And I said, Who art thou, Lord? And he said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest.
ACTS 26:15KJVWhat does Acts 26:15 mean?
Acts 26:15 records Paul’s question to the voice that stopped him on the road to Damascus, asking, “Who are you, Lord?” The voice answers, identifying itself as Jesus, the one Paul has been persecuting. This moment reveals to Paul that the risen Jesus himself is confronting him.
Paul is telling his story before King Agrippa, describing the moment when he encountered a blinding light and heard a voice from heaven. Paul’s question shows his confusion and awe, while the answer makes it clear that the person speaking is Jesus, connecting Paul’s actions against Christians directly to Jesus himself. This verse marks the turning point in Paul’s life, as he realizes he has been opposing the very one he thought he was serving.
The Greek behind Acts 26:15
- κύριος (kurios): This word is translated as “Lord.” In Greek, it can mean “master” or “sir,” but in this context, it carries a sense of divine authority, showing Paul’s recognition that the voice is from someone far greater than himself.
- Ἰησοῦς (Iēsous): This is the Greek form of “Jesus.” The voice’s self-identification leaves no doubt that it is Jesus speaking, not just a heavenly messenger.
- διώκεις (diōkeis): Translated as “persecutest,” this word means to pursue or harass. Jesus’ use of this word makes it clear that Paul’s actions against Jesus’ followers are seen as actions against Jesus himself.
Why Acts 26:15 matters
- Acts 26:15 clarifies that persecuting Christians is, in Jesus’ eyes, persecuting him personally, highlighting the close connection between Jesus and his followers.
- This verse is a key turning point in Paul’s story, marking the moment he realizes he has been fundamentally mistaken about Jesus and his mission.
- The verse sets up the rest of Paul’s testimony, showing how his encounter with Jesus led to his dramatic change from persecutor to apostle.