Acts 26:16

Acts 26:16 Meaning and Explanation

But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee;

King James Version (KJV)

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The Lord commands Paul to rise and appoints him a minister and witness of what he has seen and will see.

What Does Acts 26:16 Mean?

The Lord does not leave Paul on the ground. He commands him to rise and stand, then gives him a commission: to be a servant and a witness of what he has now seen and of what Christ will yet reveal to him.

Grace lifts and then sends. The same encounter that humbles Paul also commissions him. He is not merely forgiven but entrusted with a calling, made a witness of the risen Lord. Christ does not save us only to leave us still; He raises us up and gives us purpose.

Acts 26:16 in the Original Language

hyperetes (ὑπηρέτης), 'minister, servant' -- originally an under-rower on a ship, one who serves under the direction of another.

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What does Acts 26:16 mean?

The Lord commands Paul to rise and appoints him a minister and witness of what he has seen and will see.

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