Acts 9:11
Verse
Context
Ananias Baptizes Saul
10In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord spoke to him in a vision, “Ananias!” “Here I am, Lord,” he answered.11“Get up!” the Lord told him. “Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying.12In a vision he has seen a man named Ananias come and place his hands on him to restore his sight.”
Sermons
C.H. Spurgeon
Gerhard Du Toit
Don Courville
J.C. Ryle
Samuel Chadwick
David WilkersonSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight - How very particular is this direction! And it was necessary that it should be so, that he might see the whole to be a Divine communication; the house was probably one in which Saul was accustomed to reside when at Damascus; and where he was known as a native of Tarsus. Tarsus was a city of Cilicia, seated on the Cydnus, and now called Tarasso. It was, at one period, the capital of all Cilicia, and became a rival to Alexandria and Athens in the arts and sciences. The inhabitants, in the time of Julius Caesar, having shown themselves friendly to the Romans, were endowed with all the privileges of Roman citizens; and it was on this account that St. Paul claimed the rights of a Roman citizen; a circumstance which, on different occasions, was to him, and the cause in which he was engaged, of considerable service. Behold, he prayeth - He is earnestly seeking to know my will, and to find the salvation of his soul; therefore, go speedily, and direct him. Some have laid needless stress on these words, as if they intimated, that "though Saul as a Pharisee had often said his prayers, yet he had never prayed them till now." This is not correct: he could himself testify that, while he was a Pharisee, he had lived in all good conscience towards God; and consequently, in that time, made many faithful and fervent prayers; but he was praying now for instruction, and his prayers were speedily answered.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
go into the street . . . called Straight--There is still a street of this name in Damascus, about half a mile in length, running from east to west through the city [MAUNDRELL]. and inquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul of Tarsus--There is something touching in the minuteness of these directions. Tarsus was the capital of the province of Cilicia, lying along the northeast coast of the Mediterranean. It was situated on the river Cydnus, was a "large and populous city" (says XENOPHON, and see Act 21:39), and under the Romans had the privilege of self-government. behold, he prayeth--"breathing out" no longer "threatenings and slaughter," but struggling desires after light and life in the Persecuted One. Beautiful note of encouragement as to the frame in which Ananias would find the persecutor.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And the Lord said unto him, arise,.... Quickly, directly, immediately, from off thy bed; the case required haste and dispatch: and go into the street which is called Straight; a street in the city of Damascus so called; the streets of cities were called by different names, to distinguish them as ours now are. So in Jerusalem there was the street of the house of God, which led to the temple, Ezr 10:9 and the upper street, in which idolatrous Gentiles, and such as were fullers by trade, dwelt (i); and the street of the butchers; and the street of the wool staplers (k): and this street in Damascus might be called "Straight"; because it might be a long straight street, without any windings and turnings, which might go through the city. Whether or no this was one of the streets which Benhadad allowed Ahab to make in Damascus, Kg1 20:34 cannot be said; and inquire in the house of Judas; which was in that street: who this Judas was is not certain, that he was a Jew appears by his name, but whether a believing, or an unbelieving Jew, is not known; however, he was Saul's host, and if this was the house he was recommended to from Jerusalem, or designed to go to when he set out from thence, it is very probable he was an unbeliever; but if it was an house he pitched on after his conversion, it is likely this Judas was a believer, and whether the same with Judas surnamed Barsabas may be considered, who is mentioned in Act 15:22 however, at this man's house Ananias was to inquire for one called Saul of Tarsus; or Saul "by name the Tarsian". So it is said (l) of Bigthan and Teresh, Est 6:2 that they were , "two Tarsians", perhaps citizens of Tarsus, as Saul was. Tarsus was a city in Cilicia, and which Solinus (m) calls the mother of cities, and is the same with the Tarshish of the Old Testament; here Saul was born, and of it he was a citizen; Act 21:39 and therefore is here called Saul of Tarsus, or Saul the Tarsian: for behold he prayeth: so as he had never prayed before; now he prayed with the Spirit, and with the understanding, from a feeling sense of his wants, for spiritual blessings, such as he had no knowledge of, nor desire after before. God has no stillborn children; as soon as any are quickened by his grace, they cry unto him; prayer is the breath of a regenerate man, and shows him to be alive. He who before was breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of Christ, now breathes after communion with Christ and them. This is said, no doubt, to encourage Ananias to go to him. The Syriac and Arabic versions place this clause at the beginning of the next verse, "for behold, whilst he prayed he saw", &c. the Ethiopic version has it not. (i) Misn. Shekalim, c. 8. sect. 1. Maimon. & Bartenora in ib. (k) Misn. Eruvim, c. 10. sect. 9. (l) T. Bab. Megilla, fol. 7. 1. & 13. 2. & Targum in Esther ii. 21. (m) Polyhistor, c. 51.
Acts 9:11
Ananias Baptizes Saul
10In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord spoke to him in a vision, “Ananias!” “Here I am, Lord,” he answered.11“Get up!” the Lord told him. “Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying.12In a vision he has seen a man named Ananias come and place his hands on him to restore his sight.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Earnest of Heaven
By C.H. Spurgeon1.6K42:12MAT 6:33LUK 15:6ACT 9:111CO 2:102CO 2:14REV 7:14REV 21:27The sermon transcript discusses the joy in heaven when a lost sheep is found and when sinners repent. It emphasizes the joy and celebration among the angels and saints in heaven when someone turns to God. The sermon also mentions the importance of studying the Bible and seeking God's message in the text. It concludes by highlighting the eternal joy and service of the people of God in heaven, never growing weary or hoarse with music.
New Zealand Interview - Part 2
By Gerhard Du Toit95004:16InterviewPSA 46:10MAT 6:6MRK 9:29ACT 9:11In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of encountering a powerful prayer life in an African pastor. The pastor's deep devotion to prayer and fasting, along with his unwavering faith, had a profound impact on the speaker. The speaker was moved to tears and realized the importance of waiting on God and not being in a hurry. The speaker also had the opportunity to join the pastor and others in prayer, experiencing the depth and intensity of their prayer life.
On Eagles' Wings Pt 465
By Don Courville31026:24Radio ShowMAT 6:33ACT 9:11In this sermon, the speaker explores the book of Esther and its relevance to victorious living and spiritual experience. The speaker prays for those who do not know Jesus to be drawn to Him and for believers to have a burden for the lost. The sermon emphasizes the importance of fulfilling one's duty, using the example of Mordecai sitting at the king's gate. The speaker warns against being hypocrites who love the glory but not the duty, and encourages believers to prioritize prayer and not just give it lip service.
Prayer
By J.C. Ryle0Spiritual GrowthThe Importance of PrayerISA 55:6HOS 14:2MAT 7:7LUK 18:1JHN 6:37ACT 9:11ROM 8:26PHP 4:61TI 2:8JAS 5:13J.C. Ryle emphasizes the paramount importance of prayer in the life of a Christian, asserting that it is essential for salvation and a hallmark of true faith. He argues that prayer is often neglected despite its necessity, and that a consistent prayer life is crucial for spiritual growth and holiness. Ryle warns that neglecting prayer can lead to backsliding and spiritual stagnation, while diligent prayer fosters a deeper relationship with God and brings peace amidst life's troubles. He encourages believers to approach prayer with earnestness, specificity, and thankfulness, highlighting that true prayer is a heartfelt communication with God. Ultimately, Ryle calls for a revival of prayer in the lives of Christians, urging them to recognize its power and necessity.
Profiting From the Word 4. the Scriptures and Prayer
By A.W. Pink0PrayerThe Importance of ScriptureZEC 12:10MAT 7:7LUK 18:7ACT 9:11ROM 8:26PHP 4:6COL 4:22TI 3:5HEB 4:16JAS 4:3A.W. Pink emphasizes the vital connection between prayer and the Scriptures, asserting that a prayerless Christian lacks spiritual life. He argues that true prayer is not merely a formality but a heartfelt communication with God, requiring the guidance of the Holy Spirit and alignment with Scripture. Pink highlights the necessity of recognizing our dependence on God, the importance of understanding His promises, and the joy that comes from genuine communion with Him in prayer. He warns against the hypocrisy of superficial prayers and calls for a deeper, more sincere approach to both prayer and the study of the Word.
Learning to Pray
By Samuel Chadwick01SA 1:15LUK 11:1ACT 9:11COL 4:2JAS 5:16Samuel Chadwick delves into the essence of prayer, emphasizing the personal, intimate, and original nature of true prayer that prevails. He explores how prayer is learned through the act of praying, not through philosophical reasoning, and highlights the importance of receptivity alongside expression in prayer. Chadwick discusses the power of disciplined prayer, drawing examples from biblical figures like Elijah and Saul of Tarsus, and emphasizes that prayer is measured by intensity rather than quantity or routine. He encourages believers to dedicate time daily for prayer, stressing the significance of training in prayer to develop a praying spirit and draw closer to God.
In the Secret Place
By David Wilkerson0The Power of PrayerSeeking GodMAT 6:6ACT 9:11PHP 4:6JAS 5:16David Wilkerson emphasizes the transformative power of fervent prayer in his sermon 'In the Secret Place.' He recounts the story of Ananias, who was instructed by the Holy Spirit to restore Saul's sight, highlighting Saul's deep commitment to prayer during his time of blindness. Wilkerson reflects on his own experiences of seeking God in prayer, illustrating how God responds to those who earnestly seek Him. He asserts that true revelation and calling come not just from study, but from intimate communion with God in the secret place of prayer.
The Diamonds of Heaven!
By C.H. Spurgeon0God's CompassionThe Power of PrayerPSA 34:18PSA 56:8PSA 102:17ISA 57:15MAT 5:3ACT 9:11ROM 8:26JAS 4:61PE 5:7REV 5:8C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the profound significance of prayer, illustrating that even the faintest sigh or tear from a distressed soul is noticed and cherished by God in heaven. He reassures the broken-hearted that their humble prayers, regardless of their weakness, resonate deeply with the Lord, who treasures every heartfelt expression of sorrow. Spurgeon likens tears to diamonds and sighs to music, highlighting that God is attentive to the cries of the humble rather than the proud. He encourages believers to understand that their prayers are recorded in heaven, promising that they will be remembered and honored by God. Ultimately, Spurgeon conveys that God delights in the sincerity of our prayers, no matter how feeble they may seem.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight - How very particular is this direction! And it was necessary that it should be so, that he might see the whole to be a Divine communication; the house was probably one in which Saul was accustomed to reside when at Damascus; and where he was known as a native of Tarsus. Tarsus was a city of Cilicia, seated on the Cydnus, and now called Tarasso. It was, at one period, the capital of all Cilicia, and became a rival to Alexandria and Athens in the arts and sciences. The inhabitants, in the time of Julius Caesar, having shown themselves friendly to the Romans, were endowed with all the privileges of Roman citizens; and it was on this account that St. Paul claimed the rights of a Roman citizen; a circumstance which, on different occasions, was to him, and the cause in which he was engaged, of considerable service. Behold, he prayeth - He is earnestly seeking to know my will, and to find the salvation of his soul; therefore, go speedily, and direct him. Some have laid needless stress on these words, as if they intimated, that "though Saul as a Pharisee had often said his prayers, yet he had never prayed them till now." This is not correct: he could himself testify that, while he was a Pharisee, he had lived in all good conscience towards God; and consequently, in that time, made many faithful and fervent prayers; but he was praying now for instruction, and his prayers were speedily answered.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
go into the street . . . called Straight--There is still a street of this name in Damascus, about half a mile in length, running from east to west through the city [MAUNDRELL]. and inquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul of Tarsus--There is something touching in the minuteness of these directions. Tarsus was the capital of the province of Cilicia, lying along the northeast coast of the Mediterranean. It was situated on the river Cydnus, was a "large and populous city" (says XENOPHON, and see Act 21:39), and under the Romans had the privilege of self-government. behold, he prayeth--"breathing out" no longer "threatenings and slaughter," but struggling desires after light and life in the Persecuted One. Beautiful note of encouragement as to the frame in which Ananias would find the persecutor.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And the Lord said unto him, arise,.... Quickly, directly, immediately, from off thy bed; the case required haste and dispatch: and go into the street which is called Straight; a street in the city of Damascus so called; the streets of cities were called by different names, to distinguish them as ours now are. So in Jerusalem there was the street of the house of God, which led to the temple, Ezr 10:9 and the upper street, in which idolatrous Gentiles, and such as were fullers by trade, dwelt (i); and the street of the butchers; and the street of the wool staplers (k): and this street in Damascus might be called "Straight"; because it might be a long straight street, without any windings and turnings, which might go through the city. Whether or no this was one of the streets which Benhadad allowed Ahab to make in Damascus, Kg1 20:34 cannot be said; and inquire in the house of Judas; which was in that street: who this Judas was is not certain, that he was a Jew appears by his name, but whether a believing, or an unbelieving Jew, is not known; however, he was Saul's host, and if this was the house he was recommended to from Jerusalem, or designed to go to when he set out from thence, it is very probable he was an unbeliever; but if it was an house he pitched on after his conversion, it is likely this Judas was a believer, and whether the same with Judas surnamed Barsabas may be considered, who is mentioned in Act 15:22 however, at this man's house Ananias was to inquire for one called Saul of Tarsus; or Saul "by name the Tarsian". So it is said (l) of Bigthan and Teresh, Est 6:2 that they were , "two Tarsians", perhaps citizens of Tarsus, as Saul was. Tarsus was a city in Cilicia, and which Solinus (m) calls the mother of cities, and is the same with the Tarshish of the Old Testament; here Saul was born, and of it he was a citizen; Act 21:39 and therefore is here called Saul of Tarsus, or Saul the Tarsian: for behold he prayeth: so as he had never prayed before; now he prayed with the Spirit, and with the understanding, from a feeling sense of his wants, for spiritual blessings, such as he had no knowledge of, nor desire after before. God has no stillborn children; as soon as any are quickened by his grace, they cry unto him; prayer is the breath of a regenerate man, and shows him to be alive. He who before was breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of Christ, now breathes after communion with Christ and them. This is said, no doubt, to encourage Ananias to go to him. The Syriac and Arabic versions place this clause at the beginning of the next verse, "for behold, whilst he prayed he saw", &c. the Ethiopic version has it not. (i) Misn. Shekalim, c. 8. sect. 1. Maimon. & Bartenora in ib. (k) Misn. Eruvim, c. 10. sect. 9. (l) T. Bab. Megilla, fol. 7. 1. & 13. 2. & Targum in Esther ii. 21. (m) Polyhistor, c. 51.