Acts 9:6 - But rise up, and enter into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”

Generated Verse: Acts 9:6

What does "Acts 9:6" mean?


This verse, Acts 9:6, is part of the account of Saul's (later Paul) conversion on the road to Damascus. Let's break down what it means:

"But rise up..." This is a command to Saul, who has just been knocked to the ground by a blinding light and the voice of Jesus. It indicates that the encounter, though dramatic, is not meant to be debilitating or fatal. He needs to get up.

"...and enter into the city..." Saul is being instructed to go into Damascus, the very city he was heading to in order to persecute Christians. This is significant. He's being directed into the place where he previously held authority and animosity.

"...and you will be told what you must do." This is the core of the verse. It implies a few important things:
Future Guidance: God is not revealing everything to Saul at once. He will receive further instructions in Damascus.
Reliance on Others: He won't discover his purpose alone. He will be told by someone else (Ananias, as we later learn). This emphasizes the importance of community and guidance within the early church.
Divine Purpose: The instructions will reveal "what you must do." This highlights that Saul's life is about to change dramatically. He is being called to a specific task or mission ordained by God.
Humility: Saul, a man used to power and direction, must now humble himself and wait for instruction.

In essence, the verse signifies:

A Turning Point: Saul's life is irrevocably altered. He is no longer in control.
Submission to Divine Will: He must obey the command to go to Damascus and await further instructions.
A Future Calling: He is being called to a specific purpose, though the details are not yet revealed.
Dependence on God and the Church: He will receive guidance from God through the community of believers.

The verse marks the beginning of Paul's transformation from persecutor to apostle. It emphasizes that conversion is not just a moment of realization, but a process of ongoing obedience and learning. He is stepping into the unknown and must trust that God will reveal his path.