Some subjects, including faith and works, blur when treated academically, as just esoteric theories. So, let’s turn to practicality. How did Saul, who became Paul, come to Christ? In his conversion, what was the relationship between faith and works?
This conversion story is told by Luke in Acts 9, and by Paul himself in Acts 22 and Acts 26. Saul persecuted Christians. While traveling to Damascus for this purpose, he suddenly saw Jesus in the splendor of His resurrected body (Acts 9:17; 22:14). Jesus identified Himself, saying, “I am Jesus of Nazareth.” Saul recognized this startling truth. He cried out, “What shall I do, Lord?” Saul’s first faith saved him, right? The answer may surprise us. Jesus simply ordered Saul to Damascus, saying, “…there you will be told all that is appointed for you to do” (Acts 22:10). Saul waited in Damascus. He was blind, and deeply moved by his experience. For three days he fasted and prayed (Acts 9:9-11). Such humble, penitent praying— such calling on the name of the Lord—surely saved him, right? Keep an open mind for the answer. Next, the miracles began. God gave Saul a prophetic vision (Acts 9:12). Ananias, the Christian sent by the Lord Jesus, fulfilled that vision by laying hands on Saul and healing his blindness. Such direct blessing by God is evidence of salvation, right? Keep thinking. Ananias, the divinely appointed spokesman, foretold Saul’s work as an eyewitness, and then gave the Lord’s instruction:
And now why do you wait? Rise and be baptized and wash away your sins, calling on His name (Acts 22:16).