Acts 22:20

In Acts 22:20, the Apostle Paul, then known as Saul, recounts his zealous past to a Jewish crowd in Jerusalem, explaining his dramatic transformation. This verse serves as a powerful confession of his active role in the persecution of early Christians, specifically highlighting his complicity in the death of Stephen, the first Christian martyr.

Context

This verse is part of Paul's defense speech before the Jewish people in Jerusalem, as recorded in Acts chapter 22. He is explaining why he, a former zealous Pharisee and persecutor of Christians, now preaches the Gospel. By openly admitting his dark past, including his involvement in Stephen's stoning, Paul sets the stage for his testimony of a radical encounter with Jesus Christ on the road to Damascus, which utterly changed his life and mission. The original account of Stephen's martyrdom, where Saul is first mentioned, can be found in Acts 7:58.

Key Themes

• Paul's Profound Guilt and Zeal: Paul's confession reveals the depth of his opposition to the nascent Christian movement. He was not merely a bystander but actively "consenting unto his death," meaning he fully approved and supported the execution. His role in "kept the raiment" of those who stoned Stephen indicates a position of authority or active participation in the event, underscoring his former identity as a persecutor.
• The Power of Divine Transformation: This verse starkly contrasts Paul's past with his present. His acknowledgment of his role in Stephen's death emphasizes the immense grace and transformative power of God, who could convert such an ardent persecutor into His most fervent apostle. This transformation is a central theme in Paul's life and ministry, as seen in his conversion narrative in Acts 9:1-19.
• Martyrdom and Witness: Stephen is referred to as "thy martyr," a term that highlights his faithfulness unto death. His willingness to die for his belief served as a powerful witness to Christ, even impacting his persecutor, Saul, though not immediately. This concept of bearing witness, even to death, is foundational to understanding early Christian discipleship.

Linguistic Insights

• The word "martyr" comes from the Greek martys (μάρτυς), which originally means "witness." Stephen was a witness to Christ's resurrection and divinity, and he bore this witness to the point of death, thus becoming the first Christian martyr.
• The phrase "consenting unto his death" translates the Greek word syneudokon (συνευδοκῶν), which implies not just passive agreement but active approval, pleasure, or delight in the action. This emphasizes Paul's deep-seated conviction that Stephen's execution was justified and necessary.
• "Kept the raiment" refers to the practice of those stoning Stephen laying their outer garments at Saul's feet. This was not merely a logistical role but symbolized his endorsement and perhaps even leadership or oversight of the execution.

Practical Application

Acts 22:20 offers profound lessons for believers today:

• God's Limitless Grace: Paul's testimony is a powerful reminder that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace and transformative power. Even those who actively oppose Christ can be radically changed and used for His purposes, offering hope for personal redemption and for reaching others.
• Acknowledging Our Past: Paul openly confessed his past wrongs, demonstrating the importance of acknowledging our own complicity in sin, even as we embrace forgiveness and new life in Christ. This humility fosters genuine repentance and deeper faith.
• The Enduring Power of Witness: Stephen's faithful witness, even in death, had a lasting impact. His example encourages believers to stand firm in their faith, knowing that their witness, even in challenging circumstances, can have far-reaching and eternal consequences, possibly even influencing those who oppose them.