Acts 21:39
But Paul said, I am a man which am a Jew of Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city: and, I beseech thee, suffer me to speak unto the people.
Original Language Analysis
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 25
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Παῦλος
Paul
G3972
Παῦλος
Paul
Strong's:
G3972
Word #:
4 of 25
(little; but remotely from a derivative of g3973, meaning the same); paulus, the name of a roman and of an apostle
μέν
G3303
μέν
Strong's:
G3303
Word #:
7 of 25
properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact); usually followed by a contrasted clause with g1161 (this one, the former, etc.)
τῆς
G3588
τῆς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
11 of 25
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
πρὸς
unto
G4314
πρὸς
unto
Strong's:
G4314
Word #:
23 of 25
a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,
Cross References
Acts 9:11And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and enquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth,Acts 22:3I am verily a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, yet brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, and taught according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and was zealous toward God, as ye all are this day.Acts 6:9Then there arose certain of the synagogue, which is called the synagogue of the Libertines, and Cyrenians, and Alexandrians, and of them of Cilicia and of Asia, disputing with Stephen.
Historical Context
Tarsus was a major university city in Cilicia, known for its schools of philosophy and rhetoric. It rivaled Athens and Alexandria as an educational center, making citizenship there a mark of culture and standing.
Questions for Reflection
- How can you acknowledge your background and credentials without pride, using them for gospel opportunity?
- What does Paul's boldness to request a speaking opportunity teach about seizing moments for witness?
Analysis & Commentary
Paul's self-identification - 'a Jew of Tarsus... a citizen of no mean city' - established his credibility without boasting. Tarsus's reputation for learning and commerce gave Paul standing, while his Jewish identity connected him to those he sought to address. His request to speak showed courage and wisdom in seizing an opportunity for witness despite having just faced a murderous mob.