New Testament
Acts 9:27
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. He told them how Saul had seen the Lord on the road and that the Lord had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly in Damascus in the name of Jesus.
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But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus.
What Acts 9:27 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Barnabas steps in to support Saul, who had recently converted to following Jesus. Barnabas recognizes the potential in Saul, despite others' fears and doubts about his past. He takes Saul to meet the apostles, sharing the incredible story of Saul's encounter with the Lord on the road to Damascus. Barnabas explains how Saul has boldly preached about Jesus since that transformative moment. This act of advocacy is crucial, as it helps bridge the gap between Saul and the apostles, who were initially wary of him. Barnabas's encouragement and testimony highlight the importance of community and support in our journeys of faith. His actions remind us that everyone deserves a second chance and that we can help others find their place in a new community. This story illustrates the power of friendship and belief in one another, especially when facing skepticism or fear. Barnabas's role is a beautiful example of how we can uplift and empower those who are starting anew.
How to apply Acts 9:27 to your life
Consider how you can be a Barnabas in someone else's life. Look for opportunities to support those who are starting fresh or facing challenges. Your encouragement can make a significant difference in helping them find their place and purpose in a community. Be a source of hope and strength for others as they navigate their journeys of faith and life changes. Remember, everyone deserves a chance to grow and thrive in a supportive environment.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
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Illustrated scene from Paul's story: Barnabas Stands Up for Saul (Acts 9:26–30)
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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.
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Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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Keep studying Acts 9:27
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 9:27 mean?
Acts 9:27 describes how Barnabas advocates for Saul after his conversion to Christianity. Barnabas brings Saul to the apostles and shares his transformative experience of encountering Jesus, helping to alleviate their fears about Saul's past.
What is the significance of Barnabas in Acts 9:27?
Barnabas plays a crucial role in Acts 9:27 by supporting Saul and helping him connect with the apostles. His encouragement demonstrates the importance of community and support in overcoming skepticism and building relationships.
How does Acts 9:27 relate to the theme of community?
Acts 9:27 illustrates the theme of community by showing how Barnabas helps Saul integrate into the group of apostles. It highlights the need for support and acceptance in fostering growth and faith.
What can we learn from Acts 9:27?
From Acts 9:27, we learn the value of being supportive and encouraging to those who are starting anew. It reminds us that everyone deserves a chance to be accepted and that our actions can help others find their place in a community.
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