What does Acts 22:21 mean?

Explanation

Acts 22:21 refers to a pivotal moment in the life and mission of Saul, later known as Paul.

The verse reads, "And he said unto me, Depart: for I will send thee far hence unto the Gentiles." This is part of a larger narrative where Paul recounts his conversion experience on the road to Damascus and his subsequent call to ministry.

Here, Paul is relating a vision where Jesus instructs him to leave Jerusalem due to the disbelief and hostility he was facing from the Jewish population.

Instead, Paul is commissioned to take the message of the Gospel to the Gentiles – the non-Jewish people.

This verse signifies a significant shift in early Christian mission, expanding the reach of the Gospel from a predominantly Jewish audience to a universal one. It underscores the inclusivity of the Christian faith and the divine mandate for the message to transcend ethnic and cultural boundaries.

Historical Context

This verse occurs within Paul's defense speech before a hostile audience in Jerusalem.

During the time of its composition, there was great tension between the Jewish followers of Jesus, who saw themselves as reformers within Judaism, and the emerging Christian movement that was increasingly composed of Gentile converts.

The conversion of Gentiles was a contentious issue because it brought into question the necessity of following Jewish law as a prerequisite for following Jesus.

Paul, a Pharisee and former persecutor of Christians, after his conversion became an apostle to the Gentiles.

His mission took him throughout the Roman Empire, into environments that were religiously and culturally diverse.

His calling to the Gentiles was revolutionary for the time and changed the trajectory of the spread of Christianity.

Theological Insights

Different theological viewpoints give diverse insights into this verse.

From a traditional Christian perspective, this command from Jesus asserts the universal mission of the church, foreshadowing the worldwide spread of Christianity.

To Calvinists or those believing in predestination, the verse may reflect God's sovereign choice in calling Paul to be an apostle to the Gentiles.

Catholic theology might emphasize the magisterium of the church in discerning the direction of missionary work, with Paul as an early leader obeying divine guidance.

Some theologians may interpret this verse as highlighting the grace of God extending to all peoples, emphasizing the breaking down of the barriers between Jews and Gentiles.

Liberation theologians might see this verse as a testament to God's concern for those who are on the margins of society, challenging the religious exclusivity of the time.

Practical Applications

Acts 22:21 calls individuals and communities to consider their own willingness to reach beyond their comfort zones to share their beliefs or values.

It encourages inclusivity and openness to diverse groups of people.

Missionally, this verse can be a foundational principle for cross-cultural outreach and engagement with others who are different from oneself.

In everyday life, the verse may inspire believers to engage with others in their communities who may feel marginalized or neglected. It calls for a spirit of acceptance and understanding, breaking down social barriers and prejudices.

Cross-References

• Acts 9:15: "But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel."
• Acts 13:46-47: "Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, and said, It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you: but seeing ye put it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles."
• Romans 11:13: "For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office."
• Ephesians 3:6: "That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel."

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the phrase "I will send thee far hence unto the Gentiles" uses important words such as "pempo" (send) which can imply being commissioned with authority.

The term "ethnos" (Gentiles) denotes nations or people groups distinct from the Jewish people. This conveys a sense of Paul's official and divinely ordained mission to various cultures.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The theme of a religious figure being sent to preach to other nations is not unique to Christianity.

In comparison, the story of the prophet Jonah in Judaism also tells of a reluctant prophet sent to a foreign city, Nineveh.

In Islam, the Prophet Muhammad is considered a messenger for all of humanity, not just the Arab people.

Acts 22:21 differs in that it showcases an expansion of a faith group beyond its ethnic origins, emphasizing that the Christian message is not confined to a single culture or people.

Scientific Perspectives

While the verse itself does not directly intersect with scientific perspectives, its principle of reaching out across cultural divides can complement social science concepts such as inclusivity, multiculturalism, and diversity.

These concepts are studied in fields like sociology and anthropology, which analyze how societies operate and interact with different cultures and beliefs.

Commentaries

Commentators on this verse offer various insights.

John Stott, a notable New Testament scholar, emphasized the significance of Paul being sent specifically to the Gentiles as a clear indication of God's plan for the inclusivity of the gospel.

F.F.

Bruce, another biblical scholar, elucidates the historical context of Jewish hostility towards Paul's mission to the Gentiles, which provides the backdrop for Paul's speech.

Matthew Henry's commentary underscores the obedience required of Paul to leave Jerusalem and embark on his new mission, despite any personal reservations he might have had.

Contemporary theologians continue to discuss this verse in light of modern challenges of evangelism and cross-cultural missions.