Tyndale Open Study NotesActs 22

Paul gives his most complete defense of his life and faith before his own people in Jerusalem. This speech shows his flexibility as a missionary, just as his message to the Greek philosophers in Athens also did (17:22–31; see 1 Corinthians 9:20–23).

He begins by showing his close connection with his audience. He explains his Jewish background and his training under Gamaliel the Elder (a respected Jewish teacher). He also describes his strong desire to honor God, a desire they shared (Acts 22:1–3).

Paul then recounts how he once persecuted Christians (22:4–5). He tells about seeing Jesus on the road to Damascus (22:6–10). and explains his conversion (his turning to follow Jesus; 22:11–16).

He ends by describing a vision in the temple, where the Lord spoke to him. The Lord told him that many Jews would reject the message and that he should go to the Gentiles (22:17–21).

at the feet of Gamaliel: See study note on 5:34.

Ananias: See study note on 9:17.

the Righteous One: See also 3:14; 7:52; 1 John 2:1. Righteousness was a key characteristic of the Messiah (see Isaiah 32:1; 53:11).

be baptized, and wash your sins away: See “Baptism” Theme Note.

While Paul was praying in the temple, he saw a vision of Jesus. Jesus told him that the people of Jerusalem would not accept his message. The Lord then sent him to the Gentiles. The crowd’s reaction to this report confirmed this reality (22:22–23).

The crowd shouted, threw off their coats, and tossed dust into the air. These actions were likely ritual responses to what they thought was blasphemy (speech that dishonors God). They strongly opposed Paul’s message, especially his claim that Gentiles were included among God's people (22:21). Compare with Luke 4:16–30.

Paul asserted his Roman citizenship at a crucial moment when he encountered torture to make him confess a supposed crime. Roman citizenship was valuable. Claiming it falsely was a capital offense. Its main benefits included protection from whipping and the right to appeal to the emperor (25:11). The commander was afraid because he had almost violated Roman law (compare 16:35–39).

I paid a high price: During the early rule of Roman emperor Claudius (AD 41–54), people could buy Roman citizenship, but it was expensive.