How the Lord Taught Paul
“Many have the idea that they are responsible to Christ alone for their light and experience, independent of his acknowledged followers in the world. But this is condemned by Jesus in his teachings, and in the examples, the facts, which he has given for our instruction. Here was Paul, one whom Christ was to fit for a most important work, one who was to a chosen vessel unto him, brought directly into the presence of Christ; yet he does not teach him the lessons of truth. He arrests his course and convicts him; and when he asks, ‘What wilt thou have me to do?’ the Saviour does not tell him directly, but places him in connection with with his church. They will tell thee what thou must do. Jesus is the sinner’s friend. His heart is ever open, ever touched with human woe; he has all power, both in heaven and upon earth; but he respects the means which he has ordained for the enlightenment and salvation of men. He directs Saul to the church, thus acknowledging the power that he has invested in it as a channel of light to the world. It is Christ’s organized body upon the earth, and respect is required to be paid to his ordinances. In the case of Saul, Ananias represents Christ, and he also represents Christ’s ministers upon the earth who are appointed to act in Christ’s stead.”-Ibid., 433.COOD 52.1