The Progress of the Kingdom - The Conversion of Saul

Luke's account of the conversion of the Ethiopian eunuch provides his point of transition and prelude to the forthcoming Gentile mission. As a foreigner and eunuch, the Ethiopian's contribution to Luke's narrative resides in his embodiment of the Gentile world in its alienation from God. This man's conversion - so precisely orchestrated by the Spirit - served as His testimony that the time of the Gentile ingathering promised by the prophets was now at hand (Isaiah 56:1-8). Having laid that foundation, Luke turned his attention back to Saul. The Gentile mission was about to begin and the next step toward it was Jesus' preparation of His chosen instrument. The great enemy of His Church was about to become His devoted servant and witness.