Paul knew a lot about being “chosen.”

First, he was a Jew. Paul was a member of a nation chosen by God to be in unique relationship with the Creator of the universe.

Second, within this Jewish identity Paul was a Pharisee. Paul was chosen to wield special power and influence among his people because of his vast learning and piety.

Third, in addition to his special religious status Paul also enjoyed unique political status. Paul was a Roman citizen, and that honor accorded him the rights and privileges of the most powerful political entity on earth the Roman Empire.

So it was this considerable experience in chosenness with which Paul started down the Damascus Road. After that encounter with the holy Paul thereafter recognized and embraced the only form of chosenness that mattered. Paul was c…