Acts 9: The Transformative Conversion of Saul, Healing, and Resurrection

Executive Summary ✨

Acts 9 recounts a pivotal moment in Christian history: the dramatic conversion of Saul, the zealous persecutor, into Paul, the apostle to the Gentiles. This chapter details his encounter with the risen Christ on the road to Damascus, his subsequent blindness and healing through Ananias, and his immediate proclamation of Jesus as the Son of God. The narrative then shifts to Peter’s ministry, highlighting his healing of Aeneas in Lydda and the miraculous raising of Tabitha (Dorcas) in Joppa. These events serve as powerful testimonies to the transformative power of Christ and the continued spread of the Gospel through the apostles, demonstrating God’s unwavering love and compassion for humanity.

This chapter underscores the profound implications of divine grace, the power of repentance, and the unwavering commitment required to follow Christ. The conversion of Saul highlights the limitless reach of God’s mercy, while the miracles performed by Peter reinforce the apostles’ divinely ordained authority and the tangible blessings of faith.

Introduction 📖

Acts 9 marks a watershed moment in the early Church, showcasing not only the personal transformation of one of Christianity’s most influential figures but also the continued demonstration of God’s power through His chosen vessels. The dramatic conversion of Saul embodies the boundless nature of divine grace, turning an enemy into a champion of the faith. Concurrently, Peter’s acts of healing and resurrection affirm the apostles’ authority and the tangible impact of the Gospel message. This chapter provides profound insights into the nature of faith, repentance, and the unwavering commitment required to follow Christ. These events offer invaluable lessons for believers today, inspiring us to embrace God’s transformative power and to actively participate in His mission of redemption.

Commentary Sections

Acts 9:1-2 – Saul’s Zeal in Persecution

Acts 9:1-2 (KJV): And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest, And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem.

Acts 9:1-2 (NKJV): Then Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest and asked letters from him to the synagogues of Damascus, so that if he found any who were of the Way, whether men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem.

Saul’s initial portrayal is one of intense, almost violent, zeal against the early Christians. The phrase “breathing out threatenings and slaughter” paints a vivid picture of his relentless pursuit. This underscores the depth of his conviction that Christianity was a dangerous heresy. Damascus, an ancient city with a significant Jewish population, became his target. The “letters” from the high priest provided him with the authority to arrest believers and bring them back to Jerusalem for trial and punishment. This shows the established religious authority viewed the early church as a significant threat. It also shows the geographical expansion of the church beyond Jerusalem.

Patristic Insight: St. Augustine notes the paradox in Saul’s zeal: “Videamus quomodo Saulus, zelo quidem habens Dei, sed non secundum scientiam, persecutor erat Ecclesiae” (“Let us see how Saul, having zeal for God, but not according to knowledge, was a persecutor of the Church.”) (Augustine, *Exposition on Psalm 36*, Sermon 1.16). This highlights the importance of aligning one’s zeal with true knowledge of God.

Spiritual Application: How often do we find ourselves passionately advocating for something, only to realize later that our zeal was misdirected or even harmful? This verse serves as a warning against blind faith and the dangers of acting without understanding and discernment. Let us always seek to temper our enthusiasm with wisdom and compassion, guided by the Holy Spirit.

Acts 9:3-6 – The Encounter on the Road to Damascus

Acts 9:3-6 (KJV): And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven: And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.

Acts 9:3-6 (NKJV): As he journeyed he came near Damascus, and suddenly a light shone around him from heaven. Then he fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?” And he said, “Who are You, Lord?” Then the Lord said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for you to kick against the goad.” So he, trembling and astonished, said, “Lord, what do You want me to do?” Then the Lord said to him, “Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”

The dramatic encounter on the road to Damascus is the central turning point in Saul’s life. The sudden and overwhelming light from heaven signifies the divine intervention. Falling to the earth is a symbolic act of submission before the divine power. The voice asking “Why are you persecuting Me?” reveals the intimate connection between Christ and His followers; persecuting Christians is equated with persecuting Christ Himself. The phrase “kick against the goad” is a proverb illustrating the futility of resisting God’s will. Saul’s trembling and astonishment demonstrate his immediate recognition of his sin and the overwhelming presence of God. His question, “Lord, what do you want me to do?” marks the beginning of his surrender and obedience to Christ.

Patristic Insight: St. John Chrysostom observes: “Τίς γὰρ ἂν ἐτόλμησε τούτο λέγειν, ἐὰν μὴ αὐτὸς ὁ Χριστὸς ἐβόα;” (“For who would dare to say this, if Christ Himself did not cry out?”) (John Chrysostom, *Homilies on Acts*, 21.1). This underscores the undeniable reality of Christ’s direct intervention in Saul’s life.

Spiritual Application: This passage teaches us that God can break through even the most hardened hearts and use them for His glory. Saul’s encounter reminds us that conversion is not merely a change of mind but a radical transformation of the entire being, brought about by the grace of God. Are we open to allowing God to challenge our preconceived notions and redirect our paths? Do we listen for His voice in our lives, even when it contradicts our own desires or plans?

Acts 9:7-9 – Saul’s Blindness and Dependence

Acts 9:7-9 (KJV): And the men which journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man. And Saul arose from the earth; and when his eyes were opened, he saw no man: but they led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus. And he was three days without sight, and neither did eat nor drink.

Acts 9:7-9 (NKJV): And the men who journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice but seeing no one. Then Saul arose from the ground, and when his eyes were opened he saw no one. But they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. And he was three days without sight, and neither ate nor drank.

The companions’ experience highlights the limited nature of their perception; they heard the voice but did not understand its full significance, and they did not see the Lord. Saul’s blindness is a symbolic representation of his spiritual blindness prior to his conversion. His dependence on others to lead him into Damascus underscores his vulnerability and the necessity of community in the Christian life. The three days of fasting and prayer signify a period of intense reflection and spiritual preparation for his new calling. It is a time of inner transformation and repentance.

Spiritual Application: Saul’s temporary blindness serves as a reminder that we are all, at times, spiritually blind. We need God to open our eyes to see the truth and to understand His will for our lives. The period of fasting and prayer emphasizes the importance of spiritual discipline in seeking God’s guidance and preparing ourselves for His service. Are we willing to humble ourselves and acknowledge our dependence on God and others?

Acts 9:10-16 – Ananias’ Reluctance and Obedience

Acts 9:10-16 (KJV): And there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias; and to him said the Lord in a vision, Ananias. And he said, Behold, I am here, Lord. And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and inquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth, And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight. Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem: And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on thy name. But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name’s sake.

Acts 9:10-16 (NKJV): Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias; and to him the Lord said in a vision, “Ananias.” And he said, “Here I am, Lord.” So the Lord said to him, “Arise and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for one called Saul of Tarsus; for behold, he is praying. And in a vision he has seen a man named Ananias coming in and putting his hand on him, so that he might receive his sight.” Then Ananias answered, “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much harm he has done to Your saints in Jerusalem; and here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on Your name.” But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name’s sake.”

Ananias’ initial hesitation reveals the fear and skepticism of the early Christians towards Saul. His objection is based on the well-known reputation of Saul as a persecutor. However, the Lord reassures him, revealing that Saul is now a “chosen vessel” destined to preach the Gospel to the Gentiles, kings, and the people of Israel. This demonstrates God’s sovereign plan and His ability to use unexpected individuals for His purposes. The Lord also foretells the suffering that Saul will endure for Christ’s sake, highlighting the cost of discipleship.

Patristic Insight: St. Irenaeus reflects on the divine election of Paul: “Paulus enim, qui prius persecutor erat, factus est vas electionis Dei, qui praedicavit Christum” (“For Paul, who was formerly a persecutor, became a vessel of God’s election, who preached Christ.”) (Irenaeus, *Against Heresies*, 3.13.3). This emphasizes the transformative power of God’s grace.

Spiritual Application: This passage teaches us the importance of obedience to God’s call, even when it seems difficult or risky. Ananias’ example encourages us to overcome our fears and prejudices and to trust in God’s plan. Are we willing to set aside our own reservations and embrace the individuals that God calls us to serve, even if they are unexpected or even former enemies?

Acts 9:17-19 – Ananias Heals Saul

Acts 9:17-19 (KJV): And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized. And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus.

Acts 9:17-19 (NKJV): And Ananias went his way and entered the house; and laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you came, has sent me that you may receive your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” Immediately there fell from his eyes something like scales, and he received his sight at once. And he arose and was baptized. So when he had received food, he was strengthened. Then Saul spent some days with the disciples at Damascus.

Ananias’ act of obedience and acceptance of Saul as a brother in Christ is remarkable. The laying on of hands and the invocation of Jesus’ name demonstrate the power of prayer and the authority given to believers. The scales falling from Saul’s eyes symbolize the removal of his spiritual blindness, both literally and figuratively. His immediate baptism signifies his commitment to Christ and his entry into the Christian community. Receiving food and being strengthened highlights the importance of physical nourishment and fellowship with other believers in the process of spiritual renewal.

Spiritual Application: This passage emphasizes the power of forgiveness, reconciliation, and acceptance within the Christian community. Ananias’ willingness to embrace Saul, despite his past, serves as an example for us to extend grace and compassion to others. Are we willing to reach out to those who have wronged us or who are different from us, offering them the love and acceptance of Christ? Are we actively seeking ways to minister to others and to help them experience the healing and transforming power of God?

Acts 9:20-22 – Saul Preaches Christ

Acts 9:20-22 (KJV): And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God. But all that heard him were amazed, and said; Is not this he that destroyed them which called on this name in Jerusalem, and came hither for that intent, that he might bring them bound unto the chief priests? But Saul increased the more in strength, and confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is very Christ.

Acts 9:20-22 (NKJV): Immediately he preached the Christ in the synagogues, that He is the Son of God. Then all who heard were amazed and said, “Is this not he who destroyed those who called on this name in Jerusalem, and has come here for that purpose, so that he might bring them bound to the chief priests?” But Saul increased all the more in strength, and confounded the Jews who dwelt in Damascus, proving that this Jesus is the Christ.

Saul’s immediate and bold proclamation of Jesus as the Son of God is a testament to the radical transformation he had undergone. His preaching in the synagogues, where he previously sought to persecute believers, demonstrates the completeness of his conversion. The amazement and skepticism of the listeners highlight the seemingly impossible nature of his transformation. However, Saul’s unwavering conviction and his ability to “confound” the Jews, proving that Jesus is the Christ, demonstrate the power of the Holy Spirit working through him.

Spiritual Application: Saul’s example challenges us to be bold and unashamed in sharing our faith with others. Despite the potential for opposition or disbelief, we are called to proclaim the Gospel message with clarity and conviction. Are we willing to step out of our comfort zones and share our testimony with those around us? Do we rely on the Holy Spirit to empower us and to equip us with the words to speak?

Acts 9:23-25 – Escape from Damascus

Acts 9:23-25 (KJV): And after that many days were fulfilled, the Jews took counsel to kill him: But their laying await was known of Saul. And they watched the gates day and night to kill him. Then the disciples took him by night, and let him down by the wall in a basket.

Acts 9:23-25 (NKJV): Now after many days were past, the Jews plotted to kill him. But their plot became known to Saul. And they watched the gates day and night, to kill him. Then the disciples took him by night and let him down through the wall in a large basket.

The plot to kill Saul reveals the growing opposition he faced as a result of his preaching. The disciples’ act of helping him escape in a basket demonstrates their courage and their commitment to protecting him. This event foreshadows the many trials and persecutions that Saul (later Paul) would face throughout his ministry. It also shows the importance of Christian community and the mutual support that believers provide one another in times of difficulty.

Spiritual Application: This passage reminds us that following Christ often involves facing opposition and persecution. However, we are not alone in our struggles. God provides us with the support and encouragement of other believers to help us persevere through difficult times. Are we actively participating in a Christian community where we can receive and offer support? Are we willing to risk our own safety to protect and defend our brothers and sisters in Christ?

Acts 9:26-30 – Saul’s Acceptance in Jerusalem

Acts 9:26-30 (KJV): And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple. But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus. And he was with them coming in and going out at Jerusalem. And he spake boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus, and disputed against the Grecians: but they went about to slay him. Which when the brethren knew, they brought him down to Caesarea, and sent him forth to Tarsus.

Acts 9:26-30 (NKJV): And when Saul had come to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples; but they were all afraid of him, and did not believe that he was a disciple. But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. And he declared to them how he had seen the Lord on the road, and that He had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus. So he was with them at Jerusalem, coming in and going out. And he spoke boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus and disputed against the Hellenists, but they attempted to kill him. When the brethren found out, they brought him down to Caesarea and sent him out to Tarsus.

The disciples’ initial distrust of Saul highlights the difficulty of overcoming past reputations. Barnabas plays a crucial role in mediating between Saul and the apostles, vouching for the authenticity of his conversion and his ministry in Damascus. This demonstrates the importance of mentorship and advocacy in the Christian community. Saul’s continued boldness in preaching and disputing against the Hellenists leads to further attempts on his life. The brethren’s decision to send him to Caesarea and then to Tarsus reflects their wisdom and their desire to protect him while also allowing him to continue his ministry in a safer environment. Tarsus, as Saul’s hometown, provided a familiar, yet removed, location.

Spiritual Application: This passage underscores the importance of building trust and fostering reconciliation within the Christian community. Barnabas’ example teaches us to be advocates for those who are marginalized or misunderstood. Are we willing to extend grace and offer opportunities for redemption to those who have made mistakes in the past? Do we value the wisdom and guidance of experienced believers in navigating difficult situations?

Acts 9:31 – The Church’s Peace

Acts 9:31 (KJV): Then had the churches rest throughout all Judaea and Galilee and Samaria, and were edified; and walking in the fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost, were multiplied.

Acts 9:31 (NKJV): Then the churches throughout all Judea, Galilee, and Samaria had peace and were edified. And walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, they were multiplied.

This verse provides a summary of the state of the Church following Saul’s conversion and departure. The Church experienced a period of peace and growth throughout Judea, Galilee, and Samaria. The phrase “walking in the fear of the Lord” signifies a deep reverence and obedience to God. The comfort of the Holy Spirit refers to the sense of assurance, encouragement, and guidance that believers received. The Church’s multiplication indicates the continued spread of the Gospel and the increasing number of disciples.

Spiritual Application: This verse reminds us that peace and growth are blessings that God bestows upon His Church. When we live in obedience to God’s word and rely on the comfort of the Holy Spirit, we create an environment where the Church can thrive and fulfill its mission. Are we actively contributing to the peace and unity of the Church? Do we seek to cultivate a spirit of reverence and obedience to God in our lives?

Acts 9:32-35 – Peter Heals Aeneas

Acts 9:32-35 (KJV): And it came to pass, as Peter passed throughout all quarters, he came down also to the saints which dwelt at Lydda. And there he found a certain man named Aeneas, which had kept his bed eight years, and was sick of the palsy. And Peter said unto him, Aeneas, Jesus Christ maketh thee whole: arise, and make thy bed. And he arose immediately. And all that dwelt at Lydda and Saron saw him, and turned to the Lord.

Acts 9:32-35 (NKJV): Then it came to pass, as Peter went through all parts of the country, that he also came down to the saints who dwelt in Lydda. There he found a certain man named Aeneas, who had been bedridden eight years, who was paralyzed. And Peter said to him, “Aeneas, Jesus the Christ heals you. Arise and make your bed.” Then he arose immediately. So all who dwelt at Lydda and Saron saw him and turned to the Lord.

Peter’s travels throughout the region demonstrate the apostles’ commitment to spreading the Gospel and ministering to the needs of believers. The healing of Aeneas, who had been paralyzed for eight years, is a powerful demonstration of God’s healing power through the apostles. Peter’s declaration, “Jesus Christ maketh thee whole,” emphasizes that the healing is not due to his own power but to the power of Christ. The immediate healing and Aeneas’ obedience to “arise and make thy bed” demonstrate the completeness of his restoration. The result of the healing is that many people in Lydda and Saron turned to the Lord.

Spiritual Application: This passage reminds us that God is still in the business of healing today. While not every illness is miraculously cured, we can trust in God’s power to bring healing and restoration to our lives, both physically and spiritually. Are we praying for those who are sick or suffering? Are we open to the possibility that God may use us as instruments of healing in their lives? Lydda, known today as Lod, was a strategically important town on the coastal plain, reflecting the expansion of the early church’s reach.

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Acts 9:36-43 – Peter Raises Tabitha (Dorcas)

Acts 9:36-43 (KJV): Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did. And it came to pass in those days, that she was sick, and died: whom when they had washed, they laid her in an upper chamber. And forasmuch as Lydda was nigh to Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent unto him two men, desiring him that he would not delay to come to them. Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them. But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning him to the body said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up. And he gave her his hand, and lifted her up, and when he had called the saints and widows, presented her alive. And it was known throughout all Joppa; and many believed in the Lord. And it came to pass, that he tarried many days in Joppa with one Simon a tanner.

Acts 9:36-43 (NKJV): At Joppa there was a certain disciple named Tabitha, which is translated Dorcas. This woman was full of good works and charitable deeds which she did. But it happened in those days that she became sick and died. When they had washed her, they laid her in an upper room. And since Lydda was near Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent two men to him, imploring him not to delay in coming to them. Then Peter arose and went with them. When he had come, they brought him to the upper room, and all the widows stood by him weeping, showing the tunics and garments which Dorcas had made while she was with them. But Peter put them all out, and knelt down and prayed. And turning to the body he said, “Tabitha, arise.” And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up. Then he gave her his hand and lifted her up; and when he had called the saints and widows, he presented her alive. And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed on the Lord. So it was that he stayed many days in Joppa with Simon, a tanner.

The raising of Tabitha (Dorcas) from the dead is another powerful demonstration of God’s power through Peter. Tabitha’s reputation for good works and charitable deeds highlights the importance of practical expressions of faith. The widows’ weeping and showing the garments she made emphasizes her compassion and service to the poor. Peter’s act of sending everyone out and praying before raising Tabitha emphasizes the importance of prayer and dependence on God’s power. The result of this miracle is that many people in Joppa believed in the Lord. Peter’s stay in Joppa with Simon the tanner is significant because tanners were considered ritually unclean, highlighting the breaking down of social barriers in the early Church and the inclusiveness of the Gospel.

Spiritual Application: This passage teaches us that our faith should be expressed through good works and acts of service to others. Tabitha’s example inspires us to use our gifts and talents to bless those in need. We are also reminded of the power of prayer and the importance of trusting in God’s ability to do the impossible. Are we actively seeking ways to serve others in our community? Do we rely on prayer to guide us and to empower us to minister to the needs of those around us?

Subtopic Sections

The Conversion of Saul holds immense significance in Christian theology and practice. Here are key reflections:

• 💡 **Radical Transformation:** It demonstrates that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace and that even the most ardent persecutors can become devoted followers.
• 🕊️ **Divine Initiative:** God took the initiative to confront Saul, showing that salvation is ultimately a gift from God, not something earned through human effort.
• 📖 **Suffering for Christ:** It highlights the cost of discipleship, as Saul (Paul) would endure significant suffering for his faith.
• 🌍 **Apostle to the Gentiles:** It marks the beginning of Paul’s ministry as the apostle to the Gentiles, expanding the reach of the Gospel beyond the Jewish community.
• 🤝 **Reconciliation:** Ananias’ willingness to embrace Saul demonstrates the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation within the Christian community.
• ✨ **Power of the Holy Spirit:** It underscores the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in changing lives and equipping believers for ministry.

FAQ ❓

Here are some frequently asked questions about Acts 9:

• Q: Why was Saul going to Damascus?
  A: Saul was traveling to Damascus with letters from the high priest, authorizing him to arrest any Christians he found there and bring them back to Jerusalem for trial and punishment.
• Q: What is the significance of Saul’s blindness?
  A: Saul’s blindness was both a physical and spiritual condition, representing his lack of understanding of who Jesus truly was. It symbolized his need for spiritual enlightenment and his dependence on God’s grace.
• Q: Who was Ananias, and why was he hesitant to help Saul?
  A: Ananias was a disciple in Damascus. He was hesitant to help Saul because he knew of Saul’s reputation as a persecutor of Christians and feared for his own safety.
• Q: What can we learn from Tabitha’s example?
  A: Tabitha’s example teaches us the importance of expressing our faith through good works and acts of service to others, particularly those in need. Her life demonstrates that practical expressions of compassion and generosity are integral to the Christian faith.

Conclusion ✨

Acts 9 offers a compelling narrative of divine intervention, personal transformation, and the tangible power of faith. The conversion of Saul stands as a testament to the boundless reach of God’s grace, demonstrating that no one is beyond redemption. Peter’s miracles in Lydda and Joppa underscore the apostles’ divinely ordained authority and the tangible blessings of faith in Christ. This chapter serves as a timeless reminder that God can transform even the most ardent adversaries into fervent advocates, and that He continues to work through His followers to heal the broken and spread the Gospel to the world. Let us embrace the lessons of Acts 9, allowing God to challenge our preconceived notions, redirect our paths, and empower us to serve Him faithfully.

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Acts 9 narrates Saul’s dramatic conversion, Peter’s healing of Aeneas, and the raising of Tabitha. This chapter showcases God’s transformative power.