Act 26:17-18 | RWP | e4.org | Delivering thee ( εξαιρουμενος σε ). Present middle participle of εξαιρεω , old verb and usually so rendered, but the old Greek also uses it for "choose" as also in LXX ( ). The papyri give examples of both meanings and either makes good sense here. God was continually rescuing Paul "out of the hands of Jews and Gentiles and Paul was a chosen vessel" ( ). Modern scholars are also divided.

‏ Acts 26:17-18

Delivering thee ( εξαιρουμενος σε ). Present middle participle of εξαιρεω, old verb and usually so rendered, but the old Greek also uses it for "choose" as also in LXX (Isa 48:10). The papyri give examples of both meanings and either makes good sense here. God was continually rescuing Paul "out of the hands of Jews and Gentiles and Paul was a chosen vessel" (9:15). Modern scholars are also divided.

To open ( ανοιξα ). First aorist active infinitive of purpose.

That they may turn ( του επιστρεψα ). Another infinitive of purpose first aorist active (genitive case and articular), epexegetic to ανοιξα.

That they may receive ( του λαβειν ). Another genitive articular infinitive of purpose subordinate (epexegetic) to του επιστρεψα.

Sanctified by faith in me ( ηγιασμενοις πιστε τη εις εμε ). Perfect passive participle of αγιαζω, instrumental case of πιστε, article before εις εμε ("by faith, that in me"). These important words of Jesus to Paul give his justification to this cultured audience for his response to the command of Jesus. This was the turning point in Paul's career and it was a step forward and upward.