Acts 26:14

We all fell to the ground, and I heard a voice say to me in Hebrew, 'Saul, Saul, why do you persecute Me? It is hard for you to kick against the goads.'

Study Bible

We all fell to the ground
This phrase indicates a collective experience shared by Saul and his companions. The act of falling to the ground is often associated with a divine encounter or revelation in the Bible, symbolizing humility and the overwhelming presence of God. In the Greek, the word "fell" (πίπτω, piptō) suggests a sudden and involuntary action, emphasizing the power and authority of the divine presence that caused this reaction. Historically, such experiences are consistent with theophanies, where individuals are struck by the majesty and holiness of God.

I heard a voice
Hearing a voice from heaven is a significant motif in Scripture, often marking a moment of divine communication or calling. The Greek word for "heard" (ἀκούω, akouō) implies not just hearing but understanding and receiving a message. This auditory experience is personal and direct, indicating that God communicates in ways that are unmistakable and tailored to the individual. The voice Saul hears is not just any voice but the voice of the risen Christ, marking a pivotal moment in his life and mission.

say to me in Hebrew
The specification that the voice spoke "in Hebrew" is noteworthy. Hebrew, or Aramaic, was the language of the Jewish people, and its use here underscores the personal and cultural connection between Saul and the message he receives. It also highlights the authenticity and authority of the message, as it comes in a language that Saul, a Pharisee and scholar of the Law, would understand deeply. This detail emphasizes the personal nature of God's call and the importance of cultural context in divine communication.

‘Saul, Saul, why do you persecute Me?’
The repetition of Saul's name is significant, as it conveys urgency and personal attention. In biblical narratives, the repetition of a name often precedes a profound revelation or calling (e.g., "Moses, Moses" in Exodus 3:4). The question "why do you persecute Me?" is profound, as it identifies Jesus with His followers, the Church. The Greek word for "persecute" (διώκω, diōkō) means to pursue or harass, indicating that Saul's actions against Christians are seen as direct actions against Christ Himself. This highlights the intimate connection between Christ and His body, the Church, and serves as a powerful reminder of the unity and solidarity within the Christian faith.

It is hard for you to kick against the goads
This phrase is a proverbial expression, likely familiar to Saul, that describes the futility and self-destructive nature of resisting divine will. A "goad" is a sharp stick used to drive oxen, and "kicking against the goads" would only result in pain for the animal. The Greek term for "goads" (κέντρον, kentron) conveys the idea of a sharp point or sting. This metaphor suggests that Saul's efforts to oppose the followers of Christ are ultimately harmful to himself and contrary to God's purpose. It serves as a call to surrender and align with God's will, illustrating the futility of resisting divine guidance and the peace that comes from submission to God's plan.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Saul/Paul
Originally known as Saul, he was a zealous Pharisee who persecuted Christians. After his conversion, he became Paul, a leading apostle spreading the Gospel.

2. Jesus
The voice speaking to Saul is identified as Jesus, who confronts Saul about his persecution of Christians, indicating that such actions are against Jesus Himself.

3. The Road to Damascus
This event occurs on the road to Damascus, where Saul was traveling to arrest Christians. It is a pivotal moment leading to his conversion.

4. The Companions
Those traveling with Saul also fell to the ground, witnessing the event, though they did not hear the voice as Saul did.

5. The Goads
A metaphor used by Jesus, referring to a sharp stick used to drive oxen, symbolizing the futility and pain of resisting divine will.

Teaching Points

Divine Intervention
God can intervene in the lives of even the most unlikely individuals, transforming them for His purposes. Saul's conversion is a testament to God's power and grace.

Resistance to God's Will
The metaphor of "kicking against the goads" illustrates the futility and self-inflicted pain of resisting God's direction. Believers are encouraged to submit to God's will.

Personal Encounter with Christ
Saul's experience underscores the importance of a personal encounter with Jesus, which can lead to profound life changes.

Persecution of the Church
Persecuting believers is equated with persecuting Christ Himself, highlighting the unity between Jesus and His followers.

Transformation and Mission
Saul's transformation into Paul demonstrates that God can use anyone, regardless of their past, to fulfill His mission.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Saul's encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus challenge our understanding of who can be used by God for His purposes?

2. In what ways might we be "kicking against the goads" in our own lives, resisting God's direction or calling?

3. How does Paul's transformation from persecutor to apostle encourage us in our own spiritual journeys and struggles?

4. What does this passage teach us about the relationship between Jesus and His followers, especially in the context of persecution?

5. How can we apply the lessons from Saul's conversion to our approach in sharing the Gospel with others who may seem resistant or hostile?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 9:3-6
Provides the initial account of Saul's conversion experience, offering additional details about the encounter with Jesus.

1 Corinthians 15:9-10
Paul reflects on his past as a persecutor and the grace of God that transformed him, emphasizing the power of divine intervention.

Philippians 3:4-7
Paul discusses his former life and credentials, which he now considers loss for the sake of Christ, illustrating his complete transformation.