Acts 9:15
Verse
Context
Ananias Baptizes Saul
14And now he is here with authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on Your name.”15“Go!” said the Lord. “This man is My chosen instrument to carry My name before the Gentiles and their kings, and before the people of Israel.16I will show him how much he must suffer for My name.”
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Go thy way - He was thus prevented from going farther in his reasoning on this subject. He is a chosen vessel unto me - The word σκευος in Greek, and כלי Keley in Hebrew, though they literally signify a vessel, yet they are both used to signify any kind of instrument, or the means by which an act is done. In the Tract. Sohar Exod. fol. 87, on these words of Boaz to Ruth, Rut 2:9, When thou art athirst, go unto the vessels and drink, etc., there are these remarkable words. "כלי keley, vessels; that is, the righteous, who are called the vessels or instruments of Jehovah; for it is decreed that the whole world shall bring gifts to the King Messiah; and these are the vessels of the Lord: vessels, I say, which the holy and blessed God uses, although they be brittle; but they are brittle only in this world, that they may establish the law and the worship with which the holy and blessed God is worshipped in this world; neither can this ministry be exercised but by vessels or instruments." This mode of speech was common also among the Greek and Roman writers. So Polybius, speaking of Damocles, Excerpta, vol. iii. lib. 13, [Edit. Ernesti], says, Ην ὑπηρετικον σκευος, και πολλας εχων εφορμας εις πραγματων οικονομιαν. "He was a useful instrument, and fit for the management of affairs." We find Paul, in Th1 4:4, using the same word, σκευος, for the body, agreeable to the expression of Lucretius, iii. 441, Corpus, quod Vas quasi constitit ejus. "The Body, which is the Vessel or instrument of the soul." See Bp. Pearce on this passage. Chosen vessel. - Σκευος εκλογης is properly a Hebraism, for an excellent or well-adapted instrument. Every reader of the Bible must have noticed how often the word chosen is used there to signify excelling or eminent: so we use the word choice, "choice men," eminent persons; "choice things," excellent articles. So in Jer 22:7 : They shall cut down the choice cedars, וכרתו מבחר ארזיך vecaretu Mibchar arazeyca; και εκκοψουσι τας εκλεκτας κεδρους σου, Sept. They shall cut the most Excellent of thy cedars; or thy cedar trees, which are the most excellent of their kind, they will cut down. Whoever considers the character of St. Paul, his education, attainments in natural knowledge, the distinguished part he took - first against Christianity, and afterwards, on the fullest conviction, the part he took in its favor - will at once perceive how well he was every way qualified for the great work to which God had called him. To bear my name before the Gentiles - To carry the ensign of the cross among the Greeks and Romans; and, by the demonstration of the Spirit, to confound their wisdom and learning, and prove that neither salvation nor happiness could be found in any other. Hence he was emphatically called, the apostle of the Gentiles, Ti1 2:7; Ti2 1:11. See also Gal 2:7, Gal 2:8, and Eph 3:8.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Go thy way--Do as thou art bidden, without gainsaying. he is a chosen vessel--a word often used by Paul in illustrating God's sovereignty in election (Rom 9:21-23; Co2 4:7; Ti2 2:20-21 [ALFORD]. Compare Zac 3:2).
John Gill Bible Commentary
But the Lord said unto him, go thy way,.... The Syriac version reads, "arise, go thy way"; make no delay, nor any excuse, there is no reason for it; nothing is to be feared from him: for he is a chosen vessel unto me; a choice and excellent one, full of the heavenly treasure of the Gospel, full of the gifts and graces of the Spirit, and so very fit and richly qualified for the use and service of Christ; and was , "a vessel of desire", or a desirable one, as the Jews speak (n): or he was, to render the words literally, "a vessel of election"; both an instrument gathering in the election, or the elect of God, through the preaching of the Gospel; and was himself chosen of God, both to grace and glory, a vessel of mercy, and of honour prepared for glory; and was separated, predestinated, and appointed to the Gospel of God, to preach it among the Gentiles; which sense is confirmed by what follows: to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel; by "the name" of Christ is meant his Gospel, which is a declaration of his person, perfections, glories, and excellencies, of his offices, grace, righteousness, and salvation; and to "bear" it, is to preach it, to carry it about, spread abroad, and propagate it; in allusion either to the prophets of old, whose prophecies are often called a "burden", which they bore and carried to the several nations to whom they were sent; or to the Levites bearing the tabernacle of the Lord, and its vessels, "be ye clean that bear the vessels of the Lord", Isa 52:11. Upon which Aben Ezra has this note, "they are the Israelites, , "that bear the law";'' but Saul was a chosen vessel to bear the Gospel; or to the sower of seed, Psa 126:6 "before the Gentiles", or nations of the world; and he was an apostle, and teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity; the Gospel of the uncircumcision was particularly committed to him: and before "kings", as he did before Agrippa, king of the Jews, and before Nero, emperor of Rome; and his bonds for the Gospel, and so the Gospel through his bonds became manifest in all the palace, or court of Caesar. And before the children of Israel; the Jews, to whom he first preached it; but when they put it away he turned to the Gentiles, and afterwards, before the Jews, he bore a testimony for it. (n) T. Bab. Megilla, fol. 6. 1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
9:15 Saul is my chosen instrument to take my message to the Gentiles: In God’s plan for spreading the Good News, the Gentiles were the next step (see 1:8; cp. chs 10–11). Saul of Tarsus (Paul) was God’s choice to spearhead this expansive missionary effort to bring the Christian message to the Gentiles and to kings, as well as to the people of Israel. The rest of Acts illustrates Saul’s (Paul’s) faithfulness in carrying out this divine commission (e.g., 26:19-23).
Acts 9:15
Ananias Baptizes Saul
14And now he is here with authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on Your name.”15“Go!” said the Lord. “This man is My chosen instrument to carry My name before the Gentiles and their kings, and before the people of Israel.16I will show him how much he must suffer for My name.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Europe 2008) Session 1 - a Man Sent From God
By B.H. Clendennen9.0K1:01:30CallingPSA 46:6MAT 6:33JHN 1:6ACT 2:3ACT 2:41ACT 4:31ACT 9:15In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the need for a revival in London and the world. He mentions that before the Wesleyan revival, there were no gospel churches in London, but when the revival came, everything changed. The speaker also highlights the importance of speaking by the Holy Spirit and living a life dedicated to God. He emphasizes the need for ministers who are fearless and anointed by God to speak the truth. The speaker concludes by stating that the only answer to the current demonic times is a supernatural intervention of God through revival.
The Fire of God
By Art Katz4.0K1:22:28Fire Of GodJHN 14:6ACT 9:15ROM 11:291CO 1:18EPH 2:81TI 2:51PE 2:9In this sermon transcript, the speaker describes a series of university meetings where he preached the gospel. Despite facing opposition and being seen as a traitor by some, the speaker boldly proclaimed the message of Jesus Christ. The power of the Holy Spirit was evident as the speaker shared the gospel, leading to conversions and confrontations with those who opposed him. The speaker also mentions a specific incident where he was asked to debate a professor of comparative religion, and despite feeling inadequate, he experienced God's power and saw the impact of his message.
K-144 Magna Carta of Apostolic Faith
By Art Katz3.1K1:17:10Apostolic2CH 20:15MAT 6:33ACT 9:15ROM 12:1HEB 10:33JAS 1:21PE 4:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of recognizing the cosmic drama between darkness and light that the church is involved in. He highlights that in the last days, the powers of darkness will intensify their fury as the age comes to a close. The preacher warns against domesticating and diluting the power and glory of the gospel message. He also discusses the need for an apostolic body that operates in the gifts of the Spirit and relies on prophetic words from God for guidance and direction.
How to Organize an Underground Church - Part 1
By Richard Wurmbrand2.4K28:50Underground ChurchMAT 6:33JHN 14:6ACT 9:15ROM 8:282CO 12:9In this sermon, Pastor Richard Woodenbrunt shares his experiences of persecution and suffering as a Christian in Romania under communist rule. He describes the sadistic torture methods used by the communists, including forcing prisoners to eat their own vomit. He emphasizes the need for Christians to prepare themselves for suffering and persecution, as it is difficult to do so once imprisoned. He also discusses the importance of relying on the truth of God's word rather than specific Bible verses in times of hardship.
Questions About Seminary, Ministry and the Holy Spirit (Heartcry 2005 Conference Q&a)
By Paul Washer2.1K46:46ISA 6:8MAT 4:19MAT 6:33MRK 16:15ACT 1:8ACT 9:15ROM 12:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of renewing one's mind through the Word of God, prayer, and godly fellowship. He suggests that by doing so, one can experience extraordinary revelations and confirmations from God. The speaker also encourages young men not to let anyone rob them of their heritage, which is being filled with the Holy Spirit and allowing God to work supernaturally through their lives. He shares examples of powerful experiences he has witnessed, such as seeing hundreds of people converted in the jungle through preaching in adverse conditions.
A Spiritual Call
By Jim Binney1.7K1:00:35Calling Of GodPRO 29:18MAT 6:33LUK 5:1LUK 5:4ACT 9:151CO 15:58EPH 2:10In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a spiritual cause in life. He starts by sharing a story about a fireman who risked his life to save a baby, only to discover it was just a doll. The preacher warns that sincerity alone is not enough, and that we will be held accountable by God for what we have committed our lives to. He urges the audience not to waste their lives and to seek a spiritual cause. The sermon also references a survey where many Americans expressed a desire to know their purpose in life, and highlights the need for young people to devote themselves to a spiritual cause rather than worldly pursuits. The preacher then shares a story about a young boy who questioned why the army was afraid of Goliath, emphasizing the need for young men to dedicate their strength and youth to a spiritual cause. The sermon concludes with a passage from Luke 5, where Peter is transformed from a businessman to a minister of the gospel after a direct encounter with Jesus.
The Triology of Intercession
By Wesley Duewel1.5K1:12:32IntercessionGEN 28:12PSA 47:8ISA 54:2JHN 1:12ACT 9:151CO 11:23EPH 2:10In this sermon, Bob begins by recounting the story of Jacob's dream of a ladder reaching to heaven. He emphasizes that being a child of God is not simply about being a member of a church or participating in religious rituals. Bob passionately calls for believers to exercise their kingdom authority and make a difference in society. He highlights the importance of prayer and the role of the Holy Spirit in deepening our understanding of sin and the need for revival. The sermon concludes with a reference to Isaiah 54:2, encouraging believers to enlarge their spiritual influence and strengthen their faith.
Two Great Commandments
By Paris Reidhead94154:02CommandmentsMAT 4:19MAT 28:19ACT 9:15In this sermon transcript, the speaker reflects on the importance of turning away from disappointments, sorrows, and fears and focusing on God's plan and purpose for our lives. The speaker emphasizes the need to be channels through which God's will can be introduced into the world. The sermon also highlights the importance of loving God and obeying His commandments as evidence of our discipleship. The speaker shares a personal experience of speaking at a conference and receiving an offering from Congressman John Buchanan.
The Rest Versus Babylon
By Robert B. Thompson6481:18:58GEN 1:2MAT 5:14MAT 23:24ACT 9:15ROM 8:19HEB 4:2HEB 4:10In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of rest in the context of the Bible. He compares the rest of God to various analogies, including Joshua bringing Israel into the land. The preacher emphasizes that the devil is not afraid of large prayer meetings or assertive actions by the church, but rather fears when individuals interact with Jesus. He also highlights the importance of ceasing from our own works and entering into the vision that God has for us through faith and obedience.
Ye Are Initiated Into the Mysteries of the Gospel
By Ignatius of Antioch0GEN 4:10ACT 9:15ROM 8:34PHP 1:3HEB 12:1Ignatius of Antioch, in his letter, acknowledges his own insignificance and imminent danger, contrasting it with the mercy and establishment in Christ of his audience. He humbly considers himself the least among those who have suffered for Christ, from Abel to himself. He encourages his audience to follow the example of Paul, the holy martyr, and expresses his desire to be found at the feet of Jesus Christ alongside all the saints. Ignatius assures them of Jesus' constant prayers for them.
Every Christian a Witness
By T.T. Shields0JHN 18:37ACT 1:8ACT 9:6ACT 9:15ROM 1:14ROM 8:211CO 1:18EPH 1:72TI 4:7T.T. Shields preaches on the solemn obligation of every believer to be a witness for Jesus Christ, emphasizing the debt we owe to Him for His redeeming love and the need to share the gospel with all people. Using the Apostle Paul as an example, he highlights the passion and dedication required to fulfill this obligation, stressing that effective witnessing stems from a deep personal relationship with Jesus. Shields encourages dedicating all our natural powers and developing our latent abilities to serve the Lord, reminding us that even our smallest efforts, when surrendered to God, can lead to great victories in His name.
1 Peter 4:14
By John Gill0PersecutionThe Blessings of Suffering for ChristISA 11:2MAT 5:10ACT 9:151PE 4:14John Gill emphasizes the blessings of being reproached for the name of Christ, asserting that true happiness comes from bearing the name of Christians and enduring persecution for the Gospel's sake. He explains that despite the world's view, those who suffer for Christ are honored and comforted by the Spirit of God, which rests upon them, providing strength and joy amidst trials. Gill highlights that while the world may speak ill of believers, their faithfulness glorifies God, showcasing the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in their lives.
Martin Luther
By J.C. Philpot0PRO 16:9ACT 9:15ROM 3:242TI 3:16HEB 4:12J.C. Philpot preaches about how God raises up chosen instruments throughout history to accomplish His purposes, such as Joseph, Moses, Joshua, Elijah, and Paul, emphasizing the importance of these individuals in advancing God's kingdom. He highlights the significant roles of Athanasius, Augustine, Wycliffe, and Luther in combating error and corruption, particularly Luther's pivotal role in the Reformation. Philpot delves into Luther's personal struggles, his deep reverence for the Word of God, and his unwavering commitment to truth, showcasing how Luther's experiences shaped the Reformation and established the supremacy of Scripture over man's authority.
Vessels of Ministry (Hebrews 9:21)
By T. Austin-Sparks0Sovereignty Of GodPurpose in MinistryEXO 3:7JER 1:5ACT 9:15EPH 1:4HEB 9:21T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of being 'vessels of ministry' as described in Hebrews 9:21, highlighting that every vessel in the tabernacle, regardless of its size or perceived importance, was chosen and anointed by God for a specific purpose. He explains that God's sovereignty governs not only the selection of these vessels but also their creation and function, asserting that each individual has a unique role in the body of Christ. Sparks encourages believers to recognize their value and purpose in God's plan, regardless of their perceived limitations, and to cooperate with God's work in their lives. He concludes by stressing the importance of being emptied of self to be filled with God's presence and power.
Contentment
By David Wilkerson0FaithfulnessContentmentMAT 6:19ACT 9:15ACT 9:20ROM 8:182CO 12:10PHP 3:8PHP 4:111TI 6:61TI 6:8HEB 13:5David Wilkerson emphasizes the profound lesson of contentment in the life of Paul, who, despite his significant calling and the promise of God, remained faithful and content in his circumstances. Paul understood that true fulfillment comes not from worldly success or recognition but from a deep relationship with Christ, which allowed him to rejoice in both abundance and lack. He did not envy others who seemed to achieve more; instead, he focused on his personal mission and the eternal reward awaiting him. Wilkerson highlights that for Paul, the ultimate goal was to see Jesus, and that the sufferings of this life pale in comparison to the joy of knowing Christ.
Day 133, Acts 25
By David Servant0LUK 23:1ACT 9:15ACT 12:2ACT 19:21ACT 23:11ACT 25:13ROM 1:162TI 4:6REV 2:10David Servant delves into the historical context surrounding Paul's trials before King Agrippa II, Governor Felix, and Governor Festus, highlighting the dark and tumultuous family history of the Herodian dynasty, including beheadings and immoral relationships. Despite facing persecution and being kept in custody, Paul's influence remained strong through his letters and ministry. Paul, as a Roman citizen, appealed to Caesar Nero for a fair trial, revealing Nero's notorious reputation for cruelty, including persecuting Christians and blaming them for the Great Fire of Rome.
Lord, Why?
By David Wilkerson0God's GraceSufferingMAT 27:46ACT 9:15David Wilkerson addresses the question 'Lord, Why?' emphasizing that it is not a sin for believers to ask why they endure suffering, as even Jesus questioned during His crucifixion. He acknowledges the world's demand for explanations regarding pain and suffering, asserting that God weeps for humanity's plight. Wilkerson highlights the Apostle Paul's immense suffering and the assurance that those who seek Christ will face trials, yet they will also experience God's deliverance. He reminds us that while God may not provide answers, His grace is sufficient to carry us through our afflictions.
Your Life's Work
By Arthur Vess0ISA 6:8JER 1:5MAT 4:19ACT 9:151CO 1:26Arthur Vess preaches about the importance of recognizing and obeying God's call for your life's work, emphasizing the need to be in a right relationship with God and willing to go or stay according to His will. He highlights the honor and fulfillment that comes from following God's call, even in the face of opposition and challenges. Vess uses examples from biblical figures like Moses, Abraham, Elijah, and the Apostle Paul to illustrate how God calls and equips individuals for specific missions or service, often through unique and miraculous circumstances.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Go thy way - He was thus prevented from going farther in his reasoning on this subject. He is a chosen vessel unto me - The word σκευος in Greek, and כלי Keley in Hebrew, though they literally signify a vessel, yet they are both used to signify any kind of instrument, or the means by which an act is done. In the Tract. Sohar Exod. fol. 87, on these words of Boaz to Ruth, Rut 2:9, When thou art athirst, go unto the vessels and drink, etc., there are these remarkable words. "כלי keley, vessels; that is, the righteous, who are called the vessels or instruments of Jehovah; for it is decreed that the whole world shall bring gifts to the King Messiah; and these are the vessels of the Lord: vessels, I say, which the holy and blessed God uses, although they be brittle; but they are brittle only in this world, that they may establish the law and the worship with which the holy and blessed God is worshipped in this world; neither can this ministry be exercised but by vessels or instruments." This mode of speech was common also among the Greek and Roman writers. So Polybius, speaking of Damocles, Excerpta, vol. iii. lib. 13, [Edit. Ernesti], says, Ην ὑπηρετικον σκευος, και πολλας εχων εφορμας εις πραγματων οικονομιαν. "He was a useful instrument, and fit for the management of affairs." We find Paul, in Th1 4:4, using the same word, σκευος, for the body, agreeable to the expression of Lucretius, iii. 441, Corpus, quod Vas quasi constitit ejus. "The Body, which is the Vessel or instrument of the soul." See Bp. Pearce on this passage. Chosen vessel. - Σκευος εκλογης is properly a Hebraism, for an excellent or well-adapted instrument. Every reader of the Bible must have noticed how often the word chosen is used there to signify excelling or eminent: so we use the word choice, "choice men," eminent persons; "choice things," excellent articles. So in Jer 22:7 : They shall cut down the choice cedars, וכרתו מבחר ארזיך vecaretu Mibchar arazeyca; και εκκοψουσι τας εκλεκτας κεδρους σου, Sept. They shall cut the most Excellent of thy cedars; or thy cedar trees, which are the most excellent of their kind, they will cut down. Whoever considers the character of St. Paul, his education, attainments in natural knowledge, the distinguished part he took - first against Christianity, and afterwards, on the fullest conviction, the part he took in its favor - will at once perceive how well he was every way qualified for the great work to which God had called him. To bear my name before the Gentiles - To carry the ensign of the cross among the Greeks and Romans; and, by the demonstration of the Spirit, to confound their wisdom and learning, and prove that neither salvation nor happiness could be found in any other. Hence he was emphatically called, the apostle of the Gentiles, Ti1 2:7; Ti2 1:11. See also Gal 2:7, Gal 2:8, and Eph 3:8.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Go thy way--Do as thou art bidden, without gainsaying. he is a chosen vessel--a word often used by Paul in illustrating God's sovereignty in election (Rom 9:21-23; Co2 4:7; Ti2 2:20-21 [ALFORD]. Compare Zac 3:2).
John Gill Bible Commentary
But the Lord said unto him, go thy way,.... The Syriac version reads, "arise, go thy way"; make no delay, nor any excuse, there is no reason for it; nothing is to be feared from him: for he is a chosen vessel unto me; a choice and excellent one, full of the heavenly treasure of the Gospel, full of the gifts and graces of the Spirit, and so very fit and richly qualified for the use and service of Christ; and was , "a vessel of desire", or a desirable one, as the Jews speak (n): or he was, to render the words literally, "a vessel of election"; both an instrument gathering in the election, or the elect of God, through the preaching of the Gospel; and was himself chosen of God, both to grace and glory, a vessel of mercy, and of honour prepared for glory; and was separated, predestinated, and appointed to the Gospel of God, to preach it among the Gentiles; which sense is confirmed by what follows: to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel; by "the name" of Christ is meant his Gospel, which is a declaration of his person, perfections, glories, and excellencies, of his offices, grace, righteousness, and salvation; and to "bear" it, is to preach it, to carry it about, spread abroad, and propagate it; in allusion either to the prophets of old, whose prophecies are often called a "burden", which they bore and carried to the several nations to whom they were sent; or to the Levites bearing the tabernacle of the Lord, and its vessels, "be ye clean that bear the vessels of the Lord", Isa 52:11. Upon which Aben Ezra has this note, "they are the Israelites, , "that bear the law";'' but Saul was a chosen vessel to bear the Gospel; or to the sower of seed, Psa 126:6 "before the Gentiles", or nations of the world; and he was an apostle, and teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity; the Gospel of the uncircumcision was particularly committed to him: and before "kings", as he did before Agrippa, king of the Jews, and before Nero, emperor of Rome; and his bonds for the Gospel, and so the Gospel through his bonds became manifest in all the palace, or court of Caesar. And before the children of Israel; the Jews, to whom he first preached it; but when they put it away he turned to the Gentiles, and afterwards, before the Jews, he bore a testimony for it. (n) T. Bab. Megilla, fol. 6. 1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
9:15 Saul is my chosen instrument to take my message to the Gentiles: In God’s plan for spreading the Good News, the Gentiles were the next step (see 1:8; cp. chs 10–11). Saul of Tarsus (Paul) was God’s choice to spearhead this expansive missionary effort to bring the Christian message to the Gentiles and to kings, as well as to the people of Israel. The rest of Acts illustrates Saul’s (Paul’s) faithfulness in carrying out this divine commission (e.g., 26:19-23).