Acts 21:39 – “Paul answered, ‘I am a Jew, from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no ordinary city. Please let me speak to the people.'”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

In this verse, Paul responds to the Roman commander who had just mistaken him for an Egyptian rebel (Acts 21:38). Paul corrects the misunderstanding by revealing his true identity—he is not an outsider, but a Jew from Tarsus, a well-known and respected city in the Roman Empire.

Paul then makes a request: he asks for permission to speak to the angry crowd that had just beaten him and demanded his death (Acts 21:36). Instead of fearing for his life or trying to escape, Paul sees an opportunity to share the gospel.

This moment reveals Paul’s courage, wisdom, and deep love for his people. Even though they had mistreated him, he still wanted to speak to them about Jesus.

Historical Context

Paul describes himself as a Jew from Tarsus in Cilicia. This was important for several reasons:

1. Tarsus was a major city in the Roman world.
   • It was a center of education, culture, and philosophy.
   • It had a strong reputation, much like Athens or Alexandria.
2. Being from Tarsus gave Paul credibility.
   • The Roman commander might have assumed Paul was a troublemaker from an insignificant place.
   • By stating he was from “no ordinary city,” Paul was showing that he was not some radical rebel, but an educated and respected man.
3. Paul was both Jewish and a Roman citizen.
   • This would later help him appeal to Caesar and avoid an unfair trial (Acts 22:25-28).

Even in this intense moment, Paul uses wisdom in how he presents himself, knowing that it will affect how the commander responds to him.

Theological Implications

This passage teaches some key spiritual lessons:

1. God prepares His people for their calling.
   • Paul’s background, education, and citizenship were not accidents—they were part of God’s plan.
   • Everything in Paul’s life had prepared him for this moment.
2. Christians should use wisdom in how they present themselves.
   • Paul knew how to use his background to gain credibility and open doors for the gospel.
   • We should also be thoughtful about how we speak and act, so we can be effective witnesses (Colossians 4:5-6).
3. Courage and love should define a believer’s response to opposition.
   • Paul had just been beaten by a mob—yet he still wanted to speak to them.
   • Instead of anger or fear, he responded with boldness and love.

This passage reminds us that God equips us for the situations He calls us to—even difficult ones.

Literary Analysis

Luke, the author of Acts, writes this scene with contrast and tension:

• Paul, a prisoner, is actually the one in control.
• The Roman commander, who has power, is confused.
• The mob is shouting in anger, but Paul remains calm and logical.

The phrase “a citizen of no ordinary city” emphasizes that Paul was not just anyone—he had an important background, which gave him credibility.

This moment mirrors other times in Scripture where God’s people used wisdom in how they spoke:

• Nehemiah before the king (Nehemiah 2:1-5) – He carefully chose his words to gain favor.
• Jesus before Pilate (John 18:33-37) – He answered wisely, making Pilate question the charges against Him.

Luke’s storytelling shows that even in a crisis, Paul was led by the Spirit, not by fear.

Biblical Cross-References

• Colossians 4:5-6 – Be wise in how you act toward outsiders and let your speech be gracious.
• Matthew 10:16 – Jesus told His disciples to be as wise as serpents and innocent as doves.
• Acts 9:15 – God told Ananias that Paul was chosen to speak before rulers and kings.
• 2 Timothy 1:7 – God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.
• Acts 22:25-28 – Paul later reveals his Roman citizenship to avoid unjust punishment.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

1. God equips us for our calling.
   • Just like Paul’s background helped him in ministry, God has given you experiences, skills, and knowledge that He can use for His glory.
   • Nothing in your life is wasted when you surrender it to God.
2. Wisdom matters in how we share our faith.
   • Paul didn’t just preach randomly—he thought about how to approach his audience.
   • We should also be prayerful and strategic in sharing the gospel.
3. Respond to opposition with love and boldness.
   • Paul didn’t lash out at the crowd—he still wanted to speak to them about Jesus.
   • Even when people mistreat us, we should respond with grace and truth.

This verse challenges us to be bold, wise, and full of love—even when facing hostility.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is seen in how He prepares and equips His people:

• Paul’s background was not an accident—God had prepared him for this moment.
• God’s love for the lost is shown in Paul’s willingness to speak—he wanted to reach even those who had hurt him.
• God’s love is greater than human rejection—even when people reject His messengers, He still desires for them to be saved (2 Peter 3:9).

God’s love is not just for those who accept Him, but even for those who oppose Him.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Paul’s situation reflects how Jesus responded to opposition:

• Jesus was falsely accused but remained calm before Pilate.
• Jesus still loved the people who rejected Him.
• Jesus was willing to suffer if it meant more people could hear the truth.

Like Jesus, Paul was willing to endure suffering so that others could hear the gospel. This is the heart of the Christian life—loving people enough to share the truth, even when it costs us.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How has God used your background and experiences to help you share your faith?
2. What can we learn from Paul about wisely presenting ourselves and our message?
3. How do you typically respond when people misunderstand or oppose your faith?
4. What are some ways we can show love and courage when facing opposition?
5. How does Paul’s willingness to speak to his enemies challenge us to be bolder in sharing the gospel?

Acts 21:39 is a powerful reminder that God prepares us for the mission He calls us to. Like Paul, we should be wise, bold, and full of love—even in difficult situations. If we trust Him, He will use us for His glory, no matter where we are.