Acts 9:13

KJV

Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem:

KJV (with Strong's)

Then {G1161} Ananias {G367} answered {G611}, Lord {G2962}, I have heard {G191} by {G575} many {G4183} of {G4012} this {G5127} man {G435}, how much {G3745} evil {G2556} he hath done {G4160} to thy {G4675} saints {G40} at {G1722} Jerusalem {G2419}:

Complete Jewish Bible

But Hananyah answered, “Lord, many have told me about this man, how much harm he has done to your people in Yerushalayim;

Berean Standard Bible

But Ananias answered, “Lord, many people have told me about this man and all the harm he has done to Your saints in Jerusalem.

American Standard Version

But Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard from many of this man, how much evil he did to thy saints at Jerusalem:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 9:13 captures the profound human apprehension of Ananias, a devout disciple in Damascus, as he responds to a divine command from the Lord Jesus in a vision. Having just been instructed to minister to Saul of Tarsus—a man infamous for his violent persecution of believers—Ananias voices his understandable skepticism and fear, recounting the extensive harm Saul has inflicted upon God's people in Jerusalem. This verse highlights the tension between a disciple's knowledge of a dangerous past and God's surprising, redemptive purposes.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is a pivotal moment following the dramatic events of [Saul's encounter with the risen Christ on the Damascus Road](/acts/9-1-9 "Acts 9:1-9 - Saul's Conversion"). Saul, blinded and humbled, is now in Damascus, awaiting further divine instruction. Simultaneously, the Lord appears to Ananias in a vision, commanding him to go to the house of Judas on Straight Street to lay hands on Saul, so that he might regain his sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit ([Acts 9:10-12](/acts/9-10-12 "Acts 9:10-12 - The Lord's Command to Ananias")). Ananias's response in verse 13 is his immediate, visceral reaction to this astonishing and seemingly dangerous directive, setting up the Lord's further revelation of Saul's future mission in [Acts 9:15-16](/acts/9-15-16 "Acts 9:15-16 - God's Purpose for Saul").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Saul of Tarsus was a zealous Pharisee and a leading figure in the persecution of the nascent Christian church. His reputation as a persecutor was widespread and terrifying, particularly after his involvement in the martyrdom of Stephen ([Acts 7:58](/acts/7-58 "Acts 7:58 - Stephen's Martyrdom")) and his active campaign to [imprison believers in Jerusalem](/acts/8-3 "Acts 8:3 - Saul's Persecution of the Church"). For Ananias, a known disciple, the idea of approaching such a man would have evoked legitimate fear for his own safety and the safety of the Christian community in Damascus. The early church was a vulnerable minority, and Saul represented a significant, violent threat. Jerusalem was the epicenter of this persecution, making Saul's deeds there particularly notorious among believers.
* **Key Themes:** Acts 9:13 contributes to several major themes in the book of Acts and the broader biblical narrative. It underscores the theme of **divine sovereignty** and God's surprising methods, as He chooses a persecutor to become His primary apostle to the Gentiles. It highlights the **radical transformative power of the Gospel**, demonstrating that no one is beyond God's redemptive reach, even the most virulent opponents of the faith. Ananias's apprehension also brings to light the theme of **human fear and questioning in the face of divine command**, a common human experience throughout biblical history, from Moses at the burning bush ([Exodus 3:11](/exodus/3-11 "Exodus 3:11 - Moses' Hesitation")) to Peter's reluctance to eat unclean animals in a vision ([Acts 10:14](/acts/10-14 "Acts 10:14 - Peter's Vision and Resistance")). Finally, the verse emphasizes the **solidarity of believers** as "saints," highlighting their shared identity and the personal nature of the persecution against them as an attack on God Himself.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **answered (Greek, _apokrínomai'_):** This word (G611) signifies more than a simple reply; it can imply a considered response, often in a context where an address or instruction is expected. Ananias's "answer" is not merely a question but a reasoned protest, stemming from his knowledge of Saul's notorious past and his concern for the "saints." It reflects a human wrestling with a divine directive that seems to defy logic and safety.
* **Lord (Greek, _kýrios'_):** Ananias addresses Jesus as "Lord" (G2962), indicating his recognition of Jesus' supreme authority and mastery. Despite his apprehension, Ananias does not question the source of the command, only its implications given the recipient. This respectful address underscores his discipleship and his submission to Christ, even as he expresses his profound reservations.
* **evil (Greek, _kakós'_):** The term "evil" (G2556) here describes Saul's actions as intrinsically worthless, depraved, and injurious. It's not merely a description of harm but of a malevolent intent and character behind the persecution. Ananias uses this strong term to convey the severity and moral reprehensibility of Saul's deeds against the Christian community, emphasizing the depth of his opposition to Christ's followers.
* **saints (Greek, _hágios'_):** This word (G40) refers to those who are "sacred," "holy," or "set apart" for God. It is a common New Testament designation for believers, emphasizing their consecrated status and their belonging to God, rather than implying moral perfection. Ananias's use of "thy saints" (G4675, _soû_ - thy) is particularly poignant, as it highlights that the persecution of believers is not merely an attack on people, but a direct affront to God Himself, whose people they are.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then Ananias answered, Lord,"**: This opening phrase immediately establishes a direct dialogue between Ananias and the Lord Jesus, occurring within the context of a divine vision. Ananias's respectful address, "Lord," indicates his recognition of Jesus' authority, even as he is about to express profound reservations about the divine instruction he has received. It sets the stage for a candid, yet reverent, exchange.
* **"I have heard by many of this man,"**: Ananias justifies his apprehension by appealing to widely known facts. His knowledge of Saul's activities is not based on rumor but on credible, widespread reports ("by many"). This highlights Saul's notorious reputation among believers and underscores the very real and pervasive fear he instilled in the early Christian community. Ananias's concern is rooted in a collective experience of terror.
* **"how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem:"**: This clause specifies the nature and extent of Saul's infamous deeds. The phrase "how much evil" emphasizes the sheer volume and severity of his destructive actions. Crucially, Ananias identifies the victims as "thy saints," directly linking the persecuted believers to the Lord Himself. This frames the persecution not just as a human conflict, but as an assault on God's own consecrated people, primarily centered in Jerusalem, the initial hub of the Christian movement and Saul's most active sphere of persecution.

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs several potent literary devices. **Dialogue** is central, presenting a direct, personal exchange between Ananias and the Lord, which humanizes Ananias's very real fear and allows for divine reassurance. There is significant **Irony** in the Lord's command, as the persecutor of the church is chosen to become its most fervent evangelist; Ananias's protest underscores this irony, highlighting the radical nature of God's redemptive plan. The phrase "how much evil he hath done" functions as **Hyperbole**, emphasizing the extensive and severe nature of Saul's persecution, reflecting the deep emotional impact and widespread knowledge of his actions among believers. Furthermore, Ananias's statement serves as **Foreshadowing**, setting up the dramatic reveal in the subsequent verses about Saul's surprising future as God's chosen instrument to the Gentiles, thereby transforming the context of "this man" from a feared oppressor to a future apostle.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ananias's hesitant response in Acts 9:13 powerfully illustrates the tension between human perception and divine purpose. It reminds us that God's ways are often higher than our ways, and His choices can defy human logic and expectation. The Lord's command to Ananias, despite Saul's terrifying reputation, underscores God's boundless grace and His sovereign ability to transform even the most hardened hearts into instruments for His glory. This encounter sets the stage for the radical reversal of Saul's life, demonstrating that God's redemptive power extends to all, regardless of their past actions, and that He can use anyone, even those who were once enemies of the Gospel, to advance His kingdom.

* [Isaiah 55:8-9](/isaiah/55-8-9 "Isaiah 55:8-9 - God's Thoughts and Ways")
* [Romans 5:20](/romans/5-20 "Romans 5:20 - Where Sin Increased, Grace Abounded")
* [1 Timothy 1:12-16](/1_timothy/1-12-16 "1 Timothy 1:12-16 - Paul's Testimony of God's Grace")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ananias's initial reaction to the Lord's command is profoundly relatable. We, too, often find ourselves questioning God's directives when they seem to defy our understanding, challenge our comfort zones, or require us to engage with individuals or situations that appear threatening or beyond redemption. This passage calls us to cultivate a deeper trust in God's sovereign wisdom and His transformative power, even when His plans seem counterintuitive or risky. It challenges us to overcome our prejudices and preconceived notions about others, recognizing that God's grace can radically change any heart. Just as Ananias had to step out in faith despite his fear, we are invited to embrace obedience, knowing that God's purposes are always good and ultimately redemptive, leading to astonishing outcomes that far surpass our limited human expectations.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **When has God asked you to do something that seemed counterintuitive or risky? How did you respond?**
* **What prejudices or preconceived notions might you hold about others that could be hindering God's work through you?**
* **How does Saul's transformation, prompted by Ananias's obedience, encourage your faith in God's redemptive power for yourself or for others you know?**
* **In what ways does this passage affirm that persecution against believers is ultimately an attack on God Himself?**

### FAQ

**Why was Ananias so hesitant to go to Saul?**

Answer: Ananias's hesitation was entirely understandable and rooted in Saul's well-known, violent history as a persecutor of Christians. Saul had gained a notorious reputation for actively seeking out and imprisoning believers, even participating in the stoning of Stephen in [Acts 7:58](/acts/7-58 "Acts 7:58 - Stephen's Martyrdom") and [dragging men and women to prison](/acts/8-3 "Acts 8:3 - Saul's Persecution"). For Ananias, a devout disciple in Damascus, approaching such a man, who was specifically on a mission to arrest Christians in that very city ([Acts 9:1-2](/acts/9-1-2 "Acts 9:1-2 - Saul's Mission to Damascus")), would have seemed like walking into a trap or a highly dangerous situation. His concern was not a lack of faith in God, but a very human and rational fear given the tangible threat Saul represented to the early Christian community.

**What does "thy saints" mean in this context?**

Answer: The term "saints" (Greek: _hagioi_) refers to believers, those who are "set apart" or consecrated to God. It emphasizes their spiritual status as belonging to God and being dedicated to His purposes, rather than implying moral perfection. When Ananias says "thy saints," he is directly addressing Jesus and highlighting that the persecution Saul inflicted was not just against a group of people, but against God's own people, those whom He had chosen and set apart. This underscores the personal nature of the offense against the Lord and the deep connection between Christ and His followers, a theme echoed in Jesus' own words to Saul on the Damascus Road: "[Why persecutest thou me?](/acts/9-4 "Acts 9:4 - Jesus' Question to Saul")"

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 9:13, though focused on Ananias's human reaction, profoundly points to the Christ-centered nature of God's redemptive plan. Ananias's fear of Saul, the persecutor, is ultimately overcome by the direct command of the risen Christ, demonstrating that Jesus is sovereign over all human opposition and capable of transforming the most hardened hearts. The Lord's choice of Saul, who had done "much evil to thy saints," foreshadows the boundless grace available through Christ's atoning work. Just as Christ's death on the cross disarmed the powers of darkness and reconciled enemies to God ([Colossians 2:13-15](/colossians/2-13-15 "Colossians 2:13-15 - Triumph Over Principalities")), so too does His living presence transform Saul from a persecutor into Paul, the apostle of grace. This narrative beautifully illustrates the core Gospel message: that through Christ, even the chief of sinners can find mercy and be used for God's glory ([1 Timothy 1:15-16](/1_timothy/1-15-16 "1 Timothy 1:15-16 - Christ Jesus Came to Save Sinners")). Ananias's obedience, prompted by Christ's clear instruction, becomes a vital step in the expansion of the Gospel, showcasing how Christ empowers His followers to participate in His redemptive mission, even when it requires stepping into seemingly impossible or dangerous situations, trusting in His ultimate authority and transforming power ([Matthew 28:18-20](/matthew/28-18-20 "Matthew 28:18-20 - The Great Commission")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Timothy 1:13

Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did [it] ignorantly in unbelief.

1 Timothy 1:15

This [is] a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.

Acts 8:3

As for Saul, he made havock of the church, entering into every house, and haling men and women committed [them] to prison.

Ezekiel 3:14

So the spirit lifted me up, and took me away, and I went in bitterness, in the heat of my spirit; but the hand of the LORD was strong upon me.

Acts 22:19

And I said, Lord, they know that I imprisoned and beat in every synagogue them that believed on thee:

Acts 22:20

And when the blood of thy martyr Stephen was shed, I also was standing by, and consenting unto his death, and kept the raiment of them that slew him.

Acts 9:1

¶ And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest,