Acts 26:12 – “On one of these journeys I was going to Damascus with the authority and commission of the chief priests.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Paul continues his testimony before King Agrippa, describing the moment that led to his dramatic encounter with Jesus. He recalls how he was on a mission to persecute Christians in Damascus, acting under the full authority of the Jewish religious leaders.
Paul was not acting alone—he was officially commissioned by the chief priests to carry out his task. This means that his actions were not just personal zeal but part of an organized effort to suppress Christianity. He saw himself as a defender of Judaism, ensuring that this “new movement” did not spread.
This verse sets the stage for what is about to happen next. Paul thinks he is in control, but he is about to meet the risen Jesus and have his life turned upside down. His mission of persecution will become a mission of proclamation.
Historical Context
At this time, Damascus was an important city with a significant Jewish population. It was about 150 miles from Jerusalem, meaning Paul’s journey would have taken several days. His willingness to travel so far shows how determined he was to stop the spread of Christianity.
The “authority and commission of the chief priests” refers to official letters giving Paul the power to arrest Christians and bring them back to Jerusalem for trial (Acts 9:1-2). The Jewish leaders saw the growing Christian movement as a threat to their authority, so they wanted to put an end to it.
What Paul did not realize was that he was actually fighting against God’s plan. This moment on the road to Damascus would change everything—not just for Paul, but for the future of Christianity.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights how human plans are no match for God’s will. Paul thought he was carrying out an important mission, but he was about to learn that God had a greater purpose for him.
It also shows that God often interrupts people when they are headed in the wrong direction. Paul was determined to destroy the church, but Jesus stepped in and changed his path. This reminds us that no one is too far gone for God to reach.
Additionally, this verse demonstrates the limits of religious authority. The chief priests had given Paul their permission, but human authority cannot override God’s plans. Paul would soon realize that true authority belongs to Jesus alone.
Literary Analysis
This verse serves as a transition in Paul’s speech. Up until now, he has been describing his past actions and his opposition to Jesus. Now, he is leading up to the pivotal moment of his conversion.
The phrase “authority and commission” emphasizes that Paul was not acting alone—his persecution of Christians was an official effort backed by religious leaders. This makes his later transformation even more dramatic, because the same man who was once a representative of Jewish authority would soon become a preacher of Christ.
By mentioning Damascus specifically, Paul is grounding his story in real, historical events. This is not just a vague spiritual experience—it is something that happened in a specific place and time.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Acts 9:1-2 – Paul receives permission from the high priest to arrest Christians in Damascus.
- Acts 22:5 – Paul again describes how he received letters of authority to persecute Christians.
- Proverbs 19:21 – “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.”
- Isaiah 55:8-9 – God’s ways are higher than human ways, as seen in how He changed Paul’s mission.
- Matthew 28:18 – Jesus declares that all authority in heaven and on earth belongs to Him, not human leaders.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse reminds us that no matter what plans people may have, God’s purpose will always prevail. Paul had a mission, but God had a greater one. This is true in our lives as well—God can redirect our paths in ways we never expected.
It also encourages us to be open to God’s interruptions. Sometimes, we think we know exactly what we are supposed to do, but God may have something different in mind. We should be willing to listen when He calls us to a new direction.
Additionally, this verse reassures us that no one is beyond God’s reach. If Paul, a man determined to destroy Christianity, could be transformed into its greatest missionary, then there is hope for anyone.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is seen in how He pursues people even when they are running in the wrong direction. Paul was not looking for Jesus—he was trying to stop His followers. Yet Jesus still reached out to him.
It also shows that God does not give up on people, no matter how far they have strayed. Instead of punishing Paul, God chose to use him. This reflects God’s mercy and His desire to redeem rather than destroy.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse sets the stage for Paul’s encounter with Jesus. Paul was working under human authority, but he was about to meet the true authority—Jesus Himself.
It also connects to Jesus’ words in John 10:16, where He says, “I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also.” Paul’s conversion would play a huge role in bringing the gospel to the Gentiles, fulfilling Jesus’ mission.
Furthermore, Jesus had warned that His followers would face persecution (John 15:18-21). Paul was one of those persecutors, but soon he would understand what it meant to suffer for the name of Christ.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Have you ever had a moment where God interrupted your plans and led you in a new direction? How did you respond?
- Paul thought he was serving God, but he was actually fighting against Him. How can we make sure we are truly following God’s will and not just our own ideas?
- This verse shows that no one is beyond God’s reach. Do you know someone who seems far from God? How can you pray for and encourage them?
- Paul was acting under human authority, but God had other plans. How does this verse challenge us to trust in God’s authority over human leadership?
- What can we learn from Paul’s story about the power of God’s grace and His ability to transform lives?
Paul’s words in Acts 26:12 remind us that no matter how determined we may be in our own plans, God’s purpose is always greater. He can take even the most unexpected people and use them for His glory.