The commentaries of M. John Calvin upon the Acts of the Apostles, faithfully translated…The commentaries of M. Iohn Caluin vpon the Actes of the Apostles, faithfully translated…

10 And there was a certain disciple at Damascus called Ananias, unto whom the Lord said in a vision: Ananias. And he said: Here am I Lord. ⟨p. 216⟩11 And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the way that is called Straight: and seek in the house of Judas, one called Saul of Tarsus. For behold he prayeth. 12 And he hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias entering in, and laying his hand upon him that he might see.

10 And there was a certain disciple at Damascus called Ananias, vnto whom the Lord said in a vision: Ananias. And hee said: Here am I Lord. ⟨p. 216⟩11 And the Lorde saide vnto him, Arise, and goe into the way that is called Streight: and seeke in the house of Iudas, one called Saul of Tarsus. For behold he prayeth. 12 And he hath seene in a vision a man named Ananias entring in, and laying his hand vpon him that he might see.

10 We have said before that this man was rather chosen, than any of the Apostles, that Paul having laid away the swelling of his arrogance, might learn to hear the least, and that he come down from too great loftiness, even unto the lowest degree. And this vision was necessary for Ananias, least through fear he should withdraw himself from that function which was enjoined him, to wit, to teach Paul. For though he know that the Lord calleth him, yet he slideth back, or at least he excuseth himself. Therefore it was requisite, that he should have some certain testimony of his calling, that there should happy success be promised to his labour, that he might take that in hand with a joyful & valiant mind, which the Lord commanded. Furthermore, as Christ animateth and confirmeth Ananias, by appearing to him in the vision: so he prepareth and maketh Paul ready for all things, that he may receive Ananias reverently, as if he would receive an angel coming from heaven. The Lord could have sent Paul straightway unto Ananias, and have showed him his house, but this was more fit for his confirmation: because he knew the better, that the Lord had a care of him. And also the Lord setteth out his grace unto us, that as he stopped Paul before, so now he reacheth him his hand of his own accord, by his minister. And in the mean season we are also taught by his example, to be more ready and careful to seek out the lost sheep.