Definition: Whereupon as I went to Damascus with authority and commission from the chief priests,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that verse from Acts 26:12. It's a really important part of Paul’s story! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: “Whereupon as I went to Damascus with authority and commission from the chief priests,” This is essentially how Paul was traveling when he arrived in Damascus. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Whereupon as…” : This phrase indicates a specific reason or context. It's like saying "When..." or “In this situation...” “I went to Damascus with authority and commission from the chief priests” : This tells us Paul was traveling to a city called Damascus. And he wasn’t just any traveler. He had been given special permission – authority – and instructions by the leaders of the Jewish religious community (the “chief priests”). They were basically in charge of religious matters, and they gave him this special assignment. So, putting it all together, the verse means: “When I was traveling to Damascus, with the authority and instructions from the leadership of the Jewish elders, I was already already in a position where I was being given something significant.” What’s the significance? This is crucial because it explains why Paul was initially arrested and facing accusations. The chief priests were worried about him – they thought he might be a threat to their religious order. But, having been given permission before he even arrived in Damascus, this gives them a reason to be suspicious of him. In short, the verse sets up the stage for Paul's transformation and his eventual conversion to Christianity. It highlights that his authority was already established and that this early assignment played a key role in his journey. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context about what happened in Damascus?