology > Christianity
Religion and Theology > The Bible

Acts 9:1-31

An examination of the significance of Saul's conversion in Acts 9:1-31.

3,490 words () | 6 sources | MLA | 2009 United States

Paper Summary:

The paper argues that Saul's conversion serves as a vital event in Acts because it illuminates the validity of Paul's authority or apostleship; hence to be an apostle is to be converted. The paper also critiques Saul's Christophany and in particular, Saul's call, conversion and commission. The paper then links these essential events to what seems to be Luke's chief objective: validating Paul's authority as a suitable apostle.

From the Paper:

"In conclusion, Luke seeks to validate Saul's apostleship through dramatic detailed events found in Acts 9:1-31. The sequences of events are distinct but very similar to Mediterranean literature concerning the conversion of one who "turns" from one perception of life to another perception of life. First, he presents Saul as one who is chosen. Saul is chosen among group members; he hears the voice of the divine. Note here the relationship between the chosen and the divine: there is direct communication. Second, Luke presents Saul has one who is first chosen then converted. To be chosen only is insufficient, conversion is vital as it serves as a period of preparation for one who will proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ. Lastly, Saul is commissioned; his commissioning is the final piece that signifies one who is sent out to proclaim the risen Christ."

Sample of Sources Used:

Talbert, Charles H. Reading Acts: A Literary and Theological Commentary. (Macon, Georgia: Smyth & Helwys, 2005), 82.
Johnson Luke Timothy, The Acts of the Apostles, 5 (Sacra Pagina Series; The Liturgical Press; Collegeville, Minnesota, 1992), 167.
Witherington, Ben III. The Acts of the Apostles: A Socio-Rhetorical Commentary(Grand Rapids: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1998), 302.
Barrett, C.K. Acts of the Apostles: A Short Commentary.(New York: T&T Clark, 2002.), 133.
Zondervan Dictionary of Bible Themes, Martin H. Manser, Alister E. McGrath, J.I. Packer, Donald J. Wiseman (Grand Rapids, Michigan: Zondervan Publishing House, 1999), 468.