Commentary on Acts 22:10

Bible Verse (Acts 22:10): "And I said, What shall I do, Lord? And the Lord said unto me, Arise, and go into Damascus; and there it shall be told thee of all things which are appointed for thee to do."

Introduction

This verse captures a pivotal moment in the narrative of the Apostle Paul’s conversion and subsequent calling. The dialogue between Paul and Jesus lays the foundation for understanding the nature of divine guidance and the responsive heart of the believer. As we explore insights from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, we will seek to uncover the depth of this exchange.

Contextual Understanding

Before delving into the commentary, it is essential to grasp the context of Acts 22. Paul, after being arrested in Jerusalem, addresses a crowd, sharing his transformation from a persecutor of Christians to a fervent follower of Christ. This conversion experience reveals the sovereign work of God in choosing and commissioning individuals for His purposes.

Matthew Henry's Perspective

Henry emphasizes the humility and submission evident in Paul’s response to the Lord's voice. His question, "What shall I do, Lord?" underscores a critical aspect of true conversion—recognizing Jesus as Lord and expressing willingness to follow His will.

• Submission to Divine Authority: Henry points out that this demonstrates a complete submission to the authority of Christ, highlighting that genuine faith is marked by a readiness to act according to divine direction.
• Seeking Guidance: Paul’s inquiry reflects the believer’s desire for guidance. Henry encourages believers to similarly ask God for direction in their lives, illustrating the ongoing need for divine wisdom.

Albert Barnes' Insights

Barnes provides a detailed examination of the command given to Paul. He notes the significance of the specific instruction to "arise and go into Damascus." This directive not only marks the beginning of Paul’s journey of service but also symbolizes the transition from darkness to light.

• A Call to Action: Barnes highlights that the Lord’s command involves immediate action. Paul is called out of his previous life into a new mission. This serves as a reminder that faith is not static; it calls for active engagement in God’s work.
• Preparation for Ministry: Barnes makes a pertinent observation that God prepares His servants before they engage in ministry. The subsequent revelation and instructions awaiting Paul in Damascus signify God’s providential preparation for his apostolic role.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Clarke offers insights into the theological implications of this verse. He highlights that Paul’s encounter with Christ represents a paradigm shift not only for Paul but for the early Church at large, impacting the spread of Christianity.

• Transformation and Empowerment: Clarke notes that the act of arising and going signifies a spiritual resurrection and empowerment bestowed upon Paul. The call to Damascus serves as an initiation into Paul’s apostolic mission, underlining the transformative power of Christ in the life of a believer.
• Divine Sovereignty: Clarke emphasizes that the events surrounding Paul’s conversion illustrate God’s sovereignty in choosing individuals for service. This conveys a broader theological truth that God’s plans are often beyond human comprehension but are perfectly orchestrated.

The Interplay of Divine Will and Human Response

The interplay observed in this passage between God's directive and Paul's responsive inquiry encapsulates a central theme in Christian spiritual life: the necessity of an active relationship with God characterized by communication and obedience.

Pastors, students, and theologians are reminded that encountering God's voice should lead to a pivotal question: "What shall I do?" This is not merely an acknowledgment of God’s sovereignty but a commitment to engage in the mission He sets before us.

Implications for Believers Today

As we contemplate the lessons from Acts 22:10, several key implications emerge for contemporary believers:

• Awareness of God's Call: Like Paul, believers must be attuned to God's voice and ready to respond. This requires a posture of prayerfulness and an openness to divine leading.
• Willingness to Act: Our faith should compel us to action, as it did for Paul. Following Christ often involves stepping out in faith, even into the unknown, with assurance that God equips those He calls.
• Continuous Learning: The instruction given to Paul to await further revelation signifies the importance of discipleship and learning in the believer’s journey. We are called to grow in understanding and wisdom.

Conclusion

The profound interaction between Paul and the Lord in Acts 22:10 serves as a cornerstone for understanding the believer's life—a life marked by submission, active engagement in God's mission, and a reliance on divine guidance. By reflecting on the insights from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, we are encouraged to seek God's will actively in our lives, echoing Paul’s inquiry, and anticipating the works He has prepared for us to undertake.