Acts 13:12

Then the deputy, when he saw what was done, believed, being astonished at the doctrine of the Lord.

Then {G5119} the deputy {G446}, when he saw {G1492} what was done {G1096}, believed {G4100}, being astonished {G1605} at {G1909} the doctrine {G1322} of the Lord {G2962}.

Then, on seeing what had happened, the governor trusted, astounded by the teaching about the Lord.

When the proconsul saw what had happened, he believed, for he was astonished at the teaching about the Lord.

Then the proconsul, when he saw what was done, believed, being astonished at the teaching of the Lord.

Commentary

Acts 13:12 describes a pivotal moment in the early missionary journey of Paul and Barnabas in Paphos, Cyprus. After Paul confronts and temporarily blinds Elymas the sorcerer (Bar-Jesus), the Roman proconsul, Sergius Paulus, witnesses this divine intervention. The verse states that upon seeing "what was done," the deputy "believed, being astonished at the doctrine of the Lord." This marks a significant conversion, demonstrating the power of God's word and validating the apostles' ministry.

Historical and Cultural Context

This event takes place in Paphos, the capital of Cyprus, a significant Roman province. Sergius Paulus, the proconsul of Cyprus, was a man of intelligence and influence, described as "prudent" (Acts 13:7 KJV). His position as a Roman deputy (Greek: anthypatos, meaning proconsul) made his conversion particularly impactful, symbolizing the Gospel's reach into the highest levels of Roman society. The confrontation with Elymas, a Jewish sorcerer who opposed the apostles, set the stage for a dramatic display of divine power. The miraculous sign, specifically the temporary blindness of Elymas the sorcerer, served as undeniable proof of God's authority over spiritual darkness and deception, paving the way for Sergius Paulus's faith.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Validation of the Gospel: The blinding of Elymas was not merely a display of power but a sign confirming the truth of the "doctrine of the Lord." This event highlights how God often confirms His word with accompanying signs, providing tangible evidence of His presence and authority.
  • Triumph Over Spiritual Opposition: The narrative demonstrates the superiority of God's power over occult practices and demonic influence. Elymas, a servant of Satan, is directly confronted and defeated, showcasing the Gospel's ability to overcome all forms of spiritual darkness.
  • God's Sovereignty in Conversion: Sergius Paulus's belief underscores that God can reach anyone, regardless of their social standing or background. His astonishment at the "doctrine of the Lord" suggests a profound spiritual conviction, not just intellectual assent.
  • The Power of the Word: While a miracle prompted belief, it was the "doctrine of the Lord" (the Gospel message) that Sergius Paulus ultimately embraced. This emphasizes the transformative power of God's revealed truth, which Paul calls the power of God unto salvation.

Linguistic Insights

  • The term "deputy" translates the Greek word anthypatos (ἀνθύπατος), which accurately refers to a proconsul, a governor of a Roman senatorial province. This detail aligns perfectly with historical knowledge of Roman administration in Cyprus.
  • "Astonished" comes from the Greek ekplesso (ἐκπλήσσω), meaning to be struck out of one's senses, to be utterly amazed or dumbfounded. It conveys a profound sense of wonder and awe, indicating that Sergius Paulus's reaction was not just intellectual surprise but a deep, emotional, and spiritual impact.
  • "Doctrine" is from the Greek didachē (διδαχή), which means teaching or instruction. It refers to the core message of the Gospel, the teachings about Jesus Christ, His death, resurrection, and the way of salvation.

Practical Application

Acts 13:12 offers several insights for believers today. Firstly, it reminds us that God can use various means, including powerful demonstrations, to draw people to Himself. While miraculous signs may not be as common today, the core message of the Gospel remains powerful. Secondly, the passage encourages boldness in proclaiming the "doctrine of the Lord," even in the face of opposition. Just as Paul confronted Elymas, we are called to stand firm in truth. Finally, Sergius Paulus's conversion serves as an encouragement that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace, and the Gospel has the power to transform hearts across all societal strata.

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Cross-References

  • 2 Corinthians 10:4 (5 votes)

    (For the weapons of our warfare [are] not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)

  • 2 Corinthians 10:5 (5 votes)

    Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;

  • Acts 13:7 (4 votes)

    Which was with the deputy of the country, Sergius Paulus, a prudent man; who called for Barnabas and Saul, and desired to hear the word of God.

  • Luke 4:22 (3 votes)

    And all bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth. And they said, Is not this Joseph's son?

  • Acts 19:7 (2 votes)

    And all the men were about twelve.

  • Acts 6:10 (2 votes)

    And they were not able to resist the wisdom and the spirit by which he spake.

  • Matthew 27:54 (2 votes)

    Now when the centurion, and they that were with him, watching Jesus, saw the earthquake, and those things that were done, they feared greatly, saying, Truly this was the Son of God.