Then Saul,(who also is called Paul,) filled with the Holy Ghost, set his eyes on him,

ACTS 13:9KJV
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Acts 13:9 (KJV)

What does Acts 13:9 mean?

Acts 13:9 describes Saul, who is also known as Paul, being filled with the Holy Spirit and intently looking at someone. This moment marks a turning point as Paul, empowered by the Holy Spirit, prepares to confront a person in the story.

In the setting of Acts 13, Paul and Barnabas are in Cyprus, facing opposition from a magician named Elymas as they share their message. The verse highlights Paul's new name and his spiritual readiness, showing that what follows is not just his own action but is guided by the Holy Spirit. This verse sets up Paul's bold response to Elymas, emphasizing his authority and the seriousness of the moment.

The Greek behind Acts 13:9

  • "Παῦλος" (Paulos): The Greek name for Paul, used here for the first time in Acts. This signals a shift in the narrative, as Saul begins to be known primarily as Paul, especially in his ministry to non-Jews.
  • "πλησθεὶς πνεύματος ἁγίου" (plēstheis pneumatos hagiou): Translated as "filled with the Holy Ghost," this phrase means Paul is acting under the influence and guidance of God's Spirit, not on his own authority.
  • "ἀτενίσας" (atenisas): This word means "fixed his eyes" or "looked intently." It suggests a focused, purposeful gaze, showing Paul's seriousness and determination in addressing the situation.

Why Acts 13:9 matters

  • Acts 13:9 marks the first time Saul is called Paul, signaling his new role and identity as a key messenger to the Gentiles.
  • The verse emphasizes that Paul's actions are directed by the Holy Spirit, not just personal initiative, highlighting the divine backing behind his ministry.
  • The intense focus Paul shows prepares the reader for the confrontation that follows, underlining the importance and gravity of the moment in the narrative.

Where else these words appear

“eyes” Greek G816 · used in 14 verses

  • Luke 4:20 And he closed the book, and he gave it again to the minister, and sat down. And the eyes of all them that were in the synagogue were fastened on him.
  • Acts 3:12 And when Peter saw it, he answered unto the people, Ye men of Israel, why marvel ye at this? or why look ye so earnestly on us, as though by our own power or holiness we had made this man to walk?
  • Acts 11:6 Upon the which when I had fastened mine eyes, I considered, and saw fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air.

“Saulwho” Greek G4569 · used in 17 verses

  • Acts 7:58 And cast him out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul.
  • Acts 9:11 And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and enquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth,
  • Acts 11:25 Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul:

“with” Greek G4130 · used in 24 verses

  • Matthew 22:10 So those servants went out into the highways, and gathered together all as many as they found, both bad and good: and the wedding was furnished with guests.
  • Luke 2:6 And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.
  • Acts 2:4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.