Paul was under Roman guard, but allowed to address the crowd who had falsely accused him, of desecrating the temple in Jerusalem. Having told them how he encountered Jesus on the road to Damascus, and was blinded by a brilliant light, Paul explained what happened next. He was led by the hand into the city (Acts 9:8) and prayed to God for mercy and help (Acts 9:11).

Ananias was both a believer in Jesus and a devout Jew. Initially Ananias resisted the Lord's command to visit Paul, because he was afraid of him (Acts 9:13-14). But finally he was obedient and he delivered the message Jesus gave him (Acts 9:15-17). Ananias said that Jesus who had spoken to Paul was God's Righteous Servant (Isaiah 53:11). Calling Paul his brother, he laid his hands on Paul's eyes (Acts 9:12), commanding him to see again. And he did.

Next, Paul was commanded to be baptised. It was to be a physical demonstration of his repentance and identification with Jesus (Romans 6:3-4). Ananias insisted that this next step should be completed without delay in obedience to Christ's command (Matthew 28:19).

After encountering the living Lord Jesus Christ, things are never the same again. We hear His Word, get a new direction and purpose in life, and we are commanded to be baptised. Humble obedience is an essential mark of faith in Jesus. If we trust Him, we will do what He says. It should be a part of our testimony, how baptism sealed the salvation we have received. If you have trusted in Jesus and not been baptised, what are you waiting for? The command is over you, do not delay. So when you share your testimony, explain how you learnt to be obedient to Jesus: that is real conversion.