Acts 13:7

Which was with the deputy of the country, Sergius Paulus, a prudent man; who called for Barnabas and Saul, and desired to hear the word of God.

Which {G3739} was {G2258} with {G4862} the deputy of the country {G446}, Sergius {G4588} Paulus {G3972}, a prudent {G4908} man {G435}; who {G3778} called {G4341} for Barnabas {G921} and {G2532} Saul {G4569}, and desired {G1934} to hear {G191} the word {G3056} of God {G2316}.

He had attached himself to the governor, Sergius Paulus, who was an intelligent man. Now the governor had called for Bar-Nabba and Sha’ul and was anxious to hear the message about God;

an attendant of the proconsul, Sergius Paulus. The proconsul, a man of intelligence, summoned Barnabas and Saul because he wanted to hear the word of God.

who was with the proconsul, Sergius Paulus, a man of understanding. The same called unto him Barnabas and Saul, and sought to hear the word of God.

Context

Acts 13:7 places us early in what is traditionally known as Paul's first missionary journey, where he is still referred to as Saul. Accompanied by Barnabas and John Mark, they have traveled through the island of Cyprus, arriving at Paphos, the capital city. This verse introduces Sergius Paulus, a key figure who demonstrates an openness to the Gospel, setting the stage for a dramatic confrontation with a sorcerer named Bar-jesus (Elymas), as detailed in Acts 13:8. This encounter is significant as it marks a pivotal moment where the apostolic ministry begins to reach influential Gentiles.

Key Themes

  • Divine Opportunity: God orchestrates encounters for the Gospel to reach unexpected places and people. Sergius Paulus's position as a Roman official highlights God's intent to bring the message to all social strata.
  • The Desire for Truth: Despite his high office and likely exposure to various pagan philosophies, Sergius Paulus showed a genuine spiritual hunger, actively seeking out Barnabas and Saul to "hear the word of God." This underscores a universal human longing for spiritual understanding.
  • The Power of God's Word: The proconsul's desire to hear the "word of God" emphasizes its inherent value and the transformative power it carries. The apostles were not merely sharing opinions but divine truth.

Linguistic Insights

The term "deputy of the country" is from the Greek word anthupatos (ἀνθύπατος), which accurately translates to "proconsul." This specific title confirms Luke's historical precision, as Cyprus was indeed a senatorial province governed by a proconsul during this period. The description of Sergius Paulus as "a prudent man" (Greek: aner sunetos, ἀνὴρ συνετός) indicates he was discerning, intelligent, and open-minded, distinguishing him from those who might be easily misled by false teachings.

Practical Application

Acts 13:7 encourages believers to recognize and respond to spiritual openness in others, regardless of their background or status. Just as Sergius Paulus desired to hear the word of God, many today are searching for truth. This verse reminds us that God is actively at work, opening doors for the gospel, and we should be prepared to share it when such opportunities arise. It highlights the importance of being discerning and seeking out authentic spiritual teaching.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Acts 13:12

    Then the deputy, when he saw what was done, believed, being astonished at the doctrine of the Lord.

  • Acts 19:38

    Wherefore if Demetrius, and the craftsmen which are with him, have a matter against any man, the law is open, and there are deputies: let them implead one another.

  • Acts 18:12

    ¶ And when Gallio was the deputy of Achaia, the Jews made insurrection with one accord against Paul, and brought him to the judgment seat,

  • Proverbs 18:15

    ¶ The heart of the prudent getteth knowledge; and the ear of the wise seeketh knowledge.

  • Acts 13:8

    But Elymas the sorcerer (for so is his name by interpretation) withstood them, seeking to turn away the deputy from the faith.

  • Hosea 14:9

    Who [is] wise, and he shall understand these [things]? prudent, and he shall know them? for the ways of the LORD [are] right, and the just shall walk in them: but the transgressors shall fall therein.

  • Proverbs 14:15

    ¶ The simple believeth every word: but the prudent [man] looketh well to his going.

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