Paul's future as a senior, and leading member of The Sanhedrin was never in doubt for he was determined to break the expanding influence of The Nazarenes growing in popularity following the death and alleged resurrection of their crucified leader.
Paul had understood that Jesus of Nazareth and his band of loyal followers had become more dangerous after Jesus' death there being an awareness that the Mosaic Laws were being challenged by the words of a dead man who spoke of loving ones neighbour and of loving, and forgiving ones enemies.
Paul was travelling to the city of Damascus to apprehend Nazarenes accused of spreading their heretical beliefs among the Jewish community, when he was confronted with an experience beyond his capacity to fathom despite his reputation as a brilliant thinker and highly educated teacher never short on words when speaking to the simple Jew hungry to hear that practise of the Mosaic Laws guaranteed them God's friendship and assistance.
http://www.usccb.org/bible/acts/9
Paul's life was turned upside, down when after his sight was restored he faced a new reality, that trust in God is never the result of blind obedience to laws, but of following the call of The Saviour, to do as He asks.
The simple people learn from our experiences that the divine mystery does not require us to become intellectual wonder kids to be able to enter into a loving relationship with Him.
Matthew 16:24
Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.
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