Acts 9:28

KJV

And he was with them coming in and going out at Jerusalem.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} he was {G2258} with {G3326} them {G846} coming in {G1531} and {G2532} going out {G1607} at {G1722} Jerusalem {G2419}.

Complete Jewish Bible

So he remained with them and went all over Yerushalayim continuing to speak out boldly in the name of the Lord.

Berean Standard Bible

So Saul stayed with them, moving about freely in Jerusalem and speaking boldly in the name of the Lord.

American Standard Version

And he was with them going in and going out at Jerusalem,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 9:28 describes the full integration of Saul, the newly converted persecutor, into the Christian community in Jerusalem. Following Barnabas's courageous advocacy, Saul was no longer an outcast but moved freely among the apostles and believers, actively participating in their fellowship and public ministry in the very city where he had once sought to destroy the church. This verse marks a significant turning point, demonstrating God's transformative power and the early church's capacity for radical reconciliation and acceptance.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows Saul's dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus, his initial preaching in Damascus, and his subsequent arrival in Jerusalem. Upon his arrival, the disciples in Jerusalem were deeply apprehensive, fearing him due to his notorious past as a persecutor of Christians ([Acts 9:26](/acts/9-26 "Acts 9:26 - Saul's Arrival in Jerusalem")). It was Barnabas, a man known for his encouraging spirit and generosity ([Acts 4:36-37](/acts/4-36-37 "Acts 4:36-37 - Barnabas, Son of Encouragement")), who bravely took Saul under his wing. Barnabas introduced Saul to the apostles, specifically Peter and James, and recounted Saul's powerful encounter with the resurrected Christ and his bold preaching in Damascus ([Acts 9:27](/acts/9-27 "Acts 9:27 - Barnabas Vouching for Saul")). Acts 9:28 then serves as the culmination of this acceptance, signifying Saul's full entry into the Jerusalem fellowship, setting the stage for his subsequent disputations with Hellenistic Jews mentioned in the following verse ([Acts 9:29](/acts/9-29 "Acts 9:29 - Saul's Disputations in Jerusalem")).

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Jerusalem, at this time, was the epicenter of early Christian activity, but also a hotbed of Jewish religious and political tension. The Sanhedrin, the supreme Jewish judicial body, was based there, and it was from this authority that Saul had previously obtained letters to persecute Christians in Damascus ([Acts 9:1-2](/acts/9-1-2 "Acts 9:1-2 - Saul's Persecution and Commission")). The initial fear of Saul by the Jerusalem disciples was entirely rational given his history of violence against them, including his presence at the stoning of Stephen ([Acts 7:58](/acts/7-58 "Acts 7:58 - The Stoning of Stephen")). The phrase "coming in and going out" was a well-understood idiom in the ancient Near East, signifying full freedom of movement, active participation in daily life, and often, a position of leadership or full integration within a community. For Saul to be doing this "at Jerusalem" was a profound reversal of his former role and a public testament to his transformation.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully illustrates several foundational themes within the book of Acts and Christian theology. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Transformation**, showcasing God's radical ability to convert the fiercest opponent into a devoted follower and powerful instrument for His purposes, as seen in Saul's dramatic shift from persecutor to preacher. It also highlights the **Reconciling Power of the Gospel**, demonstrating how the love of Christ can bridge even the deepest divides and foster unity among former adversaries. The **Importance of Christian Community and Fellowship** is underscored, as Saul's acceptance was not automatic but facilitated by the courageous advocacy of Barnabas, emphasizing the role of intercession and welcome within the body of Christ. Finally, Saul's active presence signifies the theme of **Bold Witness and Active Ministry**, as he immediately began to engage in public disputation, fulfilling the divine commission given to him to bear witness to Christ ([Acts 9:15](/acts/9-15 "Acts 9:15 - Ananias's Vision and Commission to Saul")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **coming in (Greek, _eisporeúomai'_):** From the Greek `G1531`, this verb means "to enter" or "to come in." In this context, it signifies Saul's unhindered access and presence within the Christian community and the city of Jerusalem. It implies not merely physical entry but also acceptance into the inner circle of fellowship and daily life among the believers.
* **going out (Greek, _ekporeúomai'_):** Derived from the Greek `G1607`, meaning "to depart," "to go out," or "to proceed." Paired with "coming in," it forms a common biblical idiom denoting full freedom of movement, active participation in public life, and complete integration. For Saul, it indicates his liberty to engage in ministry and daily interactions without fear of rejection from the Christian community.
* **with (Greek, _metá'_):** From the Greek `G3326`, this preposition denotes accompaniment, "amid," or "together with." When combined with "them" (G846, _autós_), it emphasizes Saul's close association and fellowship with the apostles and other believers. It signifies a shared life and ministry, a stark contrast to his previous hostile relationship with them.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he was with them":** This clause establishes Saul's new relational status. The imperfect tense of "was" (Greek `G2258`, _ēn_) suggests a continuous state of being, indicating that Saul's presence among the disciples was not fleeting but an ongoing reality. The phrase "with them" (Greek `G3326` _metá_ and `G846` _autós_) explicitly identifies "them" as the apostles and believers in Jerusalem, signifying his acceptance into their fellowship and daily life, a direct result of Barnabas's intervention.
* **"coming in and going out":** This idiomatic phrase (Greek `G1531` _eisporeúomai_ and `G1607` _ekporeúomai_) is crucial. It denotes complete freedom of movement, full access, and active participation in the community's daily affairs. It's a comprehensive description of his public and private life, indicating that he was fully integrated, no longer an outsider or a threat, but a trusted member who shared in their activities and ministry. This idiom is often used in the Old Testament to describe leaders or those fully engaged in the life of a community.
* **"at Jerusalem.":** This final phrase (Greek `G1722` _en_ and `G2419` _Hierousalḗm_) specifies the location of this remarkable transformation and integration. Jerusalem, the very city where Saul had received authority to persecute Christians and where Stephen was martyred, now becomes the stage for his public acceptance and active ministry among the believers. This geographical detail underscores the profound irony and power of God's redemptive work in Saul's life.

#### Literary Devices
The verse "And he was with them coming in and going out at Jerusalem" is rich with literary significance. The most prominent device is **Idiom**, specifically the phrase "coming in and going out." This is a well-established biblical idiom, particularly prevalent in the Old Testament (e.g., [Numbers 27:17](/numbers/27-17 "Numbers 27:17 - Joshua's Leadership") or [Psalm 121:8](/psalms/121-8 "Psalm 121:8 - God's Protection Over Daily Life")), signifying full freedom of movement, active participation, and often, a position of leadership or full integration within a community. Its use here powerfully conveys Saul's complete acceptance and active role. There is also strong **Irony** present; the man who once "breathed threats and murder" ([Acts 9:1](/acts/9-1 "Acts 9:1 - Saul's Persecution")) against believers in Jerusalem is now freely moving among them as one of their own. This dramatic reversal highlights the transformative power of God. Finally, the verse employs **Symbolism**: Saul's unhindered movement symbolizes his spiritual liberation from sin and his new identity in Christ, as well as the church's embrace of grace and forgiveness. His presence in Jerusalem, no longer as a predator but as a brother, serves as a living testament to the radical reconciliation offered by the Gospel.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 9:28 encapsulates the profound theological truth of God's redemptive power and the church's calling to radical reconciliation. Saul's transformation from a zealous persecutor to an accepted member of the Christian community in Jerusalem demonstrates that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace. This verse underscores the New Covenant reality where former animosities are dissolved in Christ, and unity is forged through shared faith. It challenges believers to extend grace, forgiveness, and genuine fellowship, even to those who were once adversaries, mirroring the welcoming heart of God. The acceptance of Saul, facilitated by Barnabas, serves as a powerful model for how the church should integrate new converts and those with difficult pasts, affirming that true repentance leads to full inclusion in the body of Christ.

* [Numbers 27:17](/numbers/27-17 "Numbers 27:17 - Joshua's Leadership")
* [Psalm 121:8](/psalms/121-8 "Psalm 121:8 - God's Protection Over Daily Life")
* [Galatians 1:18-19](/galatians/1-18-19 "Galatians 1:18-19 - Paul's First Visit to Jerusalem")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 9:28 offers a compelling narrative for contemporary believers, inviting us to reflect on the transformative power of God and the nature of Christian community. Saul's story reminds us that God's grace is boundless, capable of changing the most hardened hearts and redirecting lives for His glory. It challenges any preconceived notions we might hold about who is "too far gone" for redemption, encouraging us to pray for and pursue the salvation of all, even those who seem most opposed to the Gospel. Furthermore, the church's acceptance of Saul, particularly through Barnabas's courageous advocacy, serves as a powerful model for our own communities. Are we willing to extend radical hospitality and trust to those who genuinely repent, even if their past is fraught with conflict or opposition? Do we, like Barnabas, actively seek to bridge gaps and advocate for the integration of new or misunderstood members into the fellowship? This verse calls us to embody the reconciling love of Christ, fostering environments where forgiveness flourishes, and transformed lives are fully embraced and empowered for ministry. It encourages us to be bold in our witness, knowing that God can use anyone, anywhere, to advance His kingdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Saul's radical transformation challenge my own perceptions of who God can save or use for His purposes?**
* **In what ways can I, like Barnabas, be an advocate for others, helping to bridge gaps and facilitate their integration into Christian community?**
* **Am I willing to extend genuine acceptance and fellowship to those whose pasts might make me hesitant, trusting in God's power to truly change hearts?**
* **How does Saul's immediate and active participation in ministry after his conversion inspire my own boldness in sharing my faith?**

### FAQ

**What does "coming in and going out" mean in this context?**

Answer: The phrase "coming in and going out" (Greek: _eisporeúomai_ and _ekporeúomai_) is a common biblical idiom that signifies full freedom of movement, active participation, and complete integration within a community or household. It implies that Saul was not merely tolerated but was fully accepted and involved in the daily life, fellowship, and public ministry of the Jerusalem believers. This idiom is used in various biblical contexts to describe the daily activities of leaders or the general conduct of one's life, such as in [Numbers 27:17](/numbers/27-17 "Numbers 27:17 - Joshua's Leadership") concerning Joshua's leadership or [Psalm 121:8](/psalms/121-8 "Psalm 121:8 - God's Protection Over Daily Life") regarding God's protection over one's daily activities. For Saul, it meant he was no longer an outsider or a threat but a trusted and active member of the Christian community in Jerusalem.

**Why was Barnabas's role so crucial in Saul's acceptance?**

Answer: Barnabas's role was absolutely crucial because he served as the bridge between Saul and the suspicious Jerusalem apostles and disciples. Given Saul's infamous past as a fierce persecutor of Christians ([Acts 9:1-2](/acts/9-1-2 "Acts 9:1-2 - Saul's Persecution")), the believers in Jerusalem were understandably fearful and hesitant to accept him ([Acts 9:26](/acts/9-26 "Acts 9:26 - Disciples' Fear of Saul")). Barnabas, whose name means "Son of Encouragement" ([Acts 4:36](/acts/4-36 "Acts 4:36 - Barnabas's Name")), took the risk of vouching for Saul. He brought Saul to the apostles, recounted his dramatic conversion experience, and attested to his bold preaching in Damascus ([Acts 9:27](/acts/9-27 "Acts 9:27 - Barnabas Vouching for Saul")). Without Barnabas's personal credibility and courageous advocacy, it is highly unlikely that Saul would have gained the trust and acceptance necessary to be integrated into the Jerusalem church and begin his ministry there. His actions exemplify the importance of intercession and radical welcome within the Christian community.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 9:28, while detailing Saul's integration into the early church, powerfully foreshadows and embodies the Christ-centered reality of reconciliation and new creation. Saul's transformation from an enemy of the cross to a beloved brother "coming in and going out" among the saints is a vivid illustration of how Christ breaks down walls of hostility and makes all things new. In Christ, there is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male or female, but all are one ([Galatians 3:28](/galatians/3-28 "Galatians 3:28 - Unity in Christ")). Saul, once alienated from God and His people, is now a "new creation" ([2 Corinthians 5:17](/2_corinthians/5-17 "2 Corinthians 5:17 - New Creation in Christ")), fully welcomed into the household of God, no longer a stranger or foreigner but a fellow citizen with the saints ([Ephesians 2:19-20](/ephesians/2-19-20 "Ephesians 2:19-20 - Fellow Citizens with the Saints")). This radical acceptance by the Jerusalem church, motivated by the Spirit of Christ, demonstrates the very love that Jesus commanded His disciples to show one another, by which all people would know them as His followers ([John 13:34-35](/john/13-34-35 "John 13:34-35 - A New Commandment to Love")). Thus, Saul's story in Acts 9:28 is not merely a historical account but a living testament to the unifying and transforming power of Christ, who enables both the radical conversion of individuals and the radical reconciliation within His body.

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

Acts 1:21

Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us,

Psalms 121:8

The LORD shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore.

Numbers 27:16

Let the LORD, the God of the spirits of all flesh, set a man over the congregation,

Numbers 27:17

Which may go out before them, and which may go in before them, and which may lead them out, and which may bring them in; that the congregation of the LORD be not as sheep which have no shepherd.

Galatians 1:18

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

1 Kings 3:7

And now, O LORD my God, thou hast made thy servant king instead of David my father: and I [am but] a little child: I know not [how] to go out or come in.

John 10:9

I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.