Acts chapter 22

vs 1

This marks out Paul's persecutors as mainly men. I am guessing women weren't allowed to go around rioting. Even if they were, perhaps it was disrespectful to address them directly.

"Brothers and Fathers" is an interesting term of address. It assumes either kids or at least siblings. Which is a very interesting thing about the culture.

vs 2

So, at least his little linguistic trick has got their attention.

vs 3

We are about to learn a lot about Paul in this section.

So even though he was born outside Jerusalem, he grew up there, I'm guessing during his rabbinical training. His mentor's name is important - otherwise why record it? And we are fully aware of his zeal from Luke's previous description of his life the first time. Remember, repetition is the key to emphasis in ancient texts.

vs 4

He openly admits that he has done this, although by now it is probably some years ago that he was a frontrunner in the persecution of the Way.

vs 5

Paul backs up his words with evidence from the high-ups, and shows just how determined he was to rid the world of Christians - he was even prepared to travel outside of Jerusalem and bring them back for 'justice'.

vs 6

Lightning? Or just a bright heavenly light? Who can say.

vs 7

That's right, his name is also Saul.

It has just struck me that Paul's focus on the unity of Christ with believers is fundamental to his conversion. Jesus doesn't ask "Why do you persecute my followers?" but "Why do you persecute me?"

vs 8

Uh oh. At about this time, Paul is boned.

vs 9

This is one of the few first-hand eye-witness accounts of some spiritual happening to someone in the Bible which also describes what others around him could or could not see. Imagine if you got hit by the lightning (or whatever) of God - all your friends might see you get hit, but they don't hear the voices. So easy to think you're crazy.

vs 10

Now we know from the third recording of this story (which comes later) that there is more that Jesus says to Paul. However, look at what Jesus replies to Paul here - you will be told what you are to do once you hit Damascus. That is, It is entirely possible that the majority of Paul's understanding of Jesus, Christianity and his own mission came not directly from Jesus on the Damascus road, but afterwards in Damascus through mentoring and prayer, just like the rest of us.