0400. Steps That Led to Saul's Conversion–Those Who Were in Christ Before Him

Steps That Led to Saul’s Conversion–Those Who Were in Christ Before Him

"Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen * * who were in Christ before me" (Rom_16:7).

We know nothing of the facts in the case, but the mere mention of these two kinsmen of Saul of Tarsus, and the special mention that they were in Christ before he was, suggests strongly that they had something to do with his conversion.

Certainly the brilliant young kinsman of Andronicus and of Junia, and his peculiar activity against the Church, must have put him heavily upon their hearts. They certainly prayed much, even unto frequent fastings for this wayward, headstrong young man.

Who can value enough the power of the agonizing prayer of loved ones in behalf of their kinsmen? Certainly God hears and answers the prayer of faith.

Illustration: We remember how, years ago, at a revival service, a certain man asked special prayer for his unsaved daughter. Another daughter, who was present, immediately got up and hurried home. When, on the next day, the preacher asked her why she had left, she replied: "I wanted to get home quick and see how May looked when she got saved." And May was saved. Upon reaching home, her parents found her under deepest conviction for her sins.

Autor: R.E. NEIGHBOUR