Acts 26:14 – “We all fell to the ground, and I heard a voice saying to me in Aramaic, ‘Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me? It is hard for you to kick against the goads.’”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Paul describes his dramatic encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus. After a blinding light from heaven appeared, Paul and his companions fell to the ground. But while the others were stunned, Paul heard a voice speaking directly to him in Aramaic—the language commonly spoken among Jews at that time.
Jesus calls Paul by his Hebrew name, “Saul,” repeating it twice. This repetition shows urgency and deep personal connection, much like when God called out to Moses from the burning bush (Exodus 3:4) or when Jesus spoke to Martha (Luke 10:41).
Jesus then asks Paul, “Why do you persecute me?” This question is powerful because Paul thought he was persecuting Christians, not Jesus Himself. But Jesus makes it clear—when Paul attacked believers, he was attacking Christ directly. This statement reinforces the deep unity between Jesus and His people.
Jesus also says, “It is hard for you to kick against the goads.” This was a common proverb in ancient times, referring to oxen that resisted their master’s direction. A goad was a sharp stick used to prod an ox to move forward. If the ox kicked against it, it only caused itself more pain. Jesus is telling Paul that by resisting Him, he is only hurting himself.
At this moment, Paul realizes that everything he has been doing—his persecution, his opposition to Christianity—is actually a fight against God Himself. His entire worldview is about to change.
Historical Context
Paul (Saul) was on his way to Damascus to arrest Christians when Jesus appeared to him (Acts 9:1-6). He was working under the authority of the chief priests, convinced that he was defending the Jewish faith. But instead of carrying out his mission, he was stopped in his tracks by the risen Christ.
The phrase “kick against the goads” was well known in the Greco-Roman world. It referred to a stubborn ox resisting its master’s commands. By using this phrase, Jesus was showing Paul that his persecution of Christians was not just misguided—it was an act of rebellion against God’s plan.
This moment also highlights the deep connection between Jesus and His followers. Jesus does not ask, “Why are you persecuting My people?” but “Why do you persecute Me?” This shows that to attack the church is to attack Christ Himself.
Theological Implications
This verse reveals the deep relationship between Jesus and His followers. He is not distant from His people—He identifies with them completely. When believers suffer for their faith, Jesus takes it personally. This should be a great comfort to Christians facing opposition.
It also teaches that resisting God’s plan leads to unnecessary struggle. Paul thought he was fighting for God, but he was actually fighting against Him. Many people today do the same, resisting God’s will in their lives and causing themselves harm in the process.
Additionally, this verse highlights God’s grace. Jesus did not destroy Paul for his opposition. Instead, He confronted him with truth and offered him a new purpose. This is a reminder that God is patient and willing to forgive even those who have fought against Him.
Literary Analysis
Paul’s storytelling in Acts 26 is personal and dramatic, designed to capture King Agrippa’s attention. He recounts the event in vivid detail, emphasizing the supernatural elements—falling to the ground, hearing a divine voice, and receiving a personal call from Jesus.
The phrase “Saul, Saul” reflects a pattern in Scripture where God calls someone twice for emphasis (e.g., “Moses, Moses” in Exodus 3:4; “Samuel, Samuel” in 1 Samuel 3:10). This repetition shows urgency and divine calling.
The question “Why do you persecute me?” is central to this verse. It challenges Paul to rethink everything he believes. The idea that he has been personally attacking Jesus Himself is a shocking revelation.
The phrase “kick against the goads” was likely included to help King Agrippa and the Roman audience understand the foolishness of resisting God’s will. It is an image of pointless struggle—Paul had been working hard, but in the wrong direction.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Acts 9:3-5 – The original account of Paul’s encounter with Jesus.
- Acts 22:6-8 – Another retelling of this event, emphasizing the voice of Jesus.
- Exodus 3:4 – God calls “Moses, Moses” from the burning bush, showing urgency and divine purpose.
- 1 Samuel 3:10 – The Lord calls “Samuel, Samuel” when choosing him as a prophet.
- Matthew 25:40 – Jesus teaches that whatever is done to His people is done to Him.
- John 15:18-21 – Jesus warns that those who hate Him will also hate His followers.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse reminds us that Jesus is personally involved in the lives of His people. When Christians face persecution or suffering, they are not alone—Jesus is with them, and He takes their struggles seriously.
It also challenges us to examine our own hearts. Are we resisting God’s direction in our lives? Are we kicking against the goads, making life harder for ourselves instead of following His lead? Surrendering to God’s plan is always better than fighting against it.
Additionally, Paul’s experience shows us that no one is too far gone for God to reach. If Jesus could stop Paul—a man bent on destroying Christianity—and turn him into one of its greatest messengers, then He can transform anyone.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is seen in how He confronts Paul, not with destruction, but with truth and grace. Instead of condemning him for his persecution, Jesus calls him into a new purpose. This is a picture of God’s incredible mercy—He does not give up on people, even when they are actively fighting against Him.
It also shows that God is patient. Paul had spent years resisting Jesus, yet Jesus did not abandon him. Instead, He met him where he was and changed his life.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse directly connects to Jesus’ identity as the risen Lord. Paul was persecuting His followers, but Jesus speaks as one who is alive and reigning. This encounter confirms that Jesus is not just a historical figure—He is active and involved in His church.
It also connects to Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 25:40, where He says that whatever is done to His followers is done to Him. Paul learns this firsthand when Jesus tells him that persecuting Christians is the same as persecuting Jesus Himself.
Finally, Paul’s transformation from enemy to apostle reflects the power of Christ’s redemption. Jesus does not just forgive—He transforms lives, turning sinners into servants for His kingdom.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- 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?
- Jesus asks, “Why do you persecute me?” How does this verse encourage Christians who are facing hardship for their faith?
- The phrase “kick against the goads” refers to resisting God’s plan. Are there areas in your life where you are struggling against God’s direction?
- Paul’s story shows that no one is beyond God’s reach. Is there someone in your life you have been praying for? How does this verse give you hope?
- Jesus personally intervened in Paul’s life. How has God worked in unexpected ways in your own life?
Paul’s words in Acts 26:14 remind us that Jesus is not distant—He is present, speaking, and calling people to Himself. Resisting Him only leads to unnecessary struggle, but surrendering to Him leads to transformation and purpose.