Editorial January 28, 1933 Issue

Christian Conversion

W. Stuart Booth

It is interesting to note that January 25 is commemorated by some Christians as the anniversary of the conversion to Christianity of Saul of Tarsus. The story of this unique conversion has long aroused the interest and served to inspire the thought of Bible students because of its appealing and vivid portrayal of the operation of the divine law or spiritual order with one whose honesty and intense spiritual desire furnished a response to that law. Also, whether it be recognized or not, Saul's transforming experience typifies the mental processes, in certain points at least, of many who today seek and find the Christ, Truth. Furthermore, this change from Saul the dreaded persecutor to Paul the devout preacher has had, for centuries, a marked effect upon the thought and teachings of Christian believers. This is due, no doubt, to the apostle's experiences, healings, and pleadings as recorded in the book of Acts, and his epistles which are embodied in the canonical Scriptures.

While we have no record or indication of Saul's thoughts as he journeyed toward Damascus that memorable day, some of the preceding events may be enlightening on that point. In spite of bitter persecution, the Christians not only had persisted in their faith, but had gained in numbers. Gamaliel, a reputable doctor of the law, under whom Saul had received instruction, had thus counseled the incensed Israelites regarding the Christians: "Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought: but if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God."

Probably Saul had heard of the healing works wrought by the Christians, and possibly he had been present when Stephen offered his bold and stirring presentation of Christian doctrine, at which time those who looked on him "saw his face as it had been the face of an angel." Then Saul had consented to the stoning of Stephen, and perhaps had heard his prayer for the forgiveness of his persecutors. Detached and candid consideration of these events may have been occupying Saul's thought when "suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven."

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