Acts 9:29

KJV

And he spake boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus, and disputed against the Grecians: but they went about to slay him.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} he spake {G2980} boldly {G3955} in {G1722} the name {G3686} of the Lord {G2962} Jesus {G2424}, and {G5037}{G2532} disputed {G4802} against {G4314} the Grecians {G1675}: but {G1161} they went about {G2021} to slay {G337} him {G846}.

Complete Jewish Bible

He talked and debated with the Greek-speaking Jews, but they began making attempts to kill him.

Berean Standard Bible

He talked and debated with the Grecian Jews, but they tried to kill him.

American Standard Version

preaching boldly in the name of the Lord: and he spake and disputed against the Grecian Jews; but they were seeking to kill him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 9:29 marks a pivotal moment in the nascent ministry of Saul of Tarsus, soon to be known as the Apostle Paul, following his dramatic conversion. This verse vividly portrays his immediate and fervent dedication to proclaiming the Lord Jesus with unwavering boldness, even as he engages in sharp theological debate with Greek-speaking Jews. His powerful and persuasive witness, however, quickly incites fierce opposition, leading to a murderous plot against his life, underscoring the inherent conflict between the Gospel message and those resistant to its truth.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Acts 9:29 is situated within the broader narrative of Saul's transformation and the initial phase of his ministry. Immediately preceding this verse, Saul, having been miraculously converted on the [road to Damascus](/acts/9-1-19 "Acts 9:1-19 - Saul's Conversion"), spent a period of time in Damascus, where he astonished many by [preaching Christ in the synagogues](/acts/9-20-22 "Acts 9:20-22 - Saul Preaches in Damascus"). After escaping a plot against his life in Damascus, he journeyed to Jerusalem, where the events of this verse unfold. His arrival in Jerusalem was met with skepticism from the disciples, who initially feared him, until Barnabas vouched for him, leading to his acceptance among them ([Acts 9:26-28](/acts/9-26-28 "Acts 9:26-28 - Saul in Jerusalem")). This verse then details the specific nature of his ministry and the immediate repercussions in the capital city.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The "Grecians" mentioned in this verse are *Hellenistai* (Greek-speaking Jews), distinct from *Hebraioi* (Aramaic-speaking Jews). These Hellenists were often diaspora Jews who had returned to Jerusalem or were permanent residents, typically having their own synagogues and distinct cultural nuances. They were often more open to Greek philosophical thought but could also be fiercely zealous for the Law and Jewish traditions, making them particularly sensitive to claims about a crucified Messiah that challenged their established beliefs. Jerusalem, as the religious and political center of Judaism, was a hotbed of theological debate, and any new teaching, especially one proclaiming Jesus as the Messiah and Lord, was met with intense scrutiny and often violent rejection, as seen in the persecution of Stephen, himself a Hellenist ([Acts 6:1-15](/acts/6-1-15 "Acts 6:1-15 - The Appointment of the Seven and Stephen's Ministry")).
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the book of Acts. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Bold Witness for Christ**, demonstrating Saul's immediate and fearless proclamation of the Gospel, echoing the [apostolic boldness](/acts/4-29-31 "Acts 4:29-31 - The Disciples' Prayer for Boldness") that characterized the early church. Secondly, it powerfully illustrates the **Inevitable Opposition to the Gospel**, showing that the message of Christ, which challenges human sin and self-righteousness, often provokes hostility and persecution, a pattern seen throughout Acts, from the [persecution of the early church](/acts/8-1 "Acts 8:1 - The Persecution of the Church") to Paul's later missionary journeys. Lastly, it subtly foreshadows the theme of **Divine Preservation and Guidance**, as God's sovereign hand is at work to protect His chosen instruments for their appointed tasks, ensuring that Saul's ministry, though threatened, would not be cut short, leading to his eventual [departure from Jerusalem](/acts/9-30 "Acts 9:30 - Saul's Escape to Tarsus").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **boldly (Greek, _parrhēsiázomai'_):** This verb, derived from *parrhesia*, signifies speaking with freedom, confidence, and unreservedness. It implies a lack of fear and a willingness to speak openly and publicly, even in the face of potential danger or opposition. Saul's proclamation was not timid or hesitant but a courageous, forthright declaration of the truth of Jesus, reflecting his profound transformation and conviction.
* **disputed (Greek, _syzētéō'_):** This term means "to investigate jointly," "to discuss," "to controvert," or "to cavil." It describes a vigorous intellectual engagement, a theological debate or argument. This indicates that Saul was not merely preaching but actively engaging in reasoned discourse and refutation with the Grecians, likely within their synagogues, challenging their interpretations of scripture concerning the Messiah.
* **Grecians (Greek, _Hellēnistḗs'_):** This noun specifically refers to Hellenists or Greek-speaking Jews. These were Jews who, while adhering to the Jewish faith, were culturally influenced by Greek language and customs, often having lived in the Diaspora. Their distinct identity and often fervent adherence to the Law made them a significant group for Saul to engage, as they represented a blend of Jewish tradition and Hellenistic thought.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he spake boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus":** This clause highlights the central focus and authority of Saul's proclamation. His speaking was characterized by *parrhesia*—unreserved confidence and courage—a stark contrast to his former role as a persecutor. The phrase "in the name of the Lord Jesus" signifies that his message was not his own, but derived its authority and power from Jesus Christ Himself. It implies speaking by Jesus's commission, with His authority, and proclaiming His identity and saving work.
* **"and disputed against the Grecians":** This indicates that Saul's ministry was not merely a monologue but involved active engagement and intellectual confrontation. He entered into theological debate (*syzētéō*) with the Greek-speaking Jews, likely challenging their understanding of the Old Testament prophecies and demonstrating how Jesus fulfilled them. This disputation would have been rigorous, aiming to persuade them of Jesus's messiahship through reasoned argument and scriptural interpretation.
* **"but they went about to slay him":** This final clause reveals the immediate and violent reaction to Saul's bold proclamation and disputation. Despite his reasoned arguments and courageous witness, the Grecians' response was not intellectual acceptance but murderous intent. The conjunction "but" (G1161, *dé*) introduces a strong contrast between Saul's earnest efforts to persuade and their hardened, violent rejection, underscoring the profound spiritual opposition to the Gospel. The phrase "went about to slay him" (G2021, *epicheiréō*, "to undertake"; G337, *anairéō*, "to take away violently, murder") signifies a deliberate and concerted effort to kill him.

#### Literary Devices
Acts 9:29 employs several potent literary devices. **Narrative Irony** is prominent, as Saul, the former persecutor who "made havoc of the church" ([Acts 8:3](/acts/8-3 "Acts 8:3 - Saul Persecutes the Church")), now faces the very persecution he once inflicted. This reversal underscores the radical nature of his conversion and God's transformative power. There is also a strong **Contrast** between Saul's "bold" and reasoned "disputation" and the Grecians' violent, irrational "plot to slay him." This juxtaposition highlights the inherent conflict between the light of the Gospel and the darkness of human resistance. Furthermore, the verse serves as **Foreshadowing**, hinting at the consistent opposition and suffering that would characterize Paul's extensive missionary journeys, establishing a pattern that would define much of his future ministry as described throughout the rest of Acts.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 9:29 powerfully illustrates the enduring truth that faithful proclamation of the Gospel often elicits opposition, a theme deeply woven into the fabric of biblical history and Christian experience. Saul's experience mirrors that of the prophets before him and Jesus Himself, who faced rejection and violence for speaking God's truth. His boldness, despite the threat, underscores the Spirit-empowered courage essential for Christian witness, demonstrating that divine authority, not human strength, enables believers to stand firm in the face of hostility. This verse reminds us that the Gospel is inherently confrontational to worldly systems and sinful hearts, and its proclamation will inevitably divide, leading some to salvation and others to hardened resistance.

* [Matthew 10:22](/matthew/10-22 "Matthew 10:22 - Hated for Christ's Name")
* [John 15:18-20](/john/15-18-20 "John 15:18-20 - The World's Hatred")
* [2 Timothy 3:12](/2_timothy/3-12 "2 Timothy 3:12 - Persecution for Godliness")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 9:29 stands as a profound challenge and encouragement for believers in every age. Saul's immediate and unwavering boldness in proclaiming Jesus, even to those who had every reason to hate him (as he was formerly their ally in persecution), calls us to examine the depth of our own convictions and courage. We are reminded that sharing the Gospel is not merely an intellectual exercise but a spiritual warfare that often invites hostility. In a world increasingly resistant to absolute truth and the exclusive claims of Christ, this verse compels us to speak with conviction, not shrinking from unpopular truths, while also exercising wisdom. It teaches us that opposition is not a sign of failure but often a confirmation of faithful witness. Ultimately, it directs our trust to God's sovereign protection; just as He preserved Saul for his greater mission, He will sustain us through any trials for His purposes, empowering us to prioritize faithfulness over comfort or safety.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life are you called to speak boldly for Christ, even when it might be unpopular or challenging?**
* **How do you typically react when your faith or Christian values are met with opposition or ridicule?**
* **What does Saul's transformation and immediate boldness teach you about the power of God's grace in a believer's life?**

### FAQ
**Who were the "Grecians" that Saul disputed against, and why did they want to kill him?**

Answer: The "Grecians" (Greek, *Hellēnistḗs*) were Greek-speaking Jews, often from the Jewish diaspora, who had settled in Jerusalem or were visiting. They were distinct from the Aramaic-speaking native Jews (*Hebraioi*). While they were still Jewish, their cultural background and possibly their synagogues differed in some ways. They wanted to kill Saul because his message was profoundly offensive and blasphemous to them. Saul, a former zealous Pharisee, was now proclaiming that Jesus, whom they considered a crucified criminal, was the Messiah and Lord. This challenged their deeply held theological beliefs, their understanding of the Law, and their national identity. His arguments, backed by his intimate knowledge of the Scriptures, were likely perceived as a dangerous heresy that threatened their religious order, leading them to seek his life, much as they had sought to silence Stephen, another Hellenist Christian ([Acts 6:9-14](/acts/6-9-14 "Acts 6:9-14 - Stephen's Disputation and Accusation")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 9:29, though focusing on Saul's early ministry, profoundly points to Christ in its portrayal of suffering for the Gospel. Just as Saul was persecuted for boldly proclaiming Jesus, Jesus Himself endured ultimate opposition and death for proclaiming the truth of God's kingdom. The hatred Saul faced foreshadows the reality that "if they persecuted me, they will persecute you also" ([John 15:20](/john/15-20 "John 15:20 - Persecution of Believers")). Christ's life was a testament to speaking truth with divine authority, even when it led to His crucifixion. Saul's willingness to suffer for Jesus reflects the call for all believers to take up their cross and follow Christ ([Matthew 16:24](/matthew/16-24 "Matthew 16:24 - Take Up Your Cross")). Furthermore, the divine protection Saul experienced, though facing a murderous plot, mirrors Christ's sovereign control over all events, ensuring His purposes are fulfilled. Christ's own resurrection and ascension guarantee that His church, though persecuted, will ultimately prevail, and His messengers, like Saul, will be preserved to accomplish His mission, demonstrating the power of God over all human opposition ([Matthew 28:18-20](/matthew/28-18-20 "Matthew 28:18-20 - The Great Commission")). Thus, Saul's experience in Acts 9:29 is a powerful echo of Christ's own suffering, triumph, and the ongoing mission He empowers His followers to undertake.

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 6:1

¶ And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration.

Jude 1:9

Yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil he disputed about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him a railing accusation, but said, The Lord rebuke thee.

2 Corinthians 11:26

[In] journeyings often, [in] perils of waters, [in] perils of robbers, [in] perils by [mine own] countrymen, [in] perils by the heathen, [in] perils in the city, [in] perils in the wilderness, [in] perils in the sea, [in] perils among false brethren;

Acts 11:20

And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which, when they were come to Antioch, spake unto the Grecians, preaching the Lord Jesus.

Acts 17:17

Therefore disputed he in the synagogue with the Jews, and with the devout persons, and in the market daily with them that met with him.

Acts 18:19

And he came to Ephesus, and left them there: but he himself entered into the synagogue, and reasoned with the Jews.

Acts 19:8

¶ And he went into the synagogue, and spake boldly for the space of three months, disputing and persuading the things concerning the kingdom of God.