Consider the Goads

Consider the Goads

Acts 26:14

It is the Holy Spirit who convicts men of sin. Nevertheless the Spirit uses various means to goad the conscience of man.

Some contend that the conversion of Saul was an instantaneous act of God without preliminary preparation. Others believe that God had been dealing with him for some time, especially during the desert journey from Jerusalem to Damascus. The isolation of the desert was conducive to reflection. And now came this blinding light, this voice from heaven, this searching question from Jesus of Nazareth. This was but the climax of what had been surging through the soul of a man who was honest even though mistaken.

Saul knew the Law. He also knew it was inadequate. It is possible that Saul had some time seen Jesus when He was on earth. He could not forget what he saw and heard. It is almost certain that he had heard the advice of Gamaliel when he said to the council, "Take heed to yourselves what ye intend to do as touching these men.... for if... this work.., be of God, ye cannot overthrow it" (5:35, 38-39). Saul must have reasoned, If Gamaliel is right, I am wrong. Saul had seen the Christians suffer shame for Jesus' name. At least he had seen Stephen die while he consented to his death. That radiant face and that prayer were impossible to forget. These goads helped bring to a climax the work of God's Spirit, and the raging enemy of Christ and the Christians surrendered, saying, "Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?" (9:6).