Paul's commission from Jesus is a pivotal event in the New Testament, marking the transformation of Saul of Tarsus, a fervent persecutor of Christians, into Paul the Apostle, a devoted servant and messenger of Christ. This event is primarily documented in the Book of Acts and is further elaborated upon in Paul's epistles.

Background

Saul, later known as Paul, was a Pharisee and a zealous adherent to Jewish law. He was present at the stoning of Stephen, the first Christian martyr, and actively sought to eradicate the early Christian movement. His zeal for the Jewish faith led him to seek authorization from the high priest to arrest Christians in Damascus (Acts 9:1-2).

The Damascus Road Experience

Paul's life-changing encounter with Jesus occurred on the road to Damascus. As he neared the city, a light from heaven suddenly surrounded him, and he fell to the ground. He heard a voice saying, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute Me?" Saul responded, "Who are You, Lord?" The voice replied, "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting" (Acts 9:4-5). This divine encounter left Saul temporarily blinded, and he was led into Damascus where he fasted and prayed for three days (Acts 9:8-9).

Ananias and the Commission

In Damascus, the Lord spoke to a disciple named Ananias, instructing him to visit Saul. Despite his initial hesitation due to Saul's reputation, Ananias obeyed. He laid hands on Saul, and something like scales fell from Saul's eyes, restoring his sight. Saul was then baptized and filled with the Holy Spirit (Acts 9:17-18).

The Lord revealed to Ananias the purpose of Saul's calling: "Go! This man is My chosen instrument to carry My name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel. I will show him how much he must suffer for My name" (Acts 9:15-16). This commission underscored Saul's role as an apostle to the Gentiles, a mission that would define his ministry.

Paul's Apostolic Mission

Following his conversion, Paul began preaching in the synagogues of Damascus, proclaiming Jesus as the Son of God (Acts 9:20). His boldness and profound understanding of the Scriptures confounded the Jews, and he quickly became a target for persecution. Paul escaped Damascus and spent time in Arabia before returning to Jerusalem (Galatians 1:17-18).

Paul's commission was further affirmed by the apostles in Jerusalem, who recognized the grace given to him. He was entrusted with the gospel to the uncircumcised, just as Peter was to the circumcised (Galatians 2:7-9). Throughout his ministry, Paul undertook several missionary journeys, establishing churches and writing epistles that form a significant portion of the New Testament.

Theological Significance

Paul's commission from Jesus is significant for several reasons. It highlights the transformative power of divine grace, as seen in the radical change in Paul's life. It also emphasizes the inclusivity of the gospel, extending salvation to both Jews and Gentiles. Paul's writings and teachings have profoundly shaped Christian doctrine, particularly concerning justification by faith, the role of the law, and the nature of the Church as the body of Christ.

In summary, Paul's commission from Jesus is a cornerstone of Christian history, illustrating the sovereign call of God and the far-reaching impact of the gospel message.