Bible Verse Explanation: Acts 9:6

Verse: "And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do." (Acts 9:6)

Understanding Acts 9:6

The meaning of this significant verse can be explored through biblical commentaries and insights, offering a deeper understanding of its context and implications. This passage captures the transformative moment experienced by Saul of Tarsus, later known as Paul, who encounters Jesus on the road to Damascus.

Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

• Matthew Henry’s Commentary

  Henry emphasizes the profound alteration that Saul undergoes at this moment. The trembling and astonishment highlight Saul's sudden realization of his sinfulness in persecuting Christians and his recognition of Jesus as the risen Lord. This denotes a pivotal instance of divine intervention where Saul submits to the authority of Christ, seeking guidance on what to do next.

• Albert Barnes' Notes

  Barnes points out that Saul’s question, "Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?" indicates his immediate desire for direction and purpose after his encounter with Christ. This longing for guidance reflects the transformative power of an encounter with the divine, illustrating how such moments compel individuals to seek a new path in alignment with God’s will.

• Adam Clarke’s Commentary

  Clarke discusses the directive given by Jesus, suggesting that the command to "Arise, and go into the city" symbolizes the beginning of Saul's new mission. This call to action marks a transition from his past as a persecutor to becoming a key figure in spreading the Gospel. Clarke highlights this as an important lesson in obedience and faith in God's plan for one's life.

Biblical Exegesis

The historical context of Acts 9:6 is crucial for understanding its full significance. This event occurs shortly after the resurrection of Jesus, during a time of intense persecution of Christians. Saul’s fervent commitment to arresting believers is dramatically interrupted by a heavenly vision, providing a stark backdrop to his transformation.

Through this act, God demonstrates His sovereignty and grace, as He chooses an unlikely candidate to be a vessel for the Gospel. The significance of this passage lies in the concept of repentance and the transformative nature of faith, underscoring that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace.

Application in Daily Life

Acts 9:6 invites believers to reflect on their own lives. It challenges them to consider how they seek God’s guidance and direction in their personal journeys. The question, "What wilt thou have me to do?" serves as an important reminder that followers of Christ are called to be responsive and obedient to His will.

Bibliographical Relevance

This verse can also be correlated with several other scriptural references that echo similar themes:

• John 10:27: "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me."
• Romans 12:1-2: Discusses the importance of presenting oneself as a living sacrifice and discerning God’s will.
• Philippians 3:14: "I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus."

Conclusion

The journey of Saul, as encapsulated in Acts 9:6, exemplifies the core elements of conversion, divine calling, and the transformative power of faith in Jesus Christ. For those exploring Bible verse meanings, this passage shines a light on understanding the significance of personal encounters with God and the subsequent commitment to carry out His will. Through both historical context and theological insight, believers are encouraged to ask themselves how they can respond similarly to God's call in their lives.