Definition: But Saul increased the more in strength, and confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is very Christ.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Acts 9:22. It’s a really important part of understanding how Jesus started to transform someone who was once a persecutor. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says that after seeing Jesus, Saul – a very prominent and influential leader of the Jewish people – became stronger than ever before and started causing trouble. Let’s unpack it further: “But Saul increased in strength…” This means Saul was becoming more powerful, perhaps even more confident or influential. He wasn't just being a little bit better; he was growing in his abilities. "...and confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus.” This is the key part. “Damascus” was a city known for being a center of Jewish community and a place where Saul had been living as a persecutor of Christians – someone who hated and tried to stop them from spreading their faith. "Confounded" means he made the people in that city very confused, worried, and even frightened. “Proving that this is very Christ.” This is the most important part. The Bible says that seeing Jesus caused Saul to realize that Jesus was indeed the Messiah – the promised King of Israel! He understood that Jesus was the one who could redeem people from their sins and offer them a new life. So, what's happening? Saul, who had been actively working against Christians, suddenly became so convinced of Jesus’ identity that he started to experience a profound shift in his perspective. He began to see him as the solution to all the problems he’d been trying to solve – essentially, he realized Jesus was the one who could bring about change and forgiveness. In short: Saul's belief in Jesus changed him from being a persecutor into someone who recognized him as the Messiah! It's a really significant moment because it shows that faith can transform even those who have been determined to oppose it. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context about Saul’s situation before Jesus came into his life? Discuss what this passage tells us about the power of faith and redemption?