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Acts 26:16
Verse
Context
Paul’s Testimony to Agrippa
15‘Who are You, Lord?’ I asked. ‘I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,’ the Lord replied.16‘But get up and stand on your feet. For I have appeared to you to appoint you as a servant and as a witness of what you have seen from Me and what I will show you.17I will rescue you from your own people and from the Gentiles. I am sending you to them
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But rise, etc. - The particulars mentioned here, and in the two following verses, are not given in Act 9:1-9, nor in Act 22:6-11, where he gives an account of his conversion. He has detailed the different circumstances of that important event, as he saw it necessary; and perhaps there were several others which then took place, that he had no opportunity of mentioning, because there was nothing in succeeding occurrences which rendered it necessary to produce them. To make thee a minister - Ὑπηρετην, An under-rower; that is, one who is under the guidance and authority of another; an assistant, or servant. So Paul was to act solely under the authority of Jesus Christ; and tug hard at the oar, in order to bring the vessel, through the tempestuous ocean, to the safe harbour. See the concluding observations on John 6 (note). And a witness - Μαρτυρα, A martyr. Though this word literally means a witness, yet we apply it only to such persons as have borne testimony to the truth of God at the hazard and expense of their lives. In this sense, also, ancient history states St. Paul to have been a witness; for it is said he was beheaded at Rome, by the command of Nero. In the which I will appear - Here Christ gives him to understand that he should have farther communications from himself; and this may refer either to those interpositions of Divine Providence by which he was so often rescued from destruction, or to those encouragements which he received in dreams, visions, trances, etc., or to that general inspiration under which he was enabled to apprehend and reveal the secret things of God, for the edification of the Church. To all of which may be added that astonishing power by which he was so often enabled to work miracles for the confirmation of the truth.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
But rise, &c.--Here the apostle appears to condense into one statement various sayings of his Lord to him in visions at different times, in order to present at one view the grandeur of the commission with which his Master had clothed him [ALFORD]. a minister . . . both of these things which thou hast seen--putting him on a footing with those "eye-witnesses and ministers of the word" mentioned in Luk 1:2. and of those in which I will appear to thee--referring to visions he was thereafter to be favored with; such as Act 18:9-10; Act 22:17-21; Act 23:11; Co2 12:1-10, &c. (Gal 1:12).
John Gill Bible Commentary
But rise and stand upon thy feet,.... This, and what follows in this and the two next verses, are not in any of the former accounts; and these words are used not only because Saul was fallen to the earth, and are an encouragement to rise up, and stand corporeally, but to take heart, and be of good cheer; for though he had acted so vile and cruel a part by Christ, and his people, yet he had designs of grace, and good will to him; and this appearance was not for his destruction, but for his honour, comfort, and usefulness: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose; not to take vengeance for past offences, but for the ends hereafter mentioned: and this appearance of Christ was real, corporeal, and personal, and not imaginary, or merely visionary and intellectual; and it was to this sight of Christ he more than once refers, partly in proof of Christ's resurrection from the dead, and partly to demonstrate the truth of his apostleship, Co1 9:1. to make thee a minister and a witness, both of those things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee; so that he was an apostle, not of men, nor by man, but by Jesus Christ, as he himself says, Gal 1:1. He was a minister, not of man's making, but of Christ's; and they are the only true ministers of the Gospel, who are made by Christ, who have their mission and commission, their qualifications, gifts, and abilities, their doctrine, work, and wages from him: and the apostle's work, as a minister, was to be a witness; it was to testify what he had seen of Christ corporeally; and what knowledge of his person, office, and grace was now communicated to him by the spirit of wisdom and revelation; and what should hereafter be made known to him, either mediately by Ananias, or immediately by Christ and his Spirit; for the apostle had after appearances, visions, and revelations; see Act 22:17.
Acts 26:16
Paul’s Testimony to Agrippa
15‘Who are You, Lord?’ I asked. ‘I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,’ the Lord replied.16‘But get up and stand on your feet. For I have appeared to you to appoint you as a servant and as a witness of what you have seen from Me and what I will show you.17I will rescue you from your own people and from the Gentiles. I am sending you to them
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Be Rich: I Know a Secret
By Warren Wiersbe19K37:29GospelACT 26:16GAL 3:28EPH 3:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the mystery in the teachings of the apostle Paul. The mystery refers to the fact that when a person is saved, whether they are a Jew or a Gentile, they become part of the body of Christ. This concept is beautifully expressed in Galatians, where it is stated that believers are all one in Jesus Christ. The speaker also highlights the significance of knowing both the gospel and the mystery, as the gospel leads to salvation while the mystery brings a deeper understanding and experience of heaven. The sermon concludes by emphasizing that the gospel is the most important message in the world, as it offers forgiveness and salvation through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Men Whose Eyes Have Seen the King - Part 8
By T. Austin-Sparks1.9K43:16Seeing JesusGEN 1:26EZK 1:26MAT 6:33ACT 26:16ROM 8:191CO 15:252CO 4:4In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of Jesus reigning until all His enemies are under His feet, as mentioned in 1 Corinthians 15:25. The speaker highlights the vision of Ezekiel, who saw a throne in heaven with a man on it, representing Jesus. The speaker also references the apostle Paul's experience in Damascus and Arabia, where he gained a deeper understanding of the Bible and saw God's intention for mankind to have dominion and reign in glory. The speaker emphasizes that the current state of suffering, evil, and misery in the world is contrary to God's intention and should motivate the church to seek the realization of God's glory in their lives.
The Conversion of Saul of Tarsus
By C.H. Spurgeon1.7K48:02MAT 10:20MAT 11:23MAT 25:41ACT 9:6ACT 26:14ACT 26:16ACT 26:18The sermon transcript discusses the personal question that Jesus Christ asked Saul, "Why persecuteest thou me?" The preacher emphasizes that although he addresses the congregation as a whole, he acknowledges the individuality of each person. He highlights the transformation of Saul, who was a persecutor of Christians but became a minister and witness for God. The preacher assures the listeners that if they repent and seek God's mercy, they too can experience the same transformation. The sermon warns those who oppose Christ's gospel that they are heaping injury upon themselves and urges them to heed the message and come to Jesus.
(Acts) Righteous, Self Control, and Judgement
By Brian Brodersen61959:43MRK 4:14ACT 23:11ACT 24:14ACT 24:16ACT 24:18ACT 24:25ACT 26:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of scattering the seed of the word of God and trusting God to bring about the results. He shares a testimony of a group of people who shared the gospel at their workplace, and as a result, some employees got saved and attended church. The speaker also shares another testimony of a young man who overhears a plot against the apostle Paul and saves his life by informing him and the commander. The main point is that God often works supernaturally through natural means, and we should not always expect dramatic supernatural manifestations.
Bring Them to Christ
By Chip Brogden1JHN 10:16ACT 4:20ACT 26:161CO 9:24PHP 3:13Chip Brogden emphasizes the importance of Spirit-led ministry, highlighting the need for a clear goal and purpose in bringing people to Christ. He stresses the significance of ministry being first to the Lord before others, focusing on the example of Jesus and the disciples. Chip urges ministers to lead people to Christ, giving Him preeminence and avoiding seeking personal glory. He discusses the roles of teachers, pastors, evangelists, prophets, and apostles in ministry, emphasizing the central theme of bringing people continually back to Christ.
The Free Grace of God Exalted in the Character of St. Paul.
By John Gill0Transformation in ChristGrace Of GodACT 26:161CO 15:10John Gill preaches on the profound impact of God's grace as exemplified in the life of the Apostle Paul. He emphasizes that Paul's transformation from a persecutor of Christians to a devoted apostle was solely due to God's grace, highlighting that all of Paul's achievements and identity were rooted in this divine favor. Gill illustrates that humility and recognition of one's unworthiness are essential in understanding the grace of God, which empowers believers to live righteously and fulfill their calling. The sermon serves as a reminder that every aspect of a believer's life, including their faith and good works, is a result of God's grace, urging the congregation to give glory to God for all they are and do.
Fools for Christ's Sake
By Samuel Logan Brengle0Divine CallingFaith and ObedienceGEN 12:1EXO 3:10ACT 26:16Samuel Logan Brengle emphasizes that the commands of God often appear foolish to the unsanctified mind, using the examples of Abraham, Moses, and Paul, who all obeyed God's call despite the apparent absurdity of their missions. He illustrates how their faith led to monumental victories and the fulfillment of God's promises, despite facing immense hardships and persecution. Brengle encourages listeners to embrace their own divine callings, reminding them that obedience to God, even when it seems unreasonable, leads to spiritual triumphs and eternal rewards. He concludes by urging individuals to not be disobedient to the heavenly vision and to trust in God's presence as they step out in faith.
Aggression
By Catherine Booth0MAT 5:13MRK 16:15ACT 26:161CO 9:22JUD 1:22Catherine Booth preaches on the determined aggression on the territory of Satan as commanded in Mark 16:15 and Acts 26:16-18, emphasizing the urgency to preach the Gospel to every creature and open their eyes to the truth. She highlights that this aggressive warfare will provoke opposition, as seen throughout history, and encourages believers to expect and prepare for persecution. Catherine stresses the importance of adaptation in spreading the Gospel, using various methods and agents to reach different people, and urges the Church to move out of traditional routines to engage and interest the masses in unconventional ways.
Revelation Is Sufficient
By Chip Brogden0DAN 12:4JHN 14:6ACT 7:54ACT 26:16GAL 1:11PHP 3:7COL 2:32TI 3:71PE 2:8Chip Brogden emphasizes the importance of receiving revelation from God, contrasting earthly knowledge with spiritual truth revealed by the Heavenly Father. He highlights that true spiritual growth comes from knowing Jesus Christ through divine revelation, not just accumulating facts from various sources. Brogden explains that the foundation of the Church, the Ecclesia, is built upon individuals who have received the Revelation of Jesus Christ, as seen in the transformation of Paul from a persecutor to a preacher through divine revelation.
The Manliness of the Man
By George Kulp0ACT 26:16ROM 10:171CO 12:4EPH 3:2EPH 3:71TI 1:12HEB 4:161PE 5:51JN 5:14George Kulp preaches about being a minister according to the gift and grace of God, emphasizing the importance of attaining a state of mind where one is drawn to duty by delight rather than afflictions. He exemplifies extraordinary humility, profound faith, and a deep unity in theology, bridging the gap between the depravity of sinners and the high calling of saints. Kulp's character is marked by a perfect harmony of religious feeling, kindness, humor, and a constant communion with the Trinity, making his preaching vivid, powerful, and hortatory, appealing directly to the hearts and consciences of his listeners.
The Word of Men and the Word of God
By J.C. Philpot0JOB 11:8PSA 33:6LUK 8:13JHN 8:30ACT 26:16ROM 2:151CO 2:92CO 2:16GAL 1:11EPH 1:171TH 2:13J.C. Philpot preaches about the importance of receiving the gospel not as the word of men, but as the word of God, emphasizing the vital distinction between the two. He delves into the effects of receiving the gospel as the word of men versus the word of God in the understanding, conscience, and affections. Philpot highlights the necessity of the word of God being received with divine power to work effectually in the hearts of believers, leading to salvation. He concludes by expressing gratitude for those who have truly received the gospel as the word of God, acknowledging the eternal impact it has on their lives.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But rise, etc. - The particulars mentioned here, and in the two following verses, are not given in Act 9:1-9, nor in Act 22:6-11, where he gives an account of his conversion. He has detailed the different circumstances of that important event, as he saw it necessary; and perhaps there were several others which then took place, that he had no opportunity of mentioning, because there was nothing in succeeding occurrences which rendered it necessary to produce them. To make thee a minister - Ὑπηρετην, An under-rower; that is, one who is under the guidance and authority of another; an assistant, or servant. So Paul was to act solely under the authority of Jesus Christ; and tug hard at the oar, in order to bring the vessel, through the tempestuous ocean, to the safe harbour. See the concluding observations on John 6 (note). And a witness - Μαρτυρα, A martyr. Though this word literally means a witness, yet we apply it only to such persons as have borne testimony to the truth of God at the hazard and expense of their lives. In this sense, also, ancient history states St. Paul to have been a witness; for it is said he was beheaded at Rome, by the command of Nero. In the which I will appear - Here Christ gives him to understand that he should have farther communications from himself; and this may refer either to those interpositions of Divine Providence by which he was so often rescued from destruction, or to those encouragements which he received in dreams, visions, trances, etc., or to that general inspiration under which he was enabled to apprehend and reveal the secret things of God, for the edification of the Church. To all of which may be added that astonishing power by which he was so often enabled to work miracles for the confirmation of the truth.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
But rise, &c.--Here the apostle appears to condense into one statement various sayings of his Lord to him in visions at different times, in order to present at one view the grandeur of the commission with which his Master had clothed him [ALFORD]. a minister . . . both of these things which thou hast seen--putting him on a footing with those "eye-witnesses and ministers of the word" mentioned in Luk 1:2. and of those in which I will appear to thee--referring to visions he was thereafter to be favored with; such as Act 18:9-10; Act 22:17-21; Act 23:11; Co2 12:1-10, &c. (Gal 1:12).
John Gill Bible Commentary
But rise and stand upon thy feet,.... This, and what follows in this and the two next verses, are not in any of the former accounts; and these words are used not only because Saul was fallen to the earth, and are an encouragement to rise up, and stand corporeally, but to take heart, and be of good cheer; for though he had acted so vile and cruel a part by Christ, and his people, yet he had designs of grace, and good will to him; and this appearance was not for his destruction, but for his honour, comfort, and usefulness: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose; not to take vengeance for past offences, but for the ends hereafter mentioned: and this appearance of Christ was real, corporeal, and personal, and not imaginary, or merely visionary and intellectual; and it was to this sight of Christ he more than once refers, partly in proof of Christ's resurrection from the dead, and partly to demonstrate the truth of his apostleship, Co1 9:1. to make thee a minister and a witness, both of those things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee; so that he was an apostle, not of men, nor by man, but by Jesus Christ, as he himself says, Gal 1:1. He was a minister, not of man's making, but of Christ's; and they are the only true ministers of the Gospel, who are made by Christ, who have their mission and commission, their qualifications, gifts, and abilities, their doctrine, work, and wages from him: and the apostle's work, as a minister, was to be a witness; it was to testify what he had seen of Christ corporeally; and what knowledge of his person, office, and grace was now communicated to him by the spirit of wisdom and revelation; and what should hereafter be made known to him, either mediately by Ananias, or immediately by Christ and his Spirit; for the apostle had after appearances, visions, and revelations; see Act 22:17.