There are a couple of ways to view the term unconscious. The most obvious refers to those who are knocked out, in a comatose state. Another relates to those who appear to be senseless without a conscience. The latter can seem to be heartless, unmoved by life altering events.
And Saul approved of their killing Stephen. On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria, Acts 8:1.
A well known Pharisee of the first century could be described as unconscious. After overseeing the execution of the apostle Stephen, Saul goes on a mission to snuff out Christianity within the Jewish community. During this pursuit, Saul doesn’t seem phased by the death of Christians, like he get’s his jollies out of persecuting the faith community.
But Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off both men and women and put them in prison, Acts 8:3.
Sometimes the events of every day life can harden hearts. While some may turn to depression, others can be filled by hatred. In fact, this may explain Saul’s words in his letter to the church of Ephesus. “In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold, Ephesians 4:26-27. If you want to avoid causing anger to poison your heart, soul and mind, take Saul’s advice. Just let it go or you too may become unconscious.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 