Acts 9:21
But all that heard him were amazed, and said; Is not this he that destroyed them which called on this name in Jerusalem, and came hither for that intent, that he might bring them bound unto the chief priests?
Acts 9:21 · King James Version
Meaning
When people heard Saul preaching, they were astonished because they recognized him as the same person who had previously persecuted and killed Christians in Jerusalem. Saul, who later became known as the apostle Paul, was a zealous Pharisee who actively sought out followers of Jesus to bring them to the chief priests for punishment. His dramatic transformation from a persecutor of the church to a passionate advocate for Christ left those who knew his past in disbelief. The verse highlights the power of God to change hearts and use even the most unlikely individuals for His purpose. It serves as a reminder that no one is beyond God's reach and that His grace and mercy are available to all who turn to Him in faith.
Theological Overview
In this verse from Acts, we see a moment of amazement and disbelief as those who heard Saul speak were incredulous at his transformation. The people are referring to Saul's violent past, where he persecuted and imprisoned followers of Jesus. The word “destroyed†used in this verse carries the connotation of causing harm or damage. However, in this context, it illuminates Saul’s aggressive actions toward the early Christians in Jerusalem. By studying the original Greek word used here, “apollumi,†we gain deeper insight into the severity of Saul’s actions and the significant impact he had on the early church. This moment serves as a powerful example of transformation and redemption, as Saul’s encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus led to a complete change of heart and purpose. Through theological interpretation, we can understand the profound implications of Saul’s conversion and how it foreshadows the spread of the gospel to the Gentiles and beyond.
Acts 9:21 in other translations
American Standard Version
And all that heard him were amazed, and said, Is not this he that in Jerusalem made havoc of them that called on this name? and he had come hither for this intent, that he might bring them bound before the chief priests.
World English Bible
All who heard him were amazed, and said, “Isn’t this he who in Jerusalem made havoc of those who called on this name? And he had come here intending to bring them bound before the chief priests!”
Douay-Rheims
And all that heard him were astonished and said: Is not this he who persecuted in Jerusalem those that called upon this name and came hither for that intent, that he might carry them bound to the chief priests?
Geneva Bible (1599)
So that all that heard him, were amased, and sayde, Is not this hee, that made hauocke of them which called on this Name in Hierusalem, and came hither for that intent, that hee should bring them bound vnto the hie Priests?