Acts 13:8 Made Simple

KJV ORIGINAL

But Elymas the sorcerer (for so is his name by interpretation) withstood them, seeking to turn away the deputy from the faith.

Close to the original. Clear modern English.

✦ MADE SIMPLE

But Elymas the sorcerer (that's what his name means) fought against them, trying to convince the governor to reject the faith.

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

Some people will always try to talk others out of believing, don't let them win.

📚 Historical Context

In the book of Acts, Paul and Barnabas are on their first missionary journey, traveling to Cyprus where they meet Sergius Paulus, the Roman proconsul who is interested in hearing the gospel. Elymas, a Jewish sorcerer also known as Bar-Jesus, opposes them because he serves as an advisor to the proconsul and fears losing his influence over him. This incident illustrates the early church's frequent encounters with spiritual opposition as the message of Christ spread to new regions.

Explore Similar Verses

Acts 8:11

They followed him because he'd been using magic tricks and illusions to mess with their heads for years.

Acts 8:9

Now there was this guy named Simon who had been doing magic tricks and basically scamming people in Samaria for a while. He had everyone fooled, acting like he was some kind of big deal spiritual leader.

Matthew 28:14

And if the governor finds out about this, we'll handle him and make sure you're protected.

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📚 Historical Context

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