9:26 9:26

Acts 9:27

9:28 9:28

Bible Versions

But Barnabas took him, and brought [him] to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus.
But {G1161} Barnabas {G921} took {G1949} him {G846}, and brought {G71} him to {G4314} the apostles {G652}, and {G2532} declared {G1334} unto them {G846} how {G4459} he had seen {G1492} the Lord {G2962} in {G1722} the way {G3598}, and {G2532} that {G3754} he had spoken {G2980} to him {G846}, and {G2532} how {G4459} he had preached boldly {G3955} at {G1722} Damascus {G1154} in {G1722} the name {G3686} of Jesus {G2424}.
However, Bar-Nabba got hold of him and took him to the emissaries. He told them how Sha’ul had seen the Lord while traveling, that the Lord had spoken to him, and how in Dammesek Sha’ul had spoken out boldly in the name of Yeshua.
Then Barnabas brought him to the apostles and described how Saul had seen the Lord, who spoke to him on the road to Damascus, and how Saul had spoken boldly in that city in the name of Jesus.
But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how at Damascus he had preached boldly in the name of Jesus.

Context of Acts 9:27

Acts 9:27 marks a pivotal moment in the early Christian church, immediately following the dramatic conversion of Saul (who would later be known as Paul) on the road to Damascus. After his encounter with the risen Jesus and subsequent healing through Ananias's ministry in Damascus, Saul began to preach boldly in the synagogues there, confounding the Jews. However, when Saul eventually came to Jerusalem, the disciples were understandably afraid of him, knowing his notorious past as a fierce persecutor of Christians. This verse highlights the crucial intervention of Barnabas, who bridged the gap between the skeptical apostles and the newly converted Saul.

Key Themes and Messages

  • The Power of Transformation: Saul's radical change from persecutor to preacher was so profound that it initially defied belief. This verse underscores the reality of God's transforming power in a human life, even in the eyes of those who knew his past.
  • Barnabas as a Bridge-Builder: Barnabas, whose name means "son of encouragement" (Acts 4:36), plays an indispensable role. He takes a risk, vouches for Saul, and facilitates his acceptance into the apostolic circle. This highlights the importance of individuals who are willing to mentor, advocate for, and encourage new believers, especially those with challenging pasts.
  • Validation of Testimony: Barnabas's detailed account of Saul's conversion experience and his subsequent bold preaching in Damascus served as vital evidence to the apostles. This act of validation was crucial for Saul to be accepted and integrated into the leadership of the nascent church.
  • Bold Proclamation: The mention of Saul having "preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus" reiterates his immediate and fearless commitment to proclaiming the Gospel, a characteristic that would define his future ministry (Acts 4:31).

Linguistic Insights

The name Barnabas (Βαρνάβας) is a significant detail here. As noted in Acts 4:36, it means "son of encouragement" or "son of consolation." This meaning perfectly aligns with his actions in this verse, as he provides comfort and validation to Saul, and reassurance to the apostles. His character is consistently portrayed as one who champions others.

Practical Application

Acts 9:27 offers several timeless lessons for believers and the church today:

  • Embrace the Transformed: Be open to and welcome those whose lives have been radically changed by Christ, even if their past is complex or notorious. God's grace can transform anyone.
  • Be a Barnabas: Seek opportunities to be an encourager, a mentor, or a bridge-builder for others, particularly for new believers or those facing skepticism. Sometimes, all it takes is one person to believe in someone else to unlock their potential.
  • Value Personal Testimony: The power of a personal encounter with Jesus and the subsequent change it brings is a compelling witness. Sharing one's story can help others understand and believe.
  • Courage in Witness: Like Saul, believers are called to preach and live out their faith boldly, regardless of past circumstances or potential opposition. The message of Jesus is powerful enough to stand on its own.
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.

  • Acts 4:36

    And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, [and] of the country of Cyprus,

  • Acts 4:29

    And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word,

  • Acts 4:13

    Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.

  • Acts 9:20

    And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God.

  • Acts 9:22

    But Saul increased the more in strength, and confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is very Christ.

  • Galatians 1:18

    Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter, and abode with him fifteen days.

  • Galatians 1:19

    But other of the apostles saw I none, save James the Lord's brother.
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