Acts 9:22

22 But Saul much the more waxed strong, and confounded the Jews that dwelled at Damascus, and affirmed that this is Christ [affirming for this is Christ].

Acts 9:22 Meaning and Commentary

Acts 9:22

But Saul increased the more in strength
Not of body, but of mind; his gifts and graces, and spiritual light and knowledge increased; his abilities were greater; his fortitude of mind, boldness, and freedom of speech, every day increased: he got more, and new, and fresh arguments, by which he himself was confirmed, and he confirmed others in the truths of Christ. Some copies read, "he was more strengthened in the word"; either in the word of God, having a clearer understanding, and being more confirmed in the truth of it; or in speech, being more ready and powerful in speaking it.

And confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus;
confuted them, and put them to silence, so that they had nothing to say for themselves, or against the truth:

proving that this is very Christ;
by joining and knitting passages of Scripture in the Old Testament together, by producing and citing express testimonies from thence, and by comparing the prophecies and the characters of the Messiah in them, with Jesus of Nazareth, he proved to a demonstration that he must be the Messiah.

Acts 9:22 In-Context

20 And at once [And anon] he entered into the synagogues, and preached the Lord Jesus, for this is the Son of God.

21 And all men that heard him, wondered, and said, Whether this is not he that impugned in Jerusalem them that called to help this name? and hither he came for this thing [and hither for this thing he came], that he should lead them bound to the princes of priests?

22 But Saul much the more waxed strong, and confounded the Jews that dwelled at Damascus, and affirmed that this is Christ [affirming for this is Christ].

23 And when many days were filled [were fulfilled], Jews made a counsel, that they should slay him.

24 And the ambushes of them were made known to Saul. And they kept the gates day and night, that they should slay him.