Acts 9:1-31 Reading Notes
In Acts 1:8, the Risen King says: “…you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
No backup plan. No retreat. Just ordinary people, empowered by the Spirit, sent with good news. This isn’t just their story. It’s ours. The Ascended Jesus is still at work, by his Spirit, through his people, in his world.
These short reading notes are designed to accompany our BURN YOUR BOATS teaching series in the Book of Acts.
Follow these reading notes on the Bible app:
📱 https://www.bible.com/organizations/6b1be468-0a65-41fb-bbbc-703b72ffb293
Full Sermon:
🎧 http://christrefuge.co/sermons
📺 https://www.youtube.com/@WordSpreadsFast
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Day 1: Acts 7:54–8:3
Stephen is killed for his witness, and Saul approves. He ravages the church, dragging men and women to prison. He looks like an impossible case—too hardened, too hostile, too far gone.
Pray for someone in your life who feels beyond God’s grace.
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Day 2: Acts 9:1–9
Still “breathing threats and murder,” Saul heads for Damascus. But the risen Jesus confronts him: “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.” To strike Christ’s people is to strike Christ. Blinded and humbled, Saul is led by the hand.
Thank Jesus that He died, rose, and reigns to save even the most unlikely.
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Day 3: Acts 9:10–25
Ananias obeys God’s call to visit Saul. His first words? “Brother Saul.” The enemy is welcomed as family. Saul’s sight is restored, he is baptised, and he immediately begins to preach Jesus.
Ask God to make our church a place of refuge, security, and hope.
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Day 4: Acts 9:26–31
In Jerusalem, the disciples fear Saul, but Barnabas steps in. Soon, Saul preaches boldly, even as plots rise against him. The persecutor has become the persecuted. Yet the church grows in peace, strength, and the Spirit’s comfort.
Pray for courage to follow Jesus and speak His name boldly.
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Day 5: 1 Timothy 1:15–16
Paul reflects: “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost.” His story proves Christ’s perfect patience. If Saul, then anyone. If Saul, then you.
Give thanks that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace.
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VISION PRAYER
Father God, by your grace, enable our church to be a city of refuge within the city of Brisbane. Empower me this week, by your Spirit, to offer one person the refuge, security, and hope found in Christ Jesus. Amen.