I once heard a comparison between the conversion of the Apostle Paul… and the conversion of Darth Vader.
While this analogy obviously has to be taken tongue-in-cheek, I could imagine how this CliffsNotes conversation about Paul’s story might be very effective with someone who isn’t that familiar with the Bible.
“Paul used to be a bad guy? But then he suddenly became a good guy?”
“Yes. Paul encountered Jesus and experienced a change of heart.”
“Kind of like when Luke Skywalker told Darth Vader, ‘Let go of your hate,’ and Vader unexpectedly turned against the dark side?” “Well… I guess you could… kind of…”
Sure, Luke was lucky to have such a powerful character switch sides in the Star Wars saga. But even that world-famous movie scene doesn’t hold a candle to the inspiring, true story of Paul’s conversion.
God was well aware of Paul’s fiery determination to persecute Jesus’ followers. But He was also aware of how Paul could be the ultimate ally to spread the Good News throughout the Roman Empire. Being both a Jew and Roman citizen, Paul could skillfully preach to both audiences. His knowledge of Jewish law allowed him to explain to other Jews exactly how Jesus Christ fulfilled Old Testament prophecy.
Thankfully, conversion stories are alive and well 2,000 years later – even with criminals. Shawn Green was aggressive, driven, and creative. Unfortunately, he was focused on selling drugs and moving up the gang ranks since the age of 13. He inevitably ended up behind bars.
Green remembers being furious with God when, one night, he noticed light from the prison door shining on a Bible. He opened it and randomly touched a page. His finger was on 2 Corinthians 7:9-10. “It said, I did not put you in this situation to make you sad, but I put you in this situation to turn you from your sins,” Green recalled, “and I just could breathe, and just got on my knees and started crying because I felt the love of God.”
He eventually started a ministry called “Christ Hop.” He’s now a preacher, a Christian clothing designer, and a Gospel rapper. “I want (to keep) that same intensity,” he said, “… but with Jesus in it.” As with Paul, God knew how talented Green was.
An archenemy of the Disciples ended up writing much of the New Testament. A gang member became a role model. What once seemed impossible… became possible through the grace of God. So how could any of us doubt God’s ability to use our own talents?
We can all be used as a force for good.
“You said ‘force’.”
“Well… I guess Star Wars did have a happy ending…”
Ed Doney, Staff Writer
