Acts 13 6

Acts 13:6 kjv

And when they had gone through the isle unto Paphos, they found a certain sorcerer, a false prophet, a Jew, whose name was Barjesus:

Acts 13:6 nkjv

Now when they had gone through the island to Paphos, they found a certain sorcerer, a false prophet, a Jew whose name was Bar-Jesus,

Acts 13:6 niv

They traveled through the whole island until they came to Paphos. There they met a Jewish sorcerer and false prophet named Bar-Jesus,

Acts 13:6 esv

When they had gone through the whole island as far as Paphos, they came upon a certain magician, a Jewish false prophet named Bar-Jesus.

Acts 13:6 nlt

Afterward they traveled from town to town across the entire island until finally they reached Paphos, where they met a Jewish sorcerer, a false prophet named Bar-Jesus.

Acts 13 verses

Acts 13 6 Meaning

The verse describes Sergius Paulus, the Roman governor of Cyprus, who was a discerning and intelligent man. He sent for Barnabas and Saul because he desired to hear the word of God.

Acts 13 6 Context

This verse occurs in Acts chapter 13, detailing the beginning of Paul's first missionary journey with Barnabas. They have arrived in Cyprus, specifically at Paphos. The context is that they have encountered Elymas the sorcerer, who opposed them and attempted to turn the proconsul Sergius Paulus away from the faith. After striking Elymas blind, the proconsul witnessed this event and it piqued his interest, leading him to summon Paul and Barnabas to hear the message of God.

Acts 13 6 Word analysis

• Sergius Paulus (Σεργίου Παύλου - Sergíou Paúlou): This is a proper noun, indicating the Roman proconsul (governor) of the province of Cyprus. The name "Paulus" likely refers to Sergius Paulus, a historical figure known to have served as proconsul of Cyprus. This adds authenticity to the biblical account.
• Proconsul (ἀνθύπατος - anthýpatos): This term denotes a high-ranking Roman official appointed by the Senate to govern a province. Cyprus, at this time, was a senatorial province administered by a proconsul.
• Intelligent (φρόνιμος - phrónimos): This Greek word signifies wisdom, prudence, discernment, and good judgment. It suggests Sergius Paulus was not a man easily swayed or deceived; he possessed an astute mind capable of thoughtful consideration. This quality made him receptive to hearing the gospel, as he sought true understanding.
• Sent for (προσκαλεσάμενος - proskalesámenos): This participle means to call to oneself, to invite or summon. It indicates a deliberate action by Sergius Paulus to engage with Paul and Barnabas directly.
• Barnabas (Βαρνάβα - Barnába): A prominent disciple and companion of Paul, chosen by the apostles as a missionary. His name means "son of encouragement."
• Saul (Σαῦλον - Saûlon): The original name of the Apostle Paul before his ministry took a significant turn, signifying his transformation and purpose.
• To hear (ἀκοῦσαι - akoûsai): The infinitive of the verb "to hear." It conveys a desire to listen, to receive information, and to understand the message being presented.
• The word of God (τὸν λόγον τοῦ Θεοῦ - tòn lógon toû Theû): This refers to the divine message, the Gospel of Jesus Christ, being proclaimed by Paul and Barnabas. It signifies the authoritative and revelatory communication from God.

Group Analysis: The entire phrase "Sergius Paulus, the proconsul, an intelligent man, summoned Barnabas and Saul, having heard about Jesus, desired to hear the word of God" paints a picture of an influential leader who, despite his position and likely exposure to various philosophies and religions, actively sought out the divine truth after witnessing a miraculous event and understanding Paul and Barnabas as messengers of God. His intelligence is highlighted as the reason for his genuine interest and willingness to engage with the Gospel.

Acts 13 6 Bonus section

The account of Sergius Paulus in Cyprus is a pivotal moment in the early church. It marks the first time Luke specifically names a Gentile leader who professes faith and demonstrates a deep desire to understand the Christian message. The "word of God" that Sergius Paulus wanted to hear was the message of salvation through Jesus Christ, a message that transcended ethnic and religious boundaries. The choice of Cyprus for this significant encounter is also noteworthy; it was the birthplace of Barnabas, lending a familial and familiar context to this initial Gentile outreach. This event sets the stage for Paul's future ministry, emphasizing his calling as the apostle to the Gentiles.

Acts 13 6 Commentary

Sergius Paulus's invitation to Paul and Barnabas demonstrates the impact of supernatural intervention on individuals in positions of authority. His intelligence was not a barrier to faith but rather a catalyst, prompting him to investigate the divine message he heard about. This willingness to seek the truth, even from unfamiliar sources, is a testament to God's work in drawing people to Himself. His request to hear "the word of God" signifies a deeper hunger for divine truth than mere curiosity.

• The proconsul’s desire shows that genuine understanding leads to a quest for truth.
• His intelligent nature allowed him to discern something significant about Paul’s message after witnessing Elymas’s fate.
• This interaction highlights the beginning of the widespread outreach of the Gospel to Gentiles, specifically to influential Roman officials.