Matthew Henry's Commentary

Henry draws attention to the changing fortunes of Saul. Initially, he was feared and avoided due to his reputation as a persecutor. However, upon his conversion, the brethren were alerted to the necessity of accepting him into their fellowship. This included ensuring his safety from those who might wish to harm him due to their animosity towards his past.

• Protection of the Believer: Henry emphasizes the responsibility of the Church to protect one another. The term "brethren" denotes a familial bond within the community of believers, suggesting that the Church acted both thoughtfully and prayerfully in this matter.
• Strategic Measures: The move to bring Saul to Caesarea indicates a proactive approach to avoid conflict. The church leaders understood the trepidation surrounding Saul’s transformation and sought to mitigate potential threats against him.
• Emphasis on Unity: The act of sending Saul away to Tarsus speaks to a broader unity within the early Church, as they sought not only to ensure safety for Saul but also to maintain peace within the community.

Albert Barnes' Commentary

Barnes provides further analysis regarding the geographical and cultural significance of the actions taken by the Church. He notes that Tarsus, being Saul's hometown, was a strategic place for his ministry. He argues that the brothers’ decision showcased both wisdom and foresight in the early Church's approach to missions.

• Understanding Conversion: Barnes highlights the transformative nature of Saul's conversion. While Saul may have been met with suspicion, the Church leaders recognized the authenticity of his experience, suggesting a growing theological acceptance of transformed lives.
• Missionary Identity: The sending of Saul to Tarsus marks a foundational moment in Saul’s development into Paul the Apostle. His time in Tarsus would not only be a period of personal growth but also a precursor to his missionary journeys.
• Role of the Church in Mission: Barnes stresses the importance of church endorsement and support in practical missions. The collective decision of the brethren is a model for today’s churches in how to handle emerging leaders.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Clarke elaborates on the significance of the actions taken by the disciples. He illustrates that the decision to send Saul away was not merely a matter of logistics; it was deeply entwined with the theological understanding of grace and redemption.

• Grace in Action: Clarke emphasizes that the acceptance of Saul by the brethren was an act of grace reflecting the fundamental Christian doctrine that no sinner is irredeemable. This highlights the inclusive nature of the Gospel message.
• Active Leadership: The church’s choice to send Saul to Tarsus suggests an active engagement with leadership development. Clarke points out that the early Church was not passive but actively sought to train and deploy those who were transformed by God.
• The Broader Mission of the Church: His interpretation underscores the importance of outreach. Saul’s transformed life was to serve greater purposes beyond Jerusalem, and sending him forth was a recognition of his calling.