Bible character overview - Ananias
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Time to read 3 min
Introduction:
Welcome to an insightful character overview of Ananias. Here you'll learn about who Ananias was, what he did, and his strengths and weaknesses. Also, we have provided questions related to the story of Ananias to provoke thought. They can also be used for personal/small-group studies.
Who was Ananias from the Bible?
Key facts
- When: roughly around 15 B.C - 70 A.D
- Where: Damascus
- Name meaning: 'Gift of the Lord' or 'God was gracious'
Glimpse: Ananias is not mentioned at all in scripture apart from one story. But this story shows us why God looks for those who will obey his command, even when it seems like the worst option possible. Ananias did just that and his small step of obedience indirectly affected the entire early church through a man named Paul.
Call from God
Ananias of Damascus is mentioned only once in Scripture (Acts 9:10), yet his story is very impactful. Ananias was a disciple of God and a devout man of faith. One day, God spoke to Ananias, saying, “Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul.”
Ananias had his doubts because Saul, who would soon be named Paul, was a very evil man who had dedicated his life to persecuting followers of Jesus. He says in Acts 9:13-14, “I have heard many reports about this man and all the harm he has done to your holy people in Jerusalem. And he has come here with authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on your name.”
Questions
→ Do you find it hard to know what God is saying? Does scripture help to guide you?
→ What does this section tell you about God's nature?
" In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord called to him in a vision, “Ananias!” “Yes, Lord,” he answered."
Paul healed
However, the Lord spoke to Ananias, saying, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel. I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.” Being an obedient man, Ananias went. Upon entering the house of Judas, Ananias found a weakened and fearful Saul. He prayed for Saul (later called Paul), and his strength was renewed and his eyes healed. Saul then went on to become one of the most influential figures in the faith.
Questions
→ Why is it so important to always trust and obey God?
→ Have you ever had to trust and obey God with something?
" Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized, ''
Strengths:
- Obedience: Although he was cautious at first, Ananias obeyed the word of the Lord
- Faith: Ananias declared what God had said in faith and saw miraculous healing.
Weaknesses:
- N/A
Conclusion
Ananias's story is a prime example of simple obedience. We never know how God will use a situation until we obey. Paul was a major component in the early church going on to write 13 books of the Bible and impacting the world we know today. Let's remind ourselves of the power of simple obedience as we continue in our walk of faith.
''For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life''
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