Acts 22

“Then Paul said: “I am a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but brought up in this city. I studied under Gamaliel and was thoroughly trained in the law of our ancestors. I was just as zealous for God as any of you are today” (2-3). Paul explained to the mob who wanted to kill him that he understood their perspective. He, too, had been completely mistaken about God (4), until he personally met Jesus. Paul’s message made it clear that law and heritage couldn’t save them. Their reaction was outrage (22).

“I am Jesus of Nazareth ...” (8). Being “zealous” for our religion won’t save use or bring transformation (3). We need a heart-encounter with the living Jesus.