And there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias; and to him said the Lord in a vision, Ananias. And he said, Behold, I am here, Lord.

ACTS 9:10KJV
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Acts 9:10 (KJV)

What does Acts 9:10 mean?

Acts 9:10 introduces a disciple named Ananias in the city of Damascus, who receives a vision from the Lord calling his name. Ananias responds to the Lord by saying he is present and ready to listen.

In this verse, the story shifts from Saul’s journey to Damascus to focus on Ananias, a follower of Jesus living in that city. The Lord speaks directly to Ananias in a vision, showing a personal and direct form of communication. Ananias’s answer, “Behold, I am here, Lord,” shows his willingness to respond to God’s call, setting the stage for what he will be asked to do next.

The Greek behind Acts 9:10

  • μαθητής (mathētēs, “disciple”): This word means a learner or follower, emphasizing that Ananias is not just a believer but someone actively learning and following Jesus.
  • ὁ Κύριος (ho Kyrios, “the Lord”): This title is used for Jesus or God, highlighting the authority and divinity of the one speaking to Ananias.
  • ὅραμα (horama, “vision”): The Greek word for “vision” suggests a supernatural experience, not just a dream or thought, but a clear and vivid encounter with God’s message.

Why Acts 9:10 matters

  • Acts 9:10 shows that God uses ordinary disciples, not just apostles or leaders, to carry out important parts of His plan.
  • The verse highlights the personal relationship between God and His followers, as seen in the direct call and response between the Lord and Ananias.
  • This moment prepares the reader for the key role Ananias will play in Saul’s transformation, connecting the broader story of Saul’s conversion to the faithfulness of everyday believers.

Where else these words appear

“Ananias” Greek G367 · used in 10 verses

  • Acts 5:1 But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession,
  • Acts 9:12 And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight.
  • Acts 22:12 And one Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having a good report of all the Jews which dwelt there,

“vision” Greek G3705 · used in 12 verses

  • Matthew 17:9 And as they came down from the mountain, Jesus charged them, saying, Tell the vision to no man, until the Son of man be risen again from the dead.
  • Acts 10:3 He saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day an angel of God coming in to him, and saying unto him, Cornelius.
  • Acts 12:9 And he went out, and followed him; and wist not that it was true which was done by the angel; but thought he saw a vision.

“Damascus” Greek G1154 · used in 15 verses

  • Acts 9:2 And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem.
  • Acts 9:22 But Saul increased the more in strength, and confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is very Christ.
  • Acts 22:11 And when I could not see for the glory of that light, being led by the hand of them that were with me, I came into Damascus.