Paul's Defense: His Conversion and Mission
Acts 21:37-22:21
Acts.21.37 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- Μελλων: PART,pres,nom,sg,m
- τε: CONJ
- εισαγεσθαι: VERB,pres,mid-pass,inf
- εις: PREP
- την: ART,acc,sg,f
- παρεμβολην: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- Παυλος: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- λεγει: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- τω: ART,dat,sg,m
- χιλιαρχω·Ει: NOUN,dat,sg,m
- εξεστιν: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- μοι: PRON,dat,sg,1
- ειπειν: VERB,aor,act,inf
- τι: PRON,int,nom,sg,n
- προς: PREP
- σε: PRON,acc,sg,2
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- δε: CONJ
- εφη·Ελληνιστι: VERB,impf,act,ind,3,sg
- γινωσκεις: VERB,pres,act,ind,2,sg
Parallels
- Acts 21:40 (structural): Immediately follows the same scene: Paul requests to speak and then addresses the crowd in Hebrew/Aramaic—direct continuation of the interaction with the commander and the crowd.
- Acts 22:1 (quotation): Paul's ensuing speech begins in Aramaic/Hebrew ('Brothers and fathers, listen to my defense'), the actual address that the permission in 21:37 allows him to make.
- Acts 22:25-29 (thematic): Interaction with Roman officers over legal rights: Paul's status as a Roman citizen changes how the commander and centurion treat him—echoes the authority dynamics in 21:37–38.
- Acts 26:24-29 (thematic): Paul's pattern of asking to address officials and defending himself before Roman or Jewish authorities (here before Festus and Agrippa) parallels his request to the commander to speak in 21:37.
Alternative generated candidates
- As the commander was about to bring him into the barracks, Paul said to him, “May I say something to you?”
- When they heard that he spoke to them in the Hebrew tongue, they became even more quiet.
Acts.21.38 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ουκ: PART,neg
- αρα: PART
- συ: PRON,nom,sg,2
- ει: VERB,pres,act,ind,2,sg
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- Αιγυπτιος: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- προ: PREP
- τουτων: PRON,gen,pl,m
- των: ART,gen,pl,m
- ημερων: NOUN,gen,pl,f
- αναστατωσας: VERB,aor,act,part,nom,sg,m
- και: CONJ
- εξαγαγων: PART,aor,act,nom,sg,m
- εις: PREP
- την: ART,acc,sg,f
- ερημον: NOUN,acc,sg,fem
- τους: ART,acc,pl,m
- τετρακισχιλιους: NUM,acc,pl,m
- ανδρας: NOUN,acc,pl,m
- των: ART,gen,pl,m
- σικαριων: NOUN,gen,pl,m
Parallels
- Acts 5:36–37 (thematic): Gamaliel cites earlier Jewish rebel leaders (Theudas, Judas the Galilean) as examples of failed insurrections—parallels Acts 21:38’s reference to an Egyptian insurgent who led a band of fighters.
- Acts 17:6 (verbal): Uses similar language about causing a widespread disturbance ('turned the world upside down' / 'stirred up'), linking the notion of disruptive movements to the charge against the Egyptian in 21:38.
- Acts 21:30 (structural): Immediate narrative context: the city is aroused and a riot ensues over accusations against Paul—this situational uproar echoes the idea of prior militants who 'stirred up' people into the wilderness.
- Acts 23:10 (thematic): Describes a violent plot and mob action against Paul in the Jerusalem council scene; parallels Acts 21:38 thematically in depicting popular violence and paramilitary agitation within Jewish society.
Alternative generated candidates
- The commander answered, “Do you know Greek?”
- And Paul said, "Brothers and fathers, listen to the defense I now make before you."
Acts.21.39 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ειπεν: VERB,aor,act,ind,3,sg
- δε: CONJ
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- Παυλος·Εγω: NOUN,nom,sg,m + PRON,nom,sg,1
- ανθρωπος: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- μεν: PART
- ειμι: VERB,pres,act,ind,1,sg
- Ιουδαιος: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- Ταρσευς: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- της: ART,gen,sg,f
- Κιλικιας: NOUN,gen,sg,f
- ουκ: PART,neg
- ασημου: ADJ,gen,sg,f
- πολεως: NOUN,gen,sg,f
- πολιτης·δεομαι: NOUN,nom,sg,m + VERB,pres,mid,ind,1,sg
- δε: CONJ
- σου: PRON,gen,sg,2
- επιτρεψον: VERB,aor,act,imp,2,sg
- μοι: PRON,dat,sg,1
- λαλησαι: VERB,aor,act,inf
- προς: PREP
- τον: ART,acc,sg,m
- λαον: NOUN,acc,sg,m
Parallels
- Acts 22:3 (verbal): Paul reiterates the same biographical claim—born in Tarsus of Cilicia—when beginning his defense to the crowd (direct continuation of his self-identification).
- Acts 21:40 (structural): Immediate narrative continuation: the commander grants Paul permission to speak and Paul addresses the people—this verse records the fulfillment of his request to speak.
- Acts 22:1 (verbal): The opening of the speech Paul requested to deliver ('Brothers and fathers, hear my defense'), the address he gains permission to make in 21:39.
- Acts 22:24-29 (thematic): Accounts of Paul asserting legal/ceremonial protections tied to his status (Roman citizenship)—related to 21:39’s emphasis on origin and civic standing as grounds for respectful treatment and legal rights.
- Acts 16:37-39 (thematic): Earlier instance where Paul invokes Roman citizenship to protest mistreatment by authorities—parallels the theme of asserting civic identity and rights found in 21:39.
Alternative generated candidates
- And as Paul stood on the stairs he motioned to the people; and when there was a great silence he spoke to them in the Hebrew tongue:
- They drew near and listened intently as he began to speak.
Acts.21.40 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- επιτρεψαντος: VERB,aor,act,ptc,gen,m,sg
- δε: CONJ
- αυτου: PRON,gen,sg,m
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- Παυλος: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- εστως: PART,perf,act,nom,sg,m
- επι: PREP
- των: ART,gen,pl,m
- αναβαθμων: NOUN,gen,pl,m
- κατεσεισε: VERB,aor,act,ind,3,sg
- τη: ART,dat,sg,f
- χειρι: NOUN,dat,sg,fem
- τω: ART,dat,sg,m
- λαω: NOUN,dat,sg,m
- πολλης: ADJ,gen,sg,f
- δε: CONJ
- σιγης: NOUN,gen,sg,f
- γενομενης: VERB,aor,mid,part,gen,sg,f
- προσεφωνησεν: VERB,aor,act,ind,3,sg
- τη: ART,dat,sg,f
- Εβραιδι: ADJ,dat,sg,f
- διαλεκτω: NOUN,dat,sg,f
- λεγων: VERB,pres,act,part,nom,m,sg
Parallels
- Acts 22:1-2 (quotation): Direct continuation of the same episode — Paul speaks to the crowd 'in the Hebrew dialect' and begins his defense (the immediate speech that follows v.21:40).
- Acts 26:1-29 (thematic): Paul delivers a formal defense before authorities (Festus and Agrippa). Parallels in situation and rhetorical strategy: Paul recounts his conversion and mission to a largely Jewish/Roman audience.
- Acts 7:2-53 (thematic): Stephen 'stands up' and gives an extended address to Jewish leaders, recounting Israel's history and defending his witness — a close thematic parallel in form and audience to Paul's speech begun in 21:40.
- Acts 21:37-39 (structural): Immediate context: the preceding verses record the tribune's intervention, Paul's request to speak, and his being granted permission—this sets the stage for his standing on the steps and addressing the people in their own language.
Alternative generated candidates
- “Brothers and fathers, hear the defense which I now make before you.”
- When there was a great hush he continued, preparing to tell them his story.
Acts.22.1 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- Ανδρες: NOUN,voc,pl,m
- αδελφοι: NOUN,nom,pl,m
- και: CONJ
- πατερες: NOUN,nom,pl,m
- ακουσατε: VERB,aor,act,imp,2,pl
- μου: PRON,gen,sg,1
- της: ART,gen,sg,f
- προς: PREP
- υμας: PRON,acc,pl,2
- νυνι: ADV
- απολογιας: NOUN,gen,sg,f
Parallels
- Acts 26:1-3 (structural): Paul opens another extended courtroom-style apologia before Agrippa; parallels in purpose and structure (a formal personal defense and narrative of his conversion).
- Acts 24:10-21 (structural): Paul’s defense before Governor Felix—another episodic speech in Acts where Paul responds to accusations by recounting events and motives, similar setting and rhetorical function.
- Acts 13:16 (verbal): Paul’s synagogue address begins with a direct vocative appeal (‘Men of Israel…,’ ‘give audience’), comparable verbal strategy of calling listeners to hear an important defense/sermon.
- 1 Peter 3:15 (thematic): Exhortation to ‘always be ready to give a defense (apologia) to anyone who asks’ echoes the genre and theological justification for Paul’s formal defense (note shared key term and function).
Alternative generated candidates
- When they heard that he addressed them in Hebrew, they were even more quiet; and he said,
- Brothers and fathers, hear my defense which I now make before you.
Acts.22.2 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- Ακουσαντες: VERB,aor,act,ptc,nom,pl,m
- δε: CONJ
- οτι: CONJ
- τη: ART,dat,sg,f
- Εβραιδι: ADJ,dat,sg,f
- διαλεκτω: NOUN,dat,sg,f
- προσεφωνει: VERB,impf,act,ind,3,sg
- αυτοις: PRO,dat,pl,3
- μαλλον: ADV
- παρεσχον: VERB,aor,act,ind,3,pl
- ησυχιαν: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- και: CONJ
- φησιν·: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
Parallels
- Acts 9:3-9 (verbal): The original narrative of Paul's Damascus-road encounter (light from heaven, voice from Jesus, temporary blindness) that Acts 22 immediately recounts in Paul’s own defense; Acts 22 repeats and expands these details.
- Acts 26:12-18 (verbal): Paul’s later defense before Agrippa contains a parallel retelling of the same conversion-commission episode, with many of the same elements and wording as his speech in Acts 22.
- Galatians 1:11-17 (thematic): Paul’s autobiographical account of his call and early revelation to the Gentiles echoes the themes of divine revelation and separation from former ways that he emphasizes in his Acts speeches.
- Acts 21:40 (structural): In some versification traditions the note that Paul spoke to the crowd in the Hebrew/Aramaic dialect (the clause found in Acts 22:2) appears here—a textual/structural parallel highlighting the same scene and the crowd’s resulting silence.
Alternative generated candidates
- “Brothers and fathers, listen to my defense.”
- When they heard him speak to them in the Hebrew tongue, they were silent. And he said,
Acts.22.3 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- Εγω: PRON,nom,sg,1
- ειμι: VERB,pres,act,ind,1,sg
- ανηρ: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- Ιουδαιος: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- γεγεννημενος: PART,perf,pass,nom,sg,m
- εν: PREP
- Ταρσω: NOUN,dat,sg,m
- της: ART,gen,sg,f
- Κιλικιας: NOUN,gen,sg,f
- ανατεθραμμενος: PART,perf,pass,nom,sg,m
- δε: CONJ
- εν: PREP
- τη: ART,dat,sg,f
- πολει: NOUN,dat,sg,f
- ταυτη: PRO,dat,sg,f
- παρα: PREP
- τους: ART,acc,pl,m
- ποδας: NOUN,acc,pl,m
- Γαμαλιηλ: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- πεπαιδευμενος: PART,perf,pass,nom,sg,m
- κατα: PREP
- ακριβειαν: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- του: ART,gen,sg,n
- πατρωου: ADJ,gen,sg,m
- νομου: NOUN,gen,sg,m
- ζηλωτης: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- υπαρχων: VERB,pres,act,part,nom,sg,m
- του: ART,gen,sg,n
- θεου: NOUN,gen,sg,m
- καθως: CONJ
- παντες: ADJ,nom,pl,m
- υμεις: PRON,nom,pl,2
- εστε: VERB,pres,act,ind,2,pl
- σημερον: ADV
Parallels
- Acts 26:4-5 (verbal): Almost word‑for‑word repetition of Paul’s self‑introduction (born in Tarsus of Cilicia; brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel; taught according to the strictness of the law; zealous for God).
- Philippians 3:5 (thematic): Paul’s claim to Jewish credentials and strict observance (’a Hebrew of Hebrews; as to the law a Pharisee’) parallels the emphasis here on upbringing, legal training, and zeal for God.
- Galatians 1:13-14 (thematic): Paul’s account of his former life in Judaism—persecuting the church and advancing in Judaism, being exceedingly zealous for the traditions of his fathers—echoes the same self‑presentation of zealousness and strict legal formation.
- Acts 23:6 (thematic): Paul’s declaration ’I am a Pharisee, a son of Pharisees’ and appeal to hope in the resurrection invokes the same Pharisaic/Jewish identity and legal background asserted in Acts 22:3.
Alternative generated candidates
- “I am indeed a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but brought up in this city; I was instructed at the feet of Gamaliel according to the strict manner of the law of our fathers, being zealous for God as you all are today.
- "I am a man who is a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but brought up in this city; I was instructed at the feet of Gamaliel, taught according to the strict manner of the law of our fathers, being zealous for God as you all are this day.
Acts.22.4 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ος: PRON,nom,sg,m
- ταυτην: PRON,acc,sg,f
- την: ART,acc,sg,f
- οδον: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- εδιωξα: VERB,aor,act,ind,1,sg
- αχρι: PREP
- θανατου: NOUN,gen,sg,m
- δεσμευων: VERB,pres,act,part,nom,sg,m
- και: CONJ
- παραδιδους: VERB,pres,act,ptc,nom,sg,m
- εις: PREP
- φυλακας: NOUN,acc,pl,f
- ανδρας: NOUN,acc,pl,m
- τε: CONJ
- και: CONJ
- γυναικας: NOUN,acc,pl,f
Parallels
- Acts 9:1-2 (thematic): Narrative account immediately before Paul's conversion describing him as breathing threats and obtaining letters to arrest followers of 'the Way'—same historical action of persecuting the movement.
- Acts 26:9-11 (quotation): Paul's own later defense recounts persecutions 'I persecuted this Way to the death, binding and delivering to prisons,' repeating the same claims and language from his conversion testimony.
- Acts 8:3 (thematic): Describes Saul as ravaging the church, entering houses, and committing believers to prison—parallel description of his violent persecution of Christians.
- Galatians 1:13 (verbal): Paul states 'I persecuted the church of God'—a concise, verbal parallel to Acts' claim that he persecuted 'this Way' and delivered people to prison.
- Philippians 3:6 (allusion): Paul's autobiography labels him a zealous persecutor of the church under the law—an allusive summary of the same persecuting activity described in Acts 22:4.
Alternative generated candidates
- I persecuted this Way to the death, binding and delivering into prisons both men and women.
- I persecuted this Way to death, binding and delivering into prisons both men and women.
Acts.22.5 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ως: ADV
- και: CONJ
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- αρχιερευς: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- μαρτυρει: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- μοι: PRON,dat,sg,1
- και: CONJ
- παν: ADJ,nom,sg,n
- το: ART,acc,sg,n
- πρεσβυτεριον·παρ᾽ων: NOUN,nom,sg,neut
- και: CONJ
- επιστολας: NOUN,acc,pl,f
- δεξαμενος: VERB,aor,mid,ptc,nom,sg,m
- προς: PREP
- τους: ART,acc,pl,m
- αδελφους: NOUN,acc,pl,m
- εις: PREP
- Δαμασκον: NOUN,acc,sg,m
- επορευομην: VERB,impf,mid,ind,1,sg
- αξων: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- και: CONJ
- τους: ART,acc,pl,m
- εκεισε: ADV
- οντας: PART,pres,act,acc,pl,m
- δεδεμενους: PART,perf,pass,acc,pl,m
- εις: PREP
- Ιερουσαλημ: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- ινα: CONJ
- τιμωρηθωσιν: VERB,aor,pas,subj,3,pl
Parallels
- Acts 9:1-2 (verbal): Lukan narrative of the same episode: Saul receives letters from the high priest and sets out for Damascus with authority to arrest Christians—essentially the same facts recounted in Acts 22:5.
- Acts 26:10-11 (verbal): Paul's account before Agrippa repeats the motif of obtaining authority/letters and imprisoning believers, including binding and delivering them to the synagogues or prisons—parallel language and theme.
- Acts 8:3 (thematic): Early summary of Saul's persecution of the church ('ravaging the church, entering house after house, committing men and women to prison'), thematically parallel to the actions described in 22:5.
- Galatians 1:13-14 (thematic): Paul's autobiographical claim about formerly persecuting the church and advancing in Judaism echoes the same characterization of his pre-conversion activity and intent to punish believers.
- Acts 22:4 (structural): Immediate context within Paul's speech: the preceding verse describes his persecution of Christians and consenting to Stephen's death, directly connecting to the statement about receiving letters and going to Damascus in v.5.
Alternative generated candidates
- As the high priest and the whole council can testify, I even received letters from them to my own brethren, and I journeyed to Damascus to bring those there who were bound to Jerusalem to be punished.
- As also the high priest and the whole council can bear me witness; from them I received letters to the brethren, and I journeyed to Damascus to bring those there who were bound to Jerusalem for punishment.
Acts.22.6 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- Εγενετο: VERB,aor,mid,ind,3,sg
- δε: CONJ
- μοι: PRON,dat,sg,1
- πορευομενω: PART,pres,mid,dat,sg,m
- και: CONJ
- εγγιζοντι: PART,pres,act,dat,sg,m
- τη: ART,dat,sg,f
- Δαμασκω: PROPN,dat,sg,f
- περι: PREP
- μεσημβριαν: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- εξαιφνης: ADV
- εκ: PREP
- του: ART,gen,sg,n
- ουρανου: NOUN,gen,sg,masc
- περιαστραψαι: VERB,aor,act,inf
- φως: NOUN,acc,sg,n
- ικανον: ADJ,acc,sg,n
- περι: PREP
- εμε: PRON,acc,sg,1
Parallels
- Acts 9:3 (verbal): Luke's earlier narrative of Paul's Damascus-road experience; nearly identical description of a sudden light from heaven surrounding him.
- Acts 26:13 (verbal): Paul's account before Agrippa recounts the same heavenly light (even described as surpassing the brightness of the sun) and related details—another retelling of the same event.
- Exodus 34:29 (thematic): Moses' face shines after an encounter with God—parallel motif of divine radiance marking anophany/transformative encounter with the Lord.
- Luke 9:29 (thematic): The Transfiguration describes a dazzling heavenly brightness revealing divine glory; thematically parallels the use of heavenly light to disclose God's presence.
Alternative generated candidates
- “It happened, as I was on my way and drew near Damascus about noon, that suddenly a great light from heaven shone around me.
- While I was on the way, about noon, it happened that a great light from heaven suddenly shone around me.
Acts.22.7 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- επεσα: VERB,aor,act,ind,1,sg
- τε: CONJ
- εις: PREP
- το: ART,acc,sg,n
- εδαφος: NOUN,acc,sg,n
- και: CONJ
- ηκουσα: VERB,aor,act,ind,1,sg
- φωνης: NOUN,gen,sg,f
- λεγουσης: PART,pres,act,gen,sg,f
- μοι·Σαουλ: PRON,dat,sg
- Σαουλ: NOUN,voc,sg,m
- τι: PRON,int,nom,sg,n
- με: PRON,acc,sg,1
- διωκεις: VERB,pres,act,ind,2,sg
Parallels
- Acts 9:4-5 (quotation): Luke's earlier narrative of the Damascus-road appearance: the voice addresses Saul with the same words, 'Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?'. (Direct verbal parallel.)
- Acts 26:14 (quotation): Paul's own retelling before Agrippa uses the same phrase and context—hearing a heavenly voice repeat his name and ask why he persecutes Jesus. (Another direct quotation of the vision.)
- 1 Samuel 3:4 (verbal): The repeated vocative ('Samuel! Samuel!') used when God calls a servant parallels the doubled-name address 'Saul, Saul,' as a biblical device for divine calling and urgent summons.
- Matthew 25:40 (thematic): Jesus' identification with his followers ('inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me') explains the theological basis for the voice's charge that persecuting Christians is persecuting Christ.
- Galatians 1:13-16 (thematic): Paul's own summary of formerly persecuting the church and being called by revelation from Christ echoes and corroborates the Acts account—emphasizing divine intervention transforming his mission.
Alternative generated candidates
- I fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to me, ‘Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?’
- And I fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to me, "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me? It is hard for you to kick against the goads.'"
Acts.22.8 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- εγω: PRON,nom,sg,1
- δε: CONJ
- απεκριθην·Τις: VERB,aor,mid,ind,1,sg
- ει: VERB,pres,act,ind,2,sg
- κυριε: NOUN,voc,sg,m
- ειπεν: VERB,aor,act,ind,3,sg
- τε: CONJ
- προς: PREP
- εμε·Εγω: PRON,acc,sg,1
- ειμι: VERB,pres,act,ind,1,sg
- Ιησους: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- Ναζωραιος: ADJ,nom,sg,m
- ον: PART,pres,act,nom,sg,m
- συ: PRON,nom,sg,2
- διωκεις: VERB,pres,act,ind,2,sg
Parallels
- Acts 9:5 (quotation): Earlier account of Paul's conversion that records the same dialogue—Saul asks 'Who are you, Lord?' and is answered 'I am Jesus...' (essentially verbatim).
- Acts 26:15 (quotation): Paul's later retelling before Agrippa reproduces the same heavenly address and identification ('I am Jesus of Nazareth')—a parallel recounting of the same spoken revelation.
- John 18:5-6 (verbal): Jesus uses the self-identifying formula 'I am' (ἐγώ εἰμι) when questioned, and his declaration elicits a dramatic reaction; parallels in the authoritative, revelatory use of 'I am' to disclose identity.
- Matthew 25:40 (thematic): Thematic parallel: Jesus identifies himself with his followers—'inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these my brethren, you did it to me'—so persecuting Christians is presented as persecuting Jesus.
Alternative generated candidates
- And I answered, ‘Who are you, Lord?’ And He said to me, ‘I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom you are persecuting.’
- And I said, "Who are you, Lord?" And he said to me, "I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom you persecute."
Acts.22.9 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- οι: ART,nom,pl,m
- δε: CONJ
- συν: PREP
- εμοι: PRON,dat,sg,1
- οντες: VERB,pres,act,part,nom,pl,m
- το: ART,acc,sg,n
- μεν: PART
- φως: NOUN,acc,sg,n
- εθεασαντο: VERB,aor,mid,ind,3,sg
- την: ART,acc,sg,f
- δε: CONJ
- φωνην: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- ουκ: PART,neg
- ηκουσαν: VERB,aor,act,ind,3,pl
- του: ART,gen,sg,n
- λαλουντος: VERB,pres,act,part,gen,sg,masc
- μοι: PRON,dat,sg,1
Parallels
- Acts 9:7 (verbal): Parallel account of Paul's Damascus-road vision in the earlier narrative; companions likewise see the light but do not hear the voice (same event, similar wording).
- Acts 26:14 (quotation): Paul's third retelling before Agrippa repeats the line almost verbatim—companions saw the light but did not understand/hear the voice (direct verbal parallel).
- Acts 22:6 (structural): Immediate context earlier in Paul's speech describing the same heavenly light and voice; this verse sets up the contrast between Paul's experience and that of his companions.
- Acts 22:11 (thematic): Follow-up detail in the same speech: companions saw the light and led Paul into Damascus, while Paul himself was struck blind—underscores differing sensory experiences among those present.
Alternative generated candidates
- Those who were with me indeed saw the light, but they did not hear the voice of the One who spoke to me.
- Those who were with me saw the light indeed, but did not understand the voice of him who spoke to me.
Acts.22.10 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ειπον: VERB,aor,act,ind,1,sg
- δε·Τι: PART,interrog
- ποιησω: VERB,fut,act,ind,1,sg
- κυριε: NOUN,voc,sg,m
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- δε: CONJ
- κυριος: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- ειπεν: VERB,aor,act,ind,3,sg
- προς: PREP
- με·Αναστας: PRO,acc,sg,1+VERB,aor,act,imp,2,sg
- πορευου: VERB,pres,mid,imp,2,sg
- εις: PREP
- Δαμασκον: NOUN,acc,sg,m
- κακει: ADV
- σοι: PRON,dat,sg,2
- λαληθησεται: VERB,fut,pass,ind,3,sg
- περι: PREP
- παντων: ADJ,gen,pl,m
- ων: PRON,gen,pl,m
- τετακται: VERB,perf,pass,ind,3,sg
- σοι: PRON,dat,sg,2
- ποιησαι: VERB,aor,act,inf
Parallels
- Acts 9:6 (quotation): Near-identical report of Paul's conversion commission: 'What shall I do, Lord?' and the command 'Arise, and go into Damascus' — direct quotation/repetition of the same episode.
- Acts 9:15-16 (verbal): Ananias is told the Lord has chosen Paul as a 'vessel' and that he is appointed to accomplish God's purposes — echoes the language of being 'told... of all things... appointed for thee to do.'
- Acts 26:16-18 (allusion): Paul's speech before Agrippa recounts the heavenly appearance and divine commissioning (made a minister and witness; sent to the Gentiles) — a parallel commissioning tradition in Paul’s conversion narratives.
- Galatians 1:15-16 (thematic): Paul describes a divine revelation and call to reveal Christ in him and to preach to the Gentiles — parallels the theme of divine appointment and mission indicated in Acts 22:10.
- Isaiah 6:8 (thematic): Prophetic commissioning motif ('Whom shall I send?... Here am I, send me') resonates with the sending/appointment motif in Acts 22:10 — divine call and human being sent.
Alternative generated candidates
- So I said, ‘What shall I do, Lord?’ And the Lord said to me, ‘Rise and go into Damascus; and there it will be told you of all that is appointed for you to do.’
- And I said, "What shall I do, Lord?" And the Lord said to me, "Arise, and go into Damascus, and there you will be told of all things appointed for you to do."
Acts.22.11 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ως: ADV
- δε: CONJ
- ουκ: PART,neg
- ενεβλεπον: VERB,impf,act,ind,1,sg
- απο: PREP
- της: ART,gen,sg,f
- δοξης: NOUN,gen,sg,f
- του: ART,gen,sg,n
- φωτος: NOUN,gen,sg,n
- εκεινου: DEM,gen,sg,m
- χειραγωγουμενος: VERB,pres,pass,part,nom,sg,m
- υπο: PREP
- των: ART,gen,pl,m
- συνοντων: NOUN,gen,pl,m
- μοι: PRON,dat,sg,1
- ηλθον: VERB,aor,act,ind,3,pl
- εις: PREP
- Δαμασκον: NOUN,acc,sg,m
Parallels
- Acts 9:3-9 (quotation): Luke's original narration of Paul's Damascus-road encounter—describes the same blinding light, the voice from heaven, and Paul's temporary blindness and being led into Damascus.
- Acts 26:13-18 (quotation): Paul's later retelling before Agrippa recounts the same luminous revelation 'brighter than the sun' and the fact that those with him saw the light, linking the event to his commission.
- Exodus 34:29-35 (thematic): Moses' face shines from a divine encounter, producing a visible radiance and an effect on observers—thematically parallels divine glory manifesting as overpowering light that affects human sight.
- Galatians 1:15-16 (thematic): Paul describes a divine revelation that set him apart and revealed the Son to him—theological parallel to the Damascus revelation as the decisive commissioning and transformation of Paul's mission.
Alternative generated candidates
- When I could not see because of the glory of that light, being led by the hand of those who were with me I came into Damascus.
- Because I could not see for the glory of that light, I was led by the hand of those who were with me and came into Damascus.
Acts.22.12 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- Ανανιας: NOUN,gen,sg,m
- δε: CONJ
- τις: PRON,nom,sg,?
- ανηρ: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- ευλαβης: ADJ,nom,sg,m
- κατα: PREP
- τον: ART,acc,sg,m
- νομον: NOUN,acc,sg,m
- μαρτυρουμενος: PART,pres,mp,nom,sg,m
- υπο: PREP
- παντων: ADJ,gen,pl,m
- των: ART,gen,pl,m
- κατοικουντων: VERB,pres,act,part,gen,pl,m
- Ιουδαιων: NOUN,gen,pl,m
Parallels
- Acts 9:10 (verbal): The same Ananias is introduced in Luke's earlier account (disciple at Damascus); both verses identify the man who is sent to help Saul/Paul.
- Acts 9:17-18 (structural): Parallel narrative of Ananias visiting Saul, laying on of hands, restoring his sight and imparting the Spirit—the same events Paul recounts in Acts 22.
- Acts 10:2 (thematic): Cornelius is described as a devout/God‑fearing man—parallels the characterization of Ananias as 'devout' (devotion to God and observance of the law).
- Luke 2:25 (thematic): Simeon is called righteous and devout and is noted positively by others; echoes the language of religious devotion and good reputation used of Ananias.
Alternative generated candidates
- A certain Ananias, a devout man according to the law and well spoken of by all the Jews who lived there,
- A certain Ananias, a devout man according to the law, well spoken of by all the Jews who lived there,
Acts.22.13 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ελθων: PART,aor,act,nom,sg,m
- προς: PREP
- εμε: PRON,acc,sg,1
- και: CONJ
- επιστας: VERB,aor,act,part,nom,sg,m
- ειπεν: VERB,aor,act,ind,3,sg
- μοι·Σαουλ: PRON,dat,sg,1 + NOUN,voc,sg,m
- αδελφε: NOUN,voc,sg,m
- αναβλεψον·καγω: VERB,aor,act,imp,2,sg + CONJ+PRON,nom,sg,1
- αυτη: PRON,dat,sg,f
- τη: ART,dat,sg,f
- ωρα: NOUN,nom,sg,f
- ανεβλεψα: VERB,aor,act,ind,1,sg
- εις: PREP
- αυτον: PRON,acc,sg,m
Parallels
- Acts 9:17-18 (verbal): Directly parallel account: Ananias comes, addresses Saul, lays hands on him and tells him he will receive his sight; immediately Saul's sight is restored—near identical narrative wording.
- Acts 9:12 (allusion): Earlier Luke account of the vision in which Ananias is seen coming to restore Saul's sight; same event reported from the perspective of a visionary instruction.
- Acts 26:16-18 (thematic): Paul's later retelling to Agrippa centers on the Damascus appearance and divine commission that culminate in his being sent—connects the restoration of sight (via Ananias) to his vocation.
- Galatians 1:15-16 (thematic): Paul's summary of his divine revelation and calling: Christ was revealed in him and set him apart for service—parallels the Damascus conversion as the decisive divine intervention initiating his ministry.
Alternative generated candidates
- came to me, and standing by me said to me, ‘Brother Saul, receive your sight.’ And at once I looked up at him.
- came to me; and standing by he said to me, "Brother Saul, receive your sight." And in that hour I looked upon him.
Acts.22.14 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- δε: CONJ
- ειπεν·Ο: VERB,aor,act,ind,3,sg
- θεος: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- των: ART,gen,pl,m
- πατερων: NOUN,gen,pl,m
- ημων: PRON,gen,pl,1
- προεχειρισατο: VERB,aor,mid,ind,3,sg
- σε: PRON,acc,sg,2
- γνωναι: VERB,aor,act,inf
- το: ART,acc,sg,n
- θελημα: NOUN,acc,sg,n
- αυτου: PRON,gen,sg,m
- και: CONJ
- ιδειν: VERB,aor,act,inf
- τον: ART,acc,sg,m
- δικαιον: ADJ,acc,sg,m
- και: CONJ
- ακουσαι: VERB,aor,act,inf
- φωνην: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- εκ: PREP
- του: ART,gen,sg,n
- στοματος: NOUN,gen,sg,n
- αυτου: PRON,gen,sg,m
Parallels
- Acts 9:15-16 (verbal): Both passages speak of God’s choosing of Saul/Paul for a divine purpose (Acts 22:14 'God...has chosen you' echoes Acts 9:15's 'a chosen vessel' devoted to God’s mission).
- Acts 9:4-6 (structural): Immediate narrative parallel: the heavenly voice and Saul’s commissioning (’Saul, Saul...’) that Acts 22:14 summarizes—knowing God’s will, seeing the Righteous One, and hearing the voice—originate in this conversion scene.
- Acts 26:16-18 (thematic): Paul’s later recounting of his call to Agrippa parallels the purpose-language in 22:14 (appearance to appoint/commission him as witness, to open eyes and turn them to God).
- Galatians 1:15-16 (thematic): Paul’s own summary of his vocation—God set him apart and revealed his Son to him—resonates with 22:14’s emphasis on divine choice to know God’s will and to 'see the Righteous One.'
Alternative generated candidates
- He said, ‘The God of our fathers has appointed you to know His will, to see the Righteous One, and to hear a voice from His mouth;
- And he said, "The God of our fathers appointed you to know his will, to see the Righteous One and to hear a voice from his mouth; for you shall be his witness to all men of what you have seen and heard.
Acts.22.15 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- οτι: CONJ
- εση: VERB,fut,act,ind,2,sg
- μαρτυς: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- αυτω: PRON,dat,sg,m
- προς: PREP
- παντας: ADJ,acc,pl,m
- ανθρωπους: NOUN,acc,pl,m
- ων: PRON,gen,pl,m
- εωρακας: VERB,perf,act,ind,2,sg
- και: CONJ
- ηκουσας: VERB,aor,act,ind,2,sg
Parallels
- Acts 1:8 (thematic): Both verses emphasize the apostolic commission to be witnesses to others—Acts 1:8 outlines witness-bearing 'in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the end of the earth,' corresponding to 'a witness to all men.'
- Luke 24:48 (quotation): Luke (author of Luke–Acts) has Jesus tell the disciples 'you are witnesses of these things,' a direct Lukan echo of the witness motif and language in Acts 22:15.
- Acts 26:16 (verbal): In Paul's second account of his call, Jesus says he appointed Paul 'a minister and a witness' to speak to 'all people' about what he has seen—very close wording and function to Acts 22:15.
- John 15:27 (allusion): Jesus tells the disciples 'you also will bear witness,' linking presence with commissioning; thematically parallels Acts 22:15's claim that Paul will testify about what he has 'seen and heard.'
Alternative generated candidates
- for you will be a witness for Him to all men of what you have seen and heard.
- And now, why do you delay? Rise, be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on his name."
Acts.22.16 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- και: CONJ
- νυν: ADV
- τι: PRON,int,nom,sg,n
- μελλεις: VERB,pres,act,ind,2,sg
- αναστας: VERB,aor,act,part,nom,sg,m
- βαπτισαι: VERB,aor,act,inf
- και: CONJ
- απολουσαι: VERB,aor,act,inf
- τας: ART,acc,pl,f
- αμαρτιας: NOUN,acc,pl,f
- σου: PRON,gen,sg,2
- επικαλεσαμενος: PART,aor,mid,nom,m,sg
- το: ART,acc,sg,n
- ονομα: NOUN,acc,sg,n
- αυτου: PRON,gen,sg,m
Parallels
- Acts 2:38 (verbal): Peter's command to 'repent and be baptized...for the forgiveness of your sins' closely parallels Paul's instruction to 'be baptized and wash away your sins,' linking baptism with forgiveness and the invocation of God's name.
- 1 Peter 3:21 (thematic): Describes baptism as that which now saves (not as mere physical washing) but as an appeal to God for a good conscience—echoing Acts 22:16's connection between baptism, cleansing from sin, and a relation to God.
- Titus 3:5 (verbal): Speaks of God's salvation 'not by works of righteousness...but according to his mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit,' using 'washing' language that parallels 'wash away your sins' in Acts 22:16.
- Romans 6:3-4 (thematic): Links baptism with participation in Christ's death and resurrection and with dying to sin/ walking in newness of life, thematically resonating with Acts 22:16's portrayal of baptism as decisive cleansing from sin.
- John 3:5 (allusion): Jesus' statement that one must be born of 'water and the Spirit' to enter God's kingdom alludes to the cleansing/renewing significance of water and Spirit in initiation—an implicit background for Acts 22:16's call to be baptized and wash away sins.
Alternative generated candidates
- And now, why do you delay? Rise, be baptized and wash away your sins, calling on His name.’”
- When I had regained my strength, I was filled with the Holy Spirit, and I began to preach that he is the Son of God.
Acts.22.17 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- Εγενετο: VERB,aor,mid,ind,3,sg
- δε: CONJ
- μοι: PRON,dat,sg,1
- υποστρεψαντι: PART,aor,act,dat,sg,m
- εις: PREP
- Ιερουσαλημ: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- και: CONJ
- προσευχομενου: VERB,pres,mid,part,gen,sg,m
- μου: PRON,gen,sg,1
- εν: PREP
- τω: ART,dat,sg,m
- ιερω: NOUN,dat,sg,n
- γενεσθαι: VERB,aor,mid,inf
- με: PRON,acc,sg,1
- εν: PREP
- εκστασει: NOUN,dat,sg,f
Parallels
- Acts 10:10 (verbal): Peter 'fell into a trance' while praying (Greek ἐν ἐκστάσει), the same verbal formula for a prayer-induced visionary state as in Acts 22:17.
- Acts 11:5 (quotation): Peter's later retelling: 'I was in Joppa praying; and in a trance I saw a vision'—repeats the language and the link between prayer and trance/vision.
- Acts 9:3–7 (structural): Part of Paul's conversion narrative: a heavenly light, a voice, and the companions' reaction—Acts 22:17 occurs within Paul's retelling of this same sequence.
- 2 Corinthians 12:1–4 (thematic): Paul describes being 'caught up' to the third heaven and hearing ineffable things—a comparable personal visionary/ecstatic experience in Paul's corpus.
- Revelation 1:10 (thematic): John's formula 'I was in the Spirit' parallels the motif of an altered, spirit-induced state in which divine revelation is received (similar function to 'falling into a trance').
Alternative generated candidates
- “When I had returned to Jerusalem and was praying in the temple, I fell into a trance
- Now when I returned to Jerusalem and was praying in the temple, I fell into a trance,
Acts.22.18 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- και: CONJ
- ιδειν: VERB,aor,act,inf
- αυτον: PRON,acc,sg,m
- λεγοντα: VERB,pres,act,ptc,acc,pl,m
- μοι·Σπευσον: PRON,dat,sg,1+VERB,aor,act,imp,2,sg
- και: CONJ
- εξελθε: VERB,aor,act,imp,2,sg
- εν: PREP
- ταχει: ADV
- εξ: PREP
- Ιερουσαλημ: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- διοτι: CONJ
- ου: PART,neg
- παραδεξονται: VERB,fut,mid,ind,3,pl
- σου: PRON,gen,sg,2
- μαρτυριαν: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- περι: PREP
- εμου: PRON,gen,sg,1
Parallels
- Acts 9:26-29 (structural): Same narrative episode: Paul’s arrival in Jerusalem and the disciples’ fearful refusal to accept him—parallels the claim that Jerusalem would not receive his testimony about Jesus.
- Acts 21:4 (thematic): Fellow believers urge Paul not to go up to Jerusalem, echoing the warning implicit in the vision to leave because Jerusalem will reject his witness.
- Acts 23:11 (structural): A later scene in the same ministry arc where the Lord reassures Paul that, despite rejection in Jerusalem, he must continue to bear witness—ties to the consequence of remaining.
- Matthew 10:23 (thematic): Jesus’ instruction to flee to another town when persecuted parallels the vision’s command to depart quickly to avoid hostile reception to the gospel.
- Isaiah 53:3 (allusion): The prophecy of the Messiah being 'despised and rejected' provides the theological backdrop for why Jewish audiences would refuse Paul’s testimony about Jesus.
Alternative generated candidates
- and saw Him saying to me, ‘Hurry and get out of Jerusalem quickly, because they will not accept your testimony about me.’
- and I saw him saying to me, "Make haste, get out of Jerusalem quickly; for they will not receive your testimony about me."
Acts.22.19 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- καγω: CONJ+PRON,nom,sg,1
- ειπον·Κυριε: VERB,aor,act,ind,1,sg+NOUN,voc,sg,m
- αυτοι: PRON,nom,pl,3
- επιστανται: VERB,pres,mid,ind,3,pl
- οτι: CONJ
- εγω: PRON,nom,sg,1
- ημην: VERB,impf,act,ind,1,sg
- φυλακιζων: VERB,pres,act,ptc,nom,m,sg
- και: CONJ
- δερων: VERB,pres,act,ptc,nom,m,sg
- κατα: PREP
- τας: ART,acc,pl,f
- συναγωγας: NOUN,acc,pl,f
- τους: ART,acc,pl,m
- πιστευοντας: VERB,pres,act,ptc,acc,m,pl
- επι: PREP
- σε·: PRON,acc,sg,2
Parallels
- Acts 9:1-2 (structural): Narrative parallel/background: describes Saul’s mission and letters to arrest believers in Damascus—sets the wider context for Paul’s claim that he imprisoned and beat Christians.
- Acts 8:3 (verbal): Same theme/terminology of violent persecution: Saul is described as ravaging/attacking the church, matching the claim of imprisoning and beating believers in synagogues.
- Acts 26:10 (verbal): Paul’s own autobiographical retelling uses similar language about punishing and persecuting the saints in synagogues—close verbal and thematic parallel to 22:19.
- Galatians 1:13 (verbal): Paul’s summary of his former life: ‘I persecuted the church of God’—a concise restatement of the same activity he admits in Acts 22:19.
- 1 Corinthians 15:9 (thematic): Paul calls himself the least of the apostles because he persecuted the church of God—echoes the moral and apologetic thrust of confessing past persecution in Acts 22:19.
Alternative generated candidates
- And I said, ‘Lord, they themselves know that I imprisoned and beat in every synagogue those who believed in you.
- And I said, "Lord, they themselves know that in every synagogue I imprisoned and punished those who believed in you.
Acts.22.20 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- και: CONJ
- οτε: CONJ
- εξεχυννετο: VERB,impf,mp,ind,3,sg
- το: ART,acc,sg,n
- αιμα: NOUN,nom,sg,neut
- Στεφανου: NOUN,gen,sg,m
- του: ART,gen,sg,n
- μαρτυρος: NOUN,gen,sg,m
- σου: PRON,gen,sg,2
- και: CONJ
- αυτος: PRON,nom,sg,3,m
- ημην: VERB,impf,act,ind,1,sg
- εφεστως: PART,perf,act,nom,sg,m
- και: CONJ
- συνευδοκων: VERB,part,pres,act,nom,sg,m
- και: CONJ
- φυλασσων: VERB,pres,act,part,nom,sg,m
- τα: ART,acc,pl,n
- ιματια: NOUN,nom,pl,n
- των: ART,gen,pl,m
- αναιρουντων: PART,pres,act,gen,pl,m
- αυτον: PRON,acc,sg,m
Parallels
- Acts 7:58 (verbal): Describes the same scene: witnesses laid down their garments at a young man's (Saul's) feet when Stephen was stoned—direct narrative parallel to Paul’s claim he guarded the clothes.
- Acts 7:59-60 (structural): The account of Stephen’s martyrdom (his prayer and being stoned); Acts 22:20 refers back to this event and Stephen’s shed blood.
- Acts 8:1 (thematic): Summarizes the aftermath: Saul (Paul) approved of Stephen’s killing and led persecution—echoes Paul’s admission of complicity and approval in Stephen’s death.
- Galatians 1:13 (thematic): Paul’s own retrospective summary of his former life persecuting the church; supports Acts 22:20’s confession of participation in persecution.
- Philippians 3:6 (thematic): Paul’s statement that as a Pharisee he was 'zealous' and persecuted the church—parallels his claim of approving/guarding during Stephen’s execution as part of his former zeal.
Alternative generated candidates
- And when the blood of Stephen your witness was shed, I stood by and approved of it, and kept the clothes of those who were slaying him.’
- And when the blood of Stephen your witness was shed, I also stood by and gave my approval, and kept the garments of those who killed him."
Acts.22.21 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- και: CONJ
- ειπεν: VERB,aor,act,ind,3,sg
- προς: PREP
- με·Πορευου: PRON,acc,sg,1 + VERB,pres,mid/dep,imp,2,sg
- οτι: CONJ
- εγω: PRON,nom,sg,1
- εις: PREP
- εθνη: NOUN,acc,pl,neut
- μακραν: ADV
- εξαποστελω: VERB,fut,act,ind,1,sg
- σε: PRON,acc,sg,2
Parallels
- Acts 9:15 (allusion): God's declaration that Paul is a chosen instrument to bear Jesus' name before the Gentiles (and others) parallels the commission to go to the Gentiles.
- Acts 26:17-18 (quotation): Paul's later retelling of his call includes being sent to open the eyes of the Gentiles and turn them to God—an expanded formulation of the same commission.
- Acts 1:8 (thematic): Jesus' promise that the disciples will be witnesses to the ends of the earth provides the broader mission context for being sent to the Gentiles.
- Galatians 2:7-8 (thematic): Paul's self-understanding that he was entrusted with the gospel to the Gentiles echoes and reinforces the call recorded in Acts to minister among the nations.
Alternative generated candidates
- Then He said to me, ‘Go; for I will send you far away to the Gentiles.’”
- But he said to me, "Go; for I will send you far hence to the Gentiles."
The commander drew near, took hold of him, and ordered him bound with two chains; he inquired who he was and what he had done.
Some in the crowd shouted one thing and some another; because the commander could not obtain a clear account for the uproar, he commanded that Paul be brought into the barracks.
When he had given him leave, Paul stood on the steps and beckoned with his hand to the people. And when there was a great silence, he spoke to them in the Hebrew tongue.
Men, brothers, and fathers, hear my defense which I now make to you.
When they heard that he addressed them in the Hebrew dialect they kept the more silence. He said,
“I am a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but brought up in this city; at the feet of Gamaliel I was instructed according to the strictness of our fathers’ law, and I was zealous for God, as you all are this day.
I persecuted this Way even to death, binding and delivering into prisons both men and women.
The high priest and the whole council bear me witness; from them I received letters to the brethren, and I went into Damascus to bring those who were there bound to Jerusalem to be punished.
As I journeyed, and drew near to Damascus about noon, suddenly a great light from heaven shone round about me.
I fell to the ground, and I heard a voice saying to me, ‘Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?’
I answered, ‘Who are you, Lord?’ And he said to me, ‘I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom you are persecuting.’
Those who were with me saw the light, yet did not understand the voice of him who spoke to me.
I said, ‘What shall I do, Lord?’ And the Lord said to me, ‘Rise and go into Damascus, and there you will be told all that is appointed for you to do.’
For I could not see for the brightness of that light; and led by the hand of those who were with me, I came into Damascus.
A certain Ananias, a devout man according to the law and well spoken of by all the Jews who lived there,
came to me, and standing by said to me, ‘Brother Saul, receive your sight.’ And in that hour I looked up at him.
He said, ‘The God of our fathers appointed you to know his will, to see the Righteous One, and to hear the voice of his mouth.
For you will be a witness for him to all men of what you have seen and heard. Now why do you delay? Rise, be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on his name.’
When I returned to Jerusalem and was praying in the temple, I fell into a trance;
and I saw him saying to me, ‘Make haste, get out of Jerusalem quickly, for they will not accept your testimony about me.’ And I said, ‘Lord, they themselves know that in every synagogue I imprisoned and beat those who believed on you. And when the blood of your martyr Stephen was shed, I also stood by and gave my voice to it, and kept the garments of those who killed him.’
Then he said to me, ‘Depart; for I will send you far away to the Gentiles.’”