Paul's commissioning by 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 proclaimer of the Gospel. This event is primarily documented in the Book of Acts and is referenced in Paul's epistles, providing insight into his divine calling and the authority of his apostolic mission.

Background

Saul, later known as Paul, was a zealous Pharisee, well-versed in Jewish law and traditions. He was born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, and was a Roman citizen by birth. Saul's early life was characterized by his rigorous adherence to the Jewish faith and his active role in persecuting the early Christian church. He was present at the stoning of Stephen, the first Christian martyr, and "approved of his killing" (Acts 8:1).

The Damascus Road Experience

Paul's commissioning by Jesus occurred on the road to Damascus, where he was traveling to arrest Christians and bring them to Jerusalem. This transformative encounter is described in Acts 9:1-19, Acts 22:6-16, and Acts 26:12-18. As Saul journeyed, 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?" (Acts 9:4). Saul responded, "Who are You, Lord?" to which the voice replied, "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting" (Acts 9:5).

Blinded by the light, Saul was led by his companions into Damascus, where he remained without sight for three days, neither eating nor drinking. During this time, 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).

Divine Commission

The Lord's words to Ananias reveal the divine purpose for Saul's life: "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 commissioning underscores the unique role Paul would play in spreading the Gospel beyond the Jewish community, emphasizing the inclusivity of God's salvation plan.

Paul's Apostolic Authority

Paul's encounter with the risen Christ was foundational to his apostolic authority. In his letters, Paul frequently refers to his divine calling and the revelation he received directly from Jesus Christ. In Galatians 1:11-12, he asserts, "I want you to know, brothers, that the gospel I preached is not something that man made up. I did not receive it from any man, nor was I taught it; rather, I received it by revelation from Jesus Christ" .

Impact on the Early Church

Paul's commissioning had a profound impact on the early church and the spread of Christianity. As an apostle to the Gentiles, Paul embarked on several missionary journeys, establishing churches throughout the Roman Empire and authoring numerous epistles that form a significant portion of the New Testament. His teachings and writings have been instrumental in shaping Christian theology and doctrine.

Conclusion

Paul's commissioning by Jesus is a testament to the transformative power of divine grace and the sovereignty of God's plan. From a persecutor of the church to a pillar of the faith, Paul's life and ministry exemplify the redemptive work of Christ and the calling to proclaim the Gospel to all nations.