Overview of the Verse

Acts 22:10 captures a pivotal moment in the Apostle Paul's life, detailing his encounter with Christ on the road to Damascus. This verse illustrates Paul's humble submission to divine authority and sets the stage for his transformative journey in service to God. The response of 'What shall I do, Lord?' signifies a deep recognition of God's will and direction.

Commentary Insights

Based on various public domain commentaries, we can summarize the meaning of this verse:

• Matthew Henry's Commentary:

  Henry emphasizes the importance of obedience and guidance from God. Paul's inquiry showcases the appropriate attitude of a servant responding to their master. The directive to go into Damascus serves as a moment of redirection and revelation for Paul, who had been blinded by his previous zeal in persecuting Christians.

• Albert Barnes' Notes:

  Barnes discusses the significance of Paul's immediate response to God’s call. His question symbolizes not only readiness but also a desire for purpose. The phrase "it shall be told thee" suggests that God has plans for Paul that will be revealed as he obeys, emphasizing the unfolding nature of divine guidance.

• Adam Clarke's Commentary:

  Clarke elaborates on the notion of divine ordination, where the Lord not only commands but also prepares and equips Paul for his future ministry. Clarke notes the transition from persecution to commissioning, highlighting God's sovereignty in using even the most unlikely individuals for His purposes.

Bible Cross-References

Acts 22:10 can be connected to several significant Bible verses that deepen the understanding of God’s call and purpose:

• Acts 9:6 - Paul (then Saul) is directed to arise and enter the city, echoing the command to act upon receiving guidance from God.
• Romans 12:1-2 - Throws light on the concept of presenting oneself to God, reflecting Paul’s submission and transformation.
• Matthew 4:19 - Illustrates the call to discipleship; much like Peter and Andrew, Paul is called to a mission that enhances the kingdom.
• Isaiah 6:8 - Resonates with the theme of availability to God’s call, "Here I am, send me," similar to Paul’s response.
• John 10:27 - Emphasizes the relationship between the shepherd and his sheep, where followers recognize and respond to God's leading.
• Psalms 143:10 - A prayer for guidance in doing God’s will, reflective of Paul’s desire to know what he should do next.
• Philippians 3:13-14 - Highlights the pursuit of God’s calling, paralleling Paul's journey towards the goal set before him.

Thematic Connections

The themes in Acts 22:10 correlate strongly with concepts of:

• Diligence in Seeking Guidance: Emphasizing the importance of asking God for direction in one’s life.
• Transformation: Acts 22:10 is a cornerstone for understanding how encountering Christ leads to life changes.
• Obedience to God’s Call: This sets a significant precedent for responding faithfully to divine instructions.

Study Insights

This verse, along with its commentaries and connections, encourages deeper exploration of the sequential verse relationships and themes throughout Scripture. Utilizing tools for Bible cross-referencing can illuminate how Acts 22:10 links to broader biblical narratives of calling and discipleship.

Here are some suggestions for enhancing your study:

• Use a Bible concordance to find related themes and verses on divine calling.
• Engage in cross-reference Bible study methods to discover interconnections between Paul’s mission and other scripture narratives.
• Study similarities between the teachings of Jesus in the Gospels and Paul’s apostolic messages in his letters.

Conclusion

Acts 22:10 serves as a profound reminder of the divine calling each believer receives. The response of Paul, acknowledging God's authority and expressing his desire for direction, encapsulates the essence of faith and obedience. This verse not only demonstrates Paul's pivotal transition but also invites believers today to reflect upon their own call to service and what God may be asking them to do.