New Testament
Acts 9:5
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
"Who are you, Lord?" he asked. And the Lord said, "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for you to kick against the goads."
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And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.
What Acts 9:5 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Saul, who later becomes Paul, encounters a powerful presence. He asks, 'Who are you, Lord?' This question reveals his confusion and the weight of his actions. The response he receives is profound: 'I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.' This statement highlights the deep connection between Jesus and those who follow him. When Jesus says it is hard to kick against the goads, he refers to the futility of resisting a clear path. Goads were tools used to guide animals, and Saul's struggle against this guidance symbolizes his inner conflict. This encounter marks a turning point in Saul's life, leading him to a new understanding of faith and purpose. It emphasizes that rejecting the truth can lead to pain and struggle, while embracing it can lead to transformation. This moment is not just about Saul; it speaks to anyone who feels lost or is fighting against their own conscience. It invites us to consider how we respond to the truth in our lives and the changes we might need to make.
How to apply Acts 9:5 to your life
Reflect on your own life and consider if you are resisting a truth that could lead to positive change. Are there areas where you feel a struggle? Embrace the guidance available to you, and be open to transformation. Sometimes, acknowledging the truth is the first step toward a better path forward. Trust the process of change and growth in your life.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
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Illustrated scene from Paul's story: The Road to Damascus (Acts 9:1–9)
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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 9:5
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 9:5 mean?
Acts 9:5 describes Saul's encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus. Saul asks, 'Who are you, Lord?' and learns that he is persecuting Jesus by attacking his followers, highlighting the connection between Jesus and his disciples.
What is the significance of 'kicking against the goads' in Acts 9:5?
The phrase 'kicking against the goads' refers to the futility of resisting guidance. It symbolizes Saul's struggle against the truth and the inner conflict he faces as he opposes the message of Jesus.
Who is speaking in Acts 9:5?
In Acts 9:5, Saul is speaking to a divine presence, which is revealed to be Jesus. This moment marks a pivotal change in Saul's life, leading him to become Paul, a key figure in early Christianity.
What can we learn from Acts 9:5?
Acts 9:5 teaches us about the importance of acknowledging truth and the potential for transformation. It encourages reflection on our own struggles and the need to embrace guidance for positive change.
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