New Testament
Acts 26:14
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
We all fell to the ground, and I heard a voice speaking to me in the Hebrew language, 'Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me? It is hard for you to kick against the goads.'
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And when we were all fallen to the earth, I heard a voice speaking unto me, and saying in the Hebrew tongue, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.
What Acts 26:14 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Saul, who later became Paul, experienced a profound encounter. As he and his companions fell to the ground, he heard a voice speaking directly to him in Hebrew. This voice, identified as Jesus, questioned Saul's actions of persecuting His followers. The phrase 'kicking against the goads' refers to resisting guidance or direction, suggesting that Saul was fighting against a deeper truth. This moment marked a turning point in Saul's life, leading him to realize the error of his ways. It highlights the importance of listening to the truth, even when it challenges our beliefs. Saul's transformation from persecutor to apostle illustrates how a personal encounter with truth can change one's life dramatically. This story encourages us to reflect on our own lives and consider how we respond to the truths we encounter, especially when they challenge us. It reminds us that we are all called to seek understanding and to be open to change, even when it feels uncomfortable.
How to apply Acts 26:14 to your life
Consider areas in your life where you might be resisting change or truth. Reflect on how you respond to challenges and whether you are open to new perspectives. Embrace the opportunity for growth and transformation that comes from listening to the truth, even when it's difficult. Seek guidance and be willing to change your path if necessary. Trust that this process can lead to a more fulfilling life and purpose in your journey.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
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Illustrated scene from Paul's story: The Road to Damascus (Acts 26:12–18)
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Paul
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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Keep studying Acts 26:14
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Acts
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 62
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Acts 26:14 mean?
Acts 26:14 describes Saul's dramatic encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus. It highlights Saul's realization of his wrong actions in persecuting Christians and emphasizes the struggle between resisting truth and accepting guidance.
What is the meaning of 'kicking against the goads' in Acts 26:14?
The phrase 'kicking against the goads' means resisting guidance or direction. In this context, it suggests that Saul was fighting against the truth and the conviction he felt about his actions.
Why did Jesus address Saul in Hebrew in Acts 26:14?
Jesus spoke to Saul in Hebrew to connect with him personally and meaningfully. This choice of language emphasizes the significance of the moment and Saul's Jewish background.
How does Acts 26:14 relate to personal transformation?
Acts 26:14 illustrates how a profound encounter with truth can lead to significant personal transformation. Saul's experience serves as a reminder of the potential for change when one confronts their beliefs and actions.
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