Acts 26:16 – “Now get up and stand on your feet. I have appeared to you to appoint you as a servant and as a witness of what you have seen and will see of me.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Jesus speaks directly to Paul (formerly Saul) after appearing to him on the road to Damascus. Paul has just been knocked to the ground by a blinding light and confronted by Jesus, whom he had been persecuting. Instead of condemning Paul, Jesus tells him to get up and stand. This is a command, not a suggestion—Jesus is giving Paul a new purpose.
Jesus then makes it clear why He has appeared to Paul: to appoint him as a servant and a witness. Paul is no longer to be an enemy of Christ, but His representative. He will no longer be known as a persecutor of Christians, but as one of the greatest messengers of the gospel.
Jesus also tells Paul that his role is to testify about what he has seen and will see of Him. This means Paul’s mission is not just about this moment—he will continue to receive revelation from Jesus and will be responsible for spreading that truth to others.
This verse marks the beginning of Paul’s new life. He thought he was on a mission for God, but in reality, he was working against Him. Now, Jesus personally calls him to a greater mission—to serve and to bear witness to the truth.
Historical Context
At the time of this encounter, Paul was on his way to Damascus with letters from the Jewish authorities to arrest Christians (Acts 9:1-2). He was a Pharisee, deeply committed to protecting Jewish traditions and eliminating what he saw as a dangerous sect.
Paul’s conversion is one of the most significant moments in Christian history. He was a well-educated and highly influential man, and his dramatic transformation from persecutor to preacher had a major impact on the spread of Christianity.
The phrase “get up and stand on your feet” is similar to how God called prophets in the Old Testament. For example, Ezekiel was commanded to stand when he received God’s message (Ezekiel 2:1). This shows that Paul’s calling was not just personal—it was part of God’s larger plan to reach the world.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches that God does not just save people—He calls them to serve. Jesus did not appear to Paul just to forgive him, but to give him a mission. In the same way, when people come to faith in Christ, they are not just saved from sin; they are also given a purpose in God’s kingdom.
It also shows that salvation is entirely by God’s grace. Paul did nothing to earn this calling—in fact, he was actively fighting against Jesus when he was called. This demonstrates that God’s mercy is greater than our failures.
Another important truth in this verse is that being a witness of Jesus is central to the Christian life. Paul was called to share what he had seen and what he would continue to learn about Jesus. This applies to all believers—our faith is not just for ourselves; it is meant to be shared with others.
Literary Analysis
Jesus’ words are direct and authoritative. “Now get up and stand on your feet” is not just a command for Paul to physically rise—it symbolizes his new spiritual direction. He has fallen in opposition to Jesus, but now he is being raised up to serve Him.
The phrase “I have appeared to you to appoint you” emphasizes divine selection. Paul did not choose this path—Jesus chose him. This echoes God’s pattern of calling people throughout the Bible, from Moses (Exodus 3:10) to the prophets (Jeremiah 1:5).
The structure of the verse also sets up Paul’s lifelong mission. Jesus first establishes His authority, then gives Paul a clear role as a servant (one who obeys) and a witness (one who testifies). These two roles would define Paul’s ministry for the rest of his life.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Acts 9:15-16 – Jesus tells Ananias that Paul is His chosen instrument to carry His name to the Gentiles.
- Ezekiel 2:1 – God tells Ezekiel to stand before receiving his prophetic commission.
- Jeremiah 1:5 – God calls Jeremiah before he is even born.
- 2 Corinthians 5:20 – Paul later describes believers as ambassadors for Christ.
- Matthew 28:19-20 – Jesus’ Great Commission to make disciples of all nations.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse reminds us that when Jesus calls someone, He gives them a new purpose. If we have placed our faith in Christ, we are not just saved—we are sent. Like Paul, we are called to be servants and witnesses, sharing the truth of Jesus with the world.
It also challenges us to be willing to let God change our direction. Paul thought he knew exactly what he was supposed to do, but Jesus had a completely different plan for his life. Are we open to God leading us in ways we may not expect?
Additionally, this verse reassures us that God’s grace is greater than our past mistakes. Paul had done terrible things, yet Jesus still called him to serve. No matter what we have done, God can redeem our story for His glory.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is seen in how He does not just save people—He gives them a role in His plan. Jesus did not just forgive Paul and leave him alone; He gave him a purpose. This shows that God loves us enough to include us in His work.
It also reflects God’s mercy. Paul was actively working against Jesus, yet instead of punishing him, Jesus called him into His service. This is a powerful picture of how God’s love reaches even His enemies.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse reveals Jesus’ authority. He is not just a teacher or a prophet—He is the risen Lord, who has the power to call and commission His followers.
It also connects to Jesus’ own mission. Jesus was sent by the Father to serve and bear witness to the truth (John 18:37). Now, He is calling Paul to continue that same work. In a sense, Paul is being invited to follow in Jesus’ footsteps.
Furthermore, Paul’s transformation reflects the power of Christ’s resurrection. The same Jesus who rose from the dead now gives life and purpose to those who believe in Him.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Paul thought he was doing the right thing before Jesus confronted him. How can we ensure we are truly following God’s will and not just our own plans?
- Jesus told Paul to get up and stand as a sign of his new purpose. Are there areas in your life where God is calling you to stand up and serve Him?
- Paul was chosen not because of his goodness but because of God’s grace. How does this encourage you in your own walk with Christ?
- What does it mean to be a servant and witness of Jesus in your daily life?
- Jesus personally appeared to Paul and gave him a mission. How has God worked in your life to guide you toward His purpose?
Paul’s words in Acts 26:16 remind us that Jesus does not just save us—He calls us. Every believer has a mission, and when we respond to His call, He equips us to serve and to bear witness to His truth.