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Authors: Gerard and Bernie Robinson, from Charis in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

In the book of Acts it says, “And Saul approved of their killing [Stephen]. On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. Godly men buried Stephen and mourned deeply for him. But Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off both men and women and put them in prison.” (Acts 8:1-3)

“Amazing grace how sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me. I once was lost but now I’m found, was blind but now I see.”

This famous 18th Century hymn was written by John Newton, the one-time slave trader who experienced conversion to Christ and became a fierce slavery abolitionist. Both he and Saul illustrate perfectly the amazing love of our God, who seeks out the undeserving sinner and pours out his mercy, forgiveness, and grace.

Saul of Tarsus, later known as Paul, was a Pharisee zealously dedicated to the eradication of Christianity. Present at the death of Stephen, the first Christian martyr, he expressed his approval by holding the cloaks of those who actually did the stoning. The word “ravaging” is used in the passage to describe his treatment of Christians. This word denotes brutal cruelty and conjures up the imagery of a wild animal savagely attacking its prey.

Surely such a person as Saul does not deserve God’s forgiveness and grace? In 1 Timothy 1:15-16 Paul answers like this: “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the worst. But for that very reason 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 in him and receive eternal life.” As each of us personally experience, God’s grace is free and unmerited. So let’s not be too quick to “write off” some people as having no interest in, or no chance of coming to the Lord. Let’s step out in faith today and pray for somebody we know.

“Amazing grace how sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me. I once was lost but now I’m found, was blind but now I see.”

Scripture quotations from The Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®, Copyright © 1973 1978 1984 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.