Easy Bible・Acts 22

Paul defends himself before the crowd

Key Passages

About this Chapter

In this chapter, Paul defends himself before a hostile Jewish crowd in Jerusalem. He recounts his conversion to Christianity and his encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus. Paul emphasizes that he was a zealous Jew who persecuted followers of Jesus, but was transformed by his encounter with Jesus. Despite the crowd's initial anger, Paul's testimony challenges their preconceived notions and opens up the possibility of a new understanding. Paul starts his defense by addressing the crowd in Aramaic, the common language of the Jews at that time. He shares his background as a Pharisee, trained under Gamaliel, and his zeal for the Jewish law. He then describes his persecution of Christians and his journey to Damascus to arrest believers. However, on the way, he encounters a bright light from heaven and hears the voice of Jesus, who identifies himself as the risen Lord. Paul is struck blind and is led into Damascus by his companions. In Damascus, a disciple named Ananias is instructed by the Lord in a vision to go and restore Paul's sight. Ananias is initially hesitant because of Paul's reputation, but he obeys and prays for Paul, who regains his sight and is filled with the Holy Spirit. Paul then explains that he was commissioned by Jesus to be a witness to all people, including the Gentiles. This statement angers the crowd, as they believed that Gentiles should not be included in God's salvation plan. The chapter ends with the crowd erupting in anger and the Roman commander ordering Paul to be taken into the barracks.