Acts 26:10

And that is what I did in Jerusalem. With authority from the chief priests I put many of the saints in prison, and when they were condemned to death, I cast my vote against them.

Study Bible

And that is what I did in Jerusalem
This phrase marks a confession by Paul, formerly known as Saul, regarding his actions before his conversion to Christianity. The city of Jerusalem holds significant historical and religious importance as the center of Jewish worship and the early Christian church. Paul's actions in Jerusalem were pivotal, as it was the heart of Jewish authority and the birthplace of the Christian movement. His acknowledgment here is a testament to the transformative power of Christ, as he admits to his past zeal against the followers of Jesus.

With the authority of the chief priests
The "chief priests" were the leading religious authorities in Judaism, responsible for temple rituals and maintaining religious law. Paul's authority from them indicates his high standing and zealous commitment to Jewish law. The Greek term for "authority" (ἐξουσία, exousia) implies a delegated power, showing that Paul was acting under the official sanction of the Jewish leadership. This highlights the institutional opposition the early Christians faced and underscores the radical change in Paul's life after his encounter with Christ.

I put many of the saints in prison
The term "saints" (ἅγιοι, hagioi) refers to the early Christians, those set apart for God. Paul's actions against them were severe, as imprisonment was a common method to suppress dissent and maintain religious purity. This phrase reflects the intense persecution the early church endured, and Paul's role in it emphasizes the depth of his former opposition to the Christian faith. It also serves as a powerful reminder of the grace and forgiveness available through Christ, as Paul, once a persecutor, became a leading apostle.

and when they were put to death
This phrase indicates the extreme measures taken against Christians, including capital punishment. The early church faced life-threatening persecution, and Paul's involvement in these actions underscores the seriousness of his former opposition. Historically, this reflects the tension between the nascent Christian movement and the established Jewish religious order. It also foreshadows the martyrdom that many early Christians would face, standing firm in their faith despite the threat of death.

I cast my vote against them
The act of casting a vote (καταφέρω ψῆφον, katafero psephon) suggests a formal decision-making process, possibly within the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council. Paul's participation in these decisions highlights his influential role in the persecution of Christians. This phrase serves as a sobering reminder of the judicial and systemic nature of the early church's persecution. It also illustrates the profound change in Paul's life, from a persecutor to a proponent of the faith he once sought to destroy, demonstrating the transformative power of God's grace.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul (formerly Saul)
The apostle recounting his past actions against Christians before his conversion. He was a zealous Pharisee who persecuted the early church.

2. Jerusalem
The city where Paul carried out his persecution of Christians. It was the center of Jewish religious life and the early Christian church.

3. Chief Priests
Jewish religious leaders who held significant authority and were instrumental in the persecution of Christians. They provided Paul with the authority to imprison believers.

4. Saints
Early Christians who were targeted by Paul. The term "saints" refers to those set apart for God, highlighting their dedication and holiness.

5. Imprisonment and Death
The severe persecution faced by early Christians, including imprisonment and execution, with Paul actively participating in these actions.

Teaching Points

The Transformative Power of Grace
Paul's life demonstrates that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace. His transformation from persecutor to apostle is a testament to the power of God's mercy and forgiveness.

The Cost of Discipleship
The early Christians faced severe persecution, reminding us that following Christ may involve suffering and sacrifice. We are called to remain faithful even in the face of adversity.

The Importance of Repentance
Paul's account highlights the importance of repentance and turning away from past sins. True repentance involves a change of heart and direction, leading to a life dedicated to Christ.

The Role of Authority in Persecution
The involvement of the chief priests shows how religious authority can be misused to persecute believers. We must discern and stand firm in our faith, even when faced with opposition from authority figures.

The Call to Witness
Despite his past, Paul became a powerful witness for Christ. We are called to share our testimonies and the gospel, trusting that God can use our past for His glory.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Paul's past as a persecutor of Christians impact your understanding of God's grace and forgiveness?

2. In what ways can the early Christians' response to persecution inspire you in your own faith journey?

3. Reflect on a time when you faced opposition for your faith. How did you respond, and what can you learn from Paul's transformation?

4. How can we ensure that we are using our authority and influence to support, rather than hinder, the spread of the gospel?

5. What steps can you take to become a more effective witness for Christ, considering Paul's example of transformation and testimony?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 8:1-3
Describes Saul's role in the persecution of the church, including the stoning of Stephen, which provides context for his actions in Acts 26:10.

Philippians 3:6
Paul reflects on his past zeal in persecuting the church, showing his transformation from a persecutor to an apostle.

1 Timothy 1:13-16
Paul acknowledges his past as a blasphemer and persecutor, emphasizing God's mercy and grace in his life.