Divine Dialogue: Discover God's Heart and PurposeSýnishorn

Why Do You Persecute Me?

Saul, a man of power and religious influence, was on his way to Damascus on a mission to imprison followers of Jesus. But on the road, Saul had a life-changing encounter.

A blinding light flashed around Saul, and he fell to the ground. He heard a voice asking, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?” Shocked and fearful, Saul responded, “Who are you, Lord?” Recognizing the divine nature of the voice, Saul took the first step toward transformation.

Jesus replied, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.” This revelation must have been horrifying for Saul, who believed he was doing God’s work by persecuting Christians. Saul responded to the Lord’s question with a question of his own: “Who are you, Lord?” Isn’t it interesting that Saul knew he was speaking with a “Lord,” a divine being, even though he had previously denounced Jesus and all His teachings?

Recognizing the lordship of Jesus is the first step toward a lasting, personal transformation. The Lord answered Saul’s question with a statement: “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.” Jesus, the Son of God, stood in defense of those Saul sought to destroy.

Jesus instructed Saul to go into the city for further instructions. Saul discovered he was blind and was led by his companions into Damascus. For three days, he waited in darkness. God sent Ananias to pray for Saul, restoring his sight and filling him with the Holy Spirit. Saul, now Paul, committed himself to Christ and His purposes.

Did you notice that Saul didn’t answer the original question Jesus posed to him? Jesus had asked, “Why do you persecute me?” That question was never answered; however, that wasn’t the point of Jesus’ asking it. The point was to bring Saul face-to-face with the reality of Christ and His existence. Paul’s encounter with Jesus transformed him from a persecutor to one of the most influential apostles in Church history. He lived a life of uncompromising obedience to his Master.

An authentic dialogue with God opens your spiritual eyes and reveals your God-given destiny. The Lord’s questions are designed to bring you face-to-face with His reality and truth. Lay down your agenda and embrace His plans for your life. Answer His questions with obedience and trust, just as Paul did.

Is God prompting the “why” question in your life?

This plan has been adapted from the book Divine Dialogue: Answer 31 God Questions to Discover His Heart and Purpose. If you enjoyed this plan and would like to continue exploring God’s questions for you, click here to learn more.