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The disciples let Saul down by a rope usually used to transfer people from one ship to another
at sea. Saul is let down over the wall in a remote area where it is difficult for anyone to observe
his escape. This location is far from the gates, and the Jews watch for many days, not realizing
Saul has already escaped.

BARNABAS CONFIRMS SAUL’S CONVERSION

Act 9:26 And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but
they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple.

These are the same disciples Saul had tried to kill just a few years earlier. They still fear him.

Act 9:27 But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how
he had seen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached
boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus.

Barnabas is a forgiving man. He operates in the grace of God (4:30) and will be the one who
quickly forgives John Mark when he fails on the first missionary journey (15:38-39). He now
defends this new convert before his accusers. Barnabas most likely reminded them of the grace
of God, which extends forgiveness and salvation to them.

Every child of God begins as a sinner and we cannot blame or condemn others for their evil
past. Once a sinner has confessed Jesus, it doesn’t take long before the fruits of his
righteousness become apparent. Saul has demonstrated these fruits of righteousness in his life.

Barnabas testifies to the reality of it is as evidenced in Paul’s preaching, teaching, and the signs
and wonders performed through him in the city of Damascus.

Act 9:28 And he was with them coming in and going out at Jerusalem.

Saul wins the confidence of the people by association before he ever speaks in the church at
Jerusalem.

Act 9:29 And he spake boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus, and disputed against the Grecians:
but they went about to slay him.

And he spoke boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus, and disputed against the Grecians
(Hellenists: Greek-speaking Jews): but they went about to slay him.

Apparently, the church has experienced trouble with the Hellenistic leaders. They can handle
the religious Jews, but the converted Jews could debate them and win! Saul however argues so
convincingly against them, they resort to violence in an attempt to stop him.

Saul’s gift is to the Gentiles (Galatians 2:7) as revealed in this verse.

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