Acts 13:7 – “who was an attendant of the proconsul, Sergius Paulus. The proconsul, an intelligent man, sent for Barnabas and Saul because he wanted to hear the word of God.”

Extended Explanation

This verse introduces an important figure in the story—Sergius Paulus, the Roman proconsul (governor) of Cyprus. He was a high-ranking official who had authority over the entire island. The verse tells us that he was an intelligent man, meaning he was thoughtful, educated, and open to new ideas. Unlike some leaders who rejected the gospel outright, he was curious and wanted to hear the word of God.

Sergius Paulus had an attendant (or advisor), who was Bar-Jesus (Elymas)—a false prophet and sorcerer mentioned in the previous verse (Acts 13:6). Bar-Jesus had influence over the proconsul, likely advising him on spiritual or mystical matters. This sets up a conflict between the truth of the gospel and the deception of false teaching, which unfolds in the next verses.

This verse highlights a powerful moment: the gospel is about to reach a key government leader, but opposition stands in the way. The desire of Sergius Paulus to hear the gospel shows that God was already working in his heart, preparing him for the message of Jesus.

Historical Context

Sergius Paulus was a Roman official, meaning he served under the authority of the Roman Empire. Proconsuls were appointed to govern provinces that were considered peaceful and stable. Cyprus was an important island for Rome, known for its trade and political significance.

At this time, many Romans were interested in philosophy, religion, and spiritual matters. Some leaders sought wisdom from different sources, including Jewish teachers, philosophers, and even sorcerers. This explains why Bar-Jesus had a role in the proconsul’s court—he was likely acting as a spiritual advisor.

However, Paul and Barnabas represented something completely different. Instead of offering philosophy or magic, they brought the true gospel of Jesus Christ. Their encounter with Sergius Paulus is an example of how the gospel was beginning to spread not just among common people but also among those in positions of power.

Theological Implications

1. God’s truth reaches all people, even leaders. The gospel is not just for the poor and needy—it is also for the rich, the educated, and those in high positions of influence (1 Timothy 2:1-4).
2. Spiritual hunger exists even among the powerful. Sergius Paulus was curious about the word of God, showing that people of all backgrounds have a deep need for truth.
3. False teachers often try to influence leaders. Bar-Jesus had a position of influence, reminding us that deception is often found where there is power (2 Corinthians 11:13-15).
4. God prepares hearts before the gospel is preached. Before Paul and Barnabas even arrived, God had already stirred curiosity in Sergius Paulus’s heart. The same is true today—God prepares people to hear His truth.

Literary Analysis

Luke, the writer of Acts, includes important details about Sergius Paulus’s character:

• He is a proconsul, showing that he was a man of high rank and influence.
• He is intelligent, which suggests that his interest in the gospel was not just out of superstition but sincere curiosity.
• He sent for Paul and Barnabas, meaning he actively sought out the truth, rather than rejecting it outright.

Luke also sets up an important contrast: Sergius Paulus (who seeks the truth) vs. Bar-Jesus (who spreads deception). This literary structure helps highlight the battle between God’s truth and Satan’s lies.

Biblical Cross-References

• 1 Timothy 2:1-4 – Paul encourages believers to pray for those in authority, so they may come to know the truth.
• Proverbs 8:15-16 – Wisdom from God is what truly establishes rulers, not false advisors like Bar-Jesus.
• Romans 10:17 – Faith comes from hearing the word of God, just as Sergius Paulus sought to hear it.
• 2 Corinthians 11:13-15 – Paul warns that false teachers disguise themselves as servants of righteousness.
• Luke 19:10 – Jesus came to seek and save the lost, including people in positions of power.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

1. We should share the gospel with everyone, including those in leadership. Paul and Barnabas did not avoid Sergius Paulus because of his political status. Likewise, Christians today should pray for and share the gospel with leaders and those in positions of influence.
2. People in power need Jesus too. Sergius Paulus reminds us that even successful, intelligent, and influential people have spiritual needs. They may not always show it, but many are searching for truth.
3. God prepares the hearts of those He calls. Before Paul and Barnabas even spoke, God had already placed a hunger for truth in Sergius Paulus’s heart. We can trust that when we share the gospel, God has already been working behind the scenes.
4. Be aware of false influences. Just as Bar-Jesus tried to keep Sergius Paulus from the truth, there are many today who try to distort or block the gospel. We need to be discerning and rely on God’s Word as our source of truth.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is seen in how He reaches out to people in every level of society. He did not overlook Sergius Paulus just because he was a Roman official. Instead, He made sure that Paul and Barnabas were there at just the right time to bring the gospel to him.

This also shows God’s love in action—He pursues those who seek the truth. When Sergius Paulus showed interest in hearing God’s Word, God made sure he had the opportunity. This reminds us that God is always drawing people to Himself (John 6:44).

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

1. Jesus came to seek and save the lost—including leaders. Sergius Paulus’s hunger for truth echoes what Jesus said in Luke 19:10—that He came to seek and save the lost, no matter their status.
2. Jesus faced opposition from false religious leaders. Just as Bar-Jesus tried to block the truth, the Pharisees and false teachers of Jesus’ day tried to oppose Him (Matthew 23:13).
3. Jesus is the true wisdom that leaders need. Sergius Paulus was an intelligent man, but true wisdom comes from knowing Christ (Colossians 2:2-3).
4. Jesus’ message attracts those who seek truth. Just as Sergius Paulus actively sent for Paul and Barnabas, many sought out Jesus during His ministry, recognizing that He had the words of eternal life (John 6:68).

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Why do you think Sergius Paulus was interested in hearing the word of God?
2. What does this passage teach us about how the gospel can reach people in positions of power?
3. How can we be faithful in sharing the gospel with those who are searching for truth today?
4. In what ways do false teachers still try to influence people away from the gospel today?
5. What can we do to pray for and support leaders, so they can be exposed to the truth of Jesus Christ?

Acts 13:7 reminds us that God’s truth is for everyone—rich or poor, educated or uneducated, powerful or powerless. No matter who a person is, they need the gospel, and God is actively drawing people to Himself. May we be faithful in sharing His truth wherever He sends us!