What is the meaning of Acts 9:28? So Saul stayed with them - Saul’s acceptance into the fellowship of believers in Jerusalem signals a clear work of God’s grace. Just days earlier, these same disciples feared him (Acts 9:26), yet now they welcome him. - This mirrors Barnabas’s earlier role at Damascus—he bridges distrust and testifies to the reality of Saul’s conversion (Acts 9:27). - Similar hospitality is urged throughout Scripture: believers are to receive one another as Christ received us (Romans 15:7) and to show brotherly love (Hebrews 13:1–2). - Saul’s remaining “with them” underscores the importance of community for every new believer (Acts 2:42). Discipleship thrives in fellowship. moving about freely in Jerusalem - The phrase highlights God’s protection. The city where Saul once hunted Christians is now a field for open ministry. Psalm 27:1 reminds us, “The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?” - “Freely” implies unhindered movement—no chains, no secrecy. Just as Peter walked out of prison later in Acts 12:7–10, Saul moves under divine guardianship. - Notice the reversal: earlier, believers fled Jerusalem because of Saul’s persecution (Acts 8:1), but now Saul walks the same streets fearlessly. Only the risen Christ can bring that turnaround. - This freedom exemplifies the promise of Acts 1:8—witnesses in Jerusalem first—fulfilled even in former enemies. and speaking boldly in the name of the Lord - Bold speech marks Spirit-filled witness (Acts 4:31). Saul’s courage is not natural bravado but empowerment from the Holy Spirit (2 Timothy 1:7). - “In the name of the Lord” shows the authority source. Like Peter and John who healed “in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth” (Acts 3:6), Saul proclaims under Christ’s lordship. - Boldness means clarity and conviction, not harshness. Colossians 4:3–4 illustrates this balance—open doors and clear speech. - By preaching Jesus openly in Jerusalem, Saul aligns with earlier apostolic testimony (Acts 5:28–29). The same gospel, one unified mission. summary Acts 9:28 paints a vivid portrait of transformation: the former persecutor now abides in Christian fellowship, enjoys God-given freedom in the very city he once terrorized, and proclaims Jesus with fearless conviction. The verse confirms the power of Christ to change lives, protect His servants, and advance His gospel through bold, Spirit-empowered witness. |
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