Daily EncouragementSample

“Brother Saul” - these two words shine with the radiance of gospel light! Think who Saul was. He was the determined antagonist of the Church, literally “breathing out murderous threats against the Lord’s disciples” (Acts 9:1). “I was once a blasphemer,” he was to testify, “and a persecutor and a violent man” (1 Tim. 1:13). This was the man now addressed as “Brother Saul.” Think who Ananias was. He was “a disciple.” The Lord did not send an archbishop to baptize Saul! Ananias knew Saul’s reputation - “I have heard many reports about this man and all the harm he has done to your saints in Jerusalem” (Acts 9:13). Yet he now called him “Brother Saul.” Think who Jesus is. Then we understand the great change - “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting” (Acts 9:5). Yesterday’s persecutor is today’s brother because the Lord Jesus has met with him. That is the explanation, and it is the only explanation. Paul’s case was unique - “I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life” (1 Tim. 1:16). However, the principle is universal - persecutors may become brothers by the grace of God.