Acts 9:6
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Acts 9:6
6 And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.
Chapter Context
Acts 9 is a historical narrative chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of worship, righteousness, holiness. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Chronicles Christianity's spread across the Roman Empire despite official and unofficial opposition.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-43: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Acts and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Acts 9:6
6 And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.
Analysis
And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?—Saul's question marks complete surrender: the persecutor becomes disciple, submitting his will to Christ's direction. The Greek 'tremōn' (trembling) indicates physical fear and awe before divine majesty. What wilt thou have me to do? (τί με θέλεις ποιῆσαι;) shows immediate readiness to obey, abandoning his Damascus mission for Christ's alternative plan. And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do—Christ provides only initial instructions, requiring Saul to walk by faith. God often reveals his will incrementally, testing obedience at each step.
Historical Context
Christ directed Saul into Damascus where Ananias, warned by vision (vv.10-16), would baptize him and restore his sight. This required Saul to trust the very Christians he came to arrest. The three-day gap between encounter and Ananias' visit allowed time for prayer and reflection. Note: some manuscripts omit the verse 6 questions, placing them at verse 5.
Reflection
- What question has God left unanswered in your life, requiring you to obey the last instruction before receiving the next?
- How does Saul's immediate submission ('what wilt thou have me to do?') model conversion's proper response?
Word Studies
- Lord: Κύριος (Kurios) G2962 - Lord, Master
Cross-References
- Resurrection: Acts 22:10, 26:16
- Parallel theme: Acts 10:22, 10:32, Romans 5:20, 7:9, 10:3, 10:20