Acts 13:7
What does Acts 13:7 mean?
A plain-English look at Acts 13:7 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Acts 13:7 means
Bar-Jesus, the sorcerer, was associated with the proconsul Sergius Paulus, a Roman official described as a 'man of understanding.' This detail is important, highlighting that the gospel was reaching into the highest echelons of Roman society. Sergius Paulus, recognizing the significance of Barnabas and Saul's message, earnestly sought to hear the word of God. This indicates an open heart and a genuine search for truth, contrasting sharply with the deceptive nature of Bar-Jesus. His high office provided an influential platform for the gospel.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000who was with the proconsul, Sergius Paulus, a man of understanding. The same called unto him Barnabas and Saul, and sought to hear the word of God.
KJV
King James Version · 1611Which was with the deputy of the country, Sergius Paulus, a prudent man; who called for Barnabas and Saul, and desired to hear the word of God.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901who was with the proconsul, Sergius Paulus, a man of understanding. The same called unto him Barnabas and Saul, and sought to hear the word of God.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949Who was with the ruler, Sergius Paulus, an able man. This man sent for Barnabas and Saul, desiring to have knowledge of the word of God.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862who was with the proconsul Sergius Paulus, an intelligent man; this one having called for Barnabas and Saul, did desire to hear the word of God,
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752Who was with the proconsul Sergius Paulus, a prudent man. He, sending for Barnabas and Saul, desired to hear the word of God.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890who was with the proconsul Sergius Paulus, an intelligent man. He, having called Barnabas and Saul to [him], desired to hear the word ofGod.
Context
Having introduced Bar-Jesus in verse 6, this verse immediately places him in a position of influence with the Roman proconsul, Sergius Paulus. The proconsul's positive interest in hearing the word of God sets up the impending conflict. This context is crucial because it explains why the sorcerer, Elymas, would actively try to obstruct Paul and Barnabas in verse 8; the proconsul’s receptiveness posed a direct threat to Elymas's spiritual and social influence.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Proverbs 14:15
The simple believeth every word; But the prudent man looketh well to his going.
- Acts 17:11
Now these were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, examining the scriptures daily, whether these things were so.
- Acts 19:38
If therefore Demetrius, and the craftsmen that are with him, have a matter against any man, the courts are open, and there are proconsuls: let them accuse one another.
- 1 Thessalonians 5:21
prove all things; hold fast that which is good;
- Proverbs 18:15
The heart of the prudent getteth knowledge; And the ear of the wise seeketh knowledge.
- Proverbs 14:18
The simple inherit folly; But the prudent are crowned with knowledge.
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