New Testament
Acts 9:11
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The Lord told him, "Get up and go to the street called Straight, and ask at the house of Judas for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying,
Compare translations
And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and enquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth,
What Acts 9:11 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, God speaks directly to a man named Ananias, giving him specific instructions. He is told to go to a street called Straight and find a man named Saul from Tarsus. Saul is currently praying, which indicates he is in a vulnerable and open state. This encounter is significant because Saul is known for persecuting Christians, yet God has a plan for him. Ananias is hesitant, but God reassures him that Saul is chosen for a special purpose. This passage highlights the importance of obedience to God's call, even when it seems daunting. It shows that God can transform anyone, regardless of their past. Ananias's willingness to follow God's direction leads to a pivotal moment in the early church. This story reminds us that God sees potential in people that we might overlook, and He often calls us to be part of that transformation process. Our willingness to act can lead to incredible changes in others' lives and our own. Trusting God's guidance can lead to unexpected and powerful outcomes.
How to apply Acts 9:11 to your life
When you feel called to do something challenging, remember Ananias. Trust that God has a purpose for you and others. Take a step of faith, even if it feels uncomfortable. Your actions can lead to significant changes in someone's life. Be open to God's direction in your daily life, and act on it with courage and faithfulness.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Paul's story: Ananias Restores Saul's Sight (Acts 9:10–19)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Paul
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Acts 9:11
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Acts 9:11
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 9:11 mean?
Acts 9:11 describes God's instruction to Ananias to find Saul of Tarsus on Straight Street. This moment signifies God's plan for Saul, who is praying and open to transformation despite his past as a persecutor of Christians.
What is the significance of the street called Straight in Acts 9:11?
The street called Straight is significant as it represents a literal location where Ananias is directed to find Saul. It symbolizes the direct path God has laid out for Saul's transformation and future ministry.
Who is Saul in Acts 9:11?
In Acts 9:11, Saul is a man from Tarsus who is known for persecuting Christians. This verse marks a turning point in his life as he is praying and preparing for a significant change that God has planned for him.
How does Acts 9:11 relate to obedience?
Acts 9:11 highlights the theme of obedience through Ananias's willingness to follow God's instructions despite his fears about Saul. It illustrates how obedience to God's call can lead to significant changes in others' lives.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.