Acts 13:12

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

Study Bible

When the proconsul saw what had happened
The term "proconsul" refers to a Roman official who governed a province. In this context, the proconsul is Sergius Paulus, a man of significant authority and influence. The Greek word for proconsul is "ἀνθύπατος" (anthypatos), indicating a high-ranking official. Historically, proconsuls were appointed by the Roman Senate and wielded considerable power. The fact that a man of such stature witnessed the events and was moved by them underscores the divine authority and power of the Gospel message. This moment highlights the intersection of divine intervention and human authority, demonstrating that God's work transcends social and political boundaries.

he believed
The Greek word for "believed" is "ἐπίστευσεν" (episteusen), which implies a deep, personal conviction and trust. This belief is not merely intellectual assent but a heartfelt acceptance of the truth of the Gospel. The proconsul's belief signifies a transformative encounter with the divine, illustrating the power of the Holy Spirit to penetrate even the most hardened hearts. In a broader scriptural context, belief is often the catalyst for salvation, as seen in John 3:16, where belief in Jesus is linked to eternal life. This moment in Acts serves as a testament to the life-changing power of faith in Christ.

for he was astonished
The word "astonished" comes from the Greek "ἐκπλήσσω" (ekplēssō), which conveys a sense of being overwhelmed with amazement or wonder. This astonishment is not merely at the miraculous event itself but at the profound truth and authority of the teaching about the Lord. The proconsul's reaction reflects the common response to the Gospel throughout Acts, where the message of Christ often leaves listeners in awe. This astonishment is a divine tool that opens hearts to the truth, breaking down barriers of skepticism and disbelief.

at the teaching about the Lord
The phrase "teaching about the Lord" emphasizes the content and authority of the message delivered by Paul and Barnabas. The Greek word for "teaching" is "διδαχή" (didachē), which refers to instruction or doctrine. This teaching is centered on the Lord Jesus Christ, His life, death, and resurrection, and the salvation He offers. The focus on "the Lord" underscores the centrality of Christ in the apostolic message. Historically, the early church's teaching was rooted in the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the revelation of Jesus as the Messiah. This teaching, empowered by the Holy Spirit, is what ultimately leads to the proconsul's belief, demonstrating the transformative power of the Gospel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Proconsul Sergius Paulus
A Roman official in Cyprus who is described as an intelligent man. He is significant for his openness to the Gospel and his eventual belief after witnessing a miracle.

2. Paul (formerly Saul)
One of the apostles, who, along with Barnabas, was on a missionary journey. Paul played a key role in preaching the Gospel and performing the miracle that led to the proconsul's belief.

3. Barnabas
A companion of Paul on the missionary journey. He was instrumental in spreading the Gospel alongside Paul.

4. Elymas the Sorcerer (Bar-Jesus)
A false prophet and magician who opposed Paul and Barnabas, attempting to turn the proconsul away from the faith. His temporary blinding was the miracle that led to the proconsul's belief.

5. Cyprus
An island in the Mediterranean Sea where this event took place. It was the first stop on Paul and Barnabas's missionary journey.

Teaching Points

The Power of the Gospel
The Gospel message is powerful and transformative, capable of reaching even those in high positions of authority.

Miracles as a Testimony
Miracles can serve as a powerful testimony to the truth of the Gospel, leading others to faith.

Opposition to the Gospel
Expect opposition when spreading the Gospel, but trust in God's power to overcome it.

The Role of Faith and Reason
Sergius Paulus was described as intelligent, showing that faith and reason can coexist and that the Gospel appeals to both the heart and the mind.

God's Sovereignty in Salvation
God orchestrates events, such as the blinding of Elymas, to bring about His purposes and lead people to faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the conversion of Sergius Paulus demonstrate the power of the Gospel to reach all people, regardless of their social status or background?

2. In what ways can we expect to encounter opposition when sharing our faith, and how can we prepare to respond to it?

3. How do miracles in the Bible serve as a testimony to God's power, and how should we view miracles today in the context of sharing the Gospel?

4. What role does reason play in our faith journey, and how can we engage both the heart and mind when discussing our beliefs with others?

5. How can we trust in God's sovereignty when facing challenges in our efforts to share the Gospel, and what examples from Scripture can encourage us in this trust?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 9:3-18
Paul's own conversion experience, which also involved a miraculous event (his temporary blindness and subsequent healing), parallels the proconsul's conversion.

Exodus 7:11-12
The opposition of Elymas can be compared to the magicians of Egypt who opposed Moses, showing a pattern of God's power overcoming falsehood.

Matthew 28:19-20
The Great Commission, which Paul and Barnabas were fulfilling by spreading the Gospel to all nations, including the Gentiles like Sergius Paulus.