Acts 13 12

Acts 13:12 kjv

Then the deputy, when he saw what was done, believed, being astonished at the doctrine of the Lord.

Acts 13:12 nkjv

Then the proconsul believed, when he saw what had been done, being astonished at the teaching of the Lord.

Acts 13:12 niv

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

Acts 13:12 esv

Then the proconsul believed, when he saw what had occurred, for he was astonished at the teaching of the Lord.

Acts 13:12 nlt

When the governor saw what had happened, he became a believer, for he was astonished at the teaching about the Lord.

Acts 13 verses

Acts 13 12 Meaning

The verse describes Sergius Paulus, a proconsul, as an intelligent and discerning individual. He sought out Barnabas and Saul (Paul) because he desired to hear the word of God, indicating his open-mindedness and eagerness to understand spiritual truths. His understanding is highlighted by his deliberate action of inviting them to his presence.

Acts 13 12 Context

This verse occurs in the initial missionary journey of Barnabas and Saul (Paul), as they are ministering on the island of Cyprus. Sergius Paulus, the Roman proconsul, is the primary governmental authority there. The context involves Elymas, a sorcerer, opposing their ministry. Sergius Paulus's wisdom is shown in his decision to summon Paul and Barnabas, distinguishing him from Elymas, who tried to prevent the proconsul from believing. This encounter marks a significant moment where the Gospel is presented to a high-ranking Roman official, showcasing God's work extending into the Roman establishment.

Acts 13 12 Word Analysis

• Sergius Paulus: (Greek: Σέργιος Παῦλος, Sergios Paulos).
  • Sergius: A Roman gentile family name.
  • Paulus: A common Roman cognomen, famously associated with the Apostle Paul (Saul of Tarsus), though in this instance it is the surname of the Roman official. This is the first mention of a Roman official named Sergius Paulus in the Bible, and historical records confirm his existence as the governor of Cyprus.
• an intelligent man: (Greek: ἀνὴρ ἀνὴρ, anēr anēr) - "man man", emphasis on "man of understanding", "discerning," "intelligent." The repetition emphasizes the completeness of his understanding or manliness associated with intellect. It suggests a person of capacity and insight, not easily deceived.
• Antiochus: (Greek: Ἀντιοχέας, Antiopeas) - This appears to be a mistake in your prompt for Acts 13:12. The proconsul's name is Sergius Paulus. Antiochus was a common Greek/Syriac name, particularly of Seleucid kings. Perhaps there's confusion with other biblical accounts or historical figures.
• and held: (Greek: ἐχόμενος, echomenos) - literally "holding onto" or "embracing," indicating a firm grasp or commitment.
• Barnabas: (Greek: Βαρνάβας, Barnabas) - Aramaic origin, meaning "son of exhortation" or "son of comfort." An early Christian disciple, companion of Paul.
• Saul: (Greek: Σαῦλος, Saulos) - Hebrew origin, the original name of the Apostle Paul.
• to hear: (Greek: ἀκοῦσαι, akousai) - The aorist infinitive, expressing the purpose of his invitation, to listen to and apprehend the message.
• the word of God: (Greek: τὸν λόγον τοῦ θεοῦ, ton logon tou theou) - Refers to the divine message, the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
• God: (Greek: θεοῦ, theou).

Acts 13 12 Word Group Analysis

• "an intelligent man, and held Barnabas and Saul": This phrase highlights Sergius Paulus's proactive stance. He was not merely a passive observer but actively sought out and retained Barnabas and Saul. His intelligence led him to recognize their importance or the weight of their message, causing him to "hold" onto them for further discourse.

Acts 13 12 Bonus Section

The name Sergius Paulus connects to a historical figure whose existence is corroborated by archaeology, adding a layer of historical verisimilitude to Luke's narrative in Acts. This specific proconsul was a significant Roman authority, and his engagement with the nascent Christian movement demonstrates how the Gospel began to permeate various levels of society, including the Roman administration, from its early days. His decision to hear the Word of God signifies the divine drawing power of the message, affecting individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Acts 13 12 Commentary

Sergius Paulus, the Roman proconsul of Cyprus, is depicted as a man of notable intellect and wisdom. This discernment prompted him to actively seek out the apostles Barnabas and Saul, desiring to hear the message of God from them directly. His intelligent nature recognized the significance of what he had encountered, leading him to invite them into his company. This stands in contrast to the sorcerer Elymas, who attempted to pervert the truth and turn the proconsul away from the faith. Sergius Paulus's action underscores that spiritual truth is often recognized and pursued by those with discerning minds, willing to engage with the Word of God regardless of their prior background. His willingness to listen to Barnabas and Saul demonstrated an open heart and a desire for truth that transcended cultural and religious boundaries.