Scripture presents Ananias an excellent example in Acts 9:10–19 and 22:12–16. From these passages, we can imitate him by being fearless followers of Jesus Christ. 

His Character

Devout According to the Law (Acts 22:12): Paul called Ananias “a devout man according to the law,” a term used only by Luke to describe Simeon (Luke 2:25), pilgrims visiting Jerusalem on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:5), and the men who buried Stephen (Acts 8:2). Based on his knowledge of the Old Testament, Ananias feared God and was reverent towards Him.

Well Spoken of by the Damascus Jews (Acts 22:12): Paul also described Ananias as “well spoken of,” translated from martureō, usually translated “to witness.” In this context, however, this witness carries the notion of approval, meaning his fellow Jesus gave him “a good report” (KJV). Like Timothy, Ananias enjoyed the good reputation of being a godly man among the people around him (cf. Acts 16:2). 

A Disciple (Acts 9:10): Ananias was “a disciple” who saw and conversed with the Lord Jesus in a vision (cf. Acts 9:17). Ananias was a Jewish Christian who saw Jesus as his Messiah. 

Ready to Serve the Lord (Acts 9:10): Upon being called by name by the Lord, Ananias responded, “Here I am, Lord” (Acts 9:10; cf. Gen 22:1; Exod 3:4; 1 Sam 3:4; Isa 6:8). Ananias was ready to hear from the Lord and humbly obey His will.

His Conflict

In this vision, Christ commanded Ananias to do a difficult thing—heal the blindness of Saul (Acts 9:12–13). Ananias objected that Saul was a well-known persecutor of Christians who had authority to imprison the saints in his city (Acts 9:12–13; cf. 9:14–15). 

His Commitment

In response, the Lord informed Ananias that Saul would carry His name before Gentiles, kings, and Israelites, suffering much along the way (Acts 9:15–16). Ananias trusted and obeyed. He healed Saul, announced his filling of the Spirit, baptized him, and told him that he would be a witness to the gospel (Acts 9:17–19; 22:13–16). He was committed to serving Christ, as difficult as this task may have seemed at first.

Our Response: Fearless Followers of Jesus Christ

This brief survey of Ananias brings us to a number of questions. Are you a devout person according to the Word of God? Are you well spoken of by your fellow Christians? Are you known as a disciple of Jesus Christ? Are you ready to serve the Lord, whatever the task may be? Is your commitment to Christ wholehearted, obeying Him even when earthly doubts arise? A godly character will help us keep our commitment to Christ whenever a conflict may arise. May God help us to be like Ananias and like the Lord he served, each one a fearless follower of Jesus Christ.