The literal Greek expression “he was with the governor” (see Revised Standard Version) is understood by the Good News Translation to mean he was a friend of the Governor. Certain other translations take this phrase to indicate that “he was a member of the court of the governor.” Despite considerable uncertainty as to the evidence, scholars believe on the basis of nonbiblical sources that Sergius Paulus became a well known leader in Christian circles, and that both his daughter and son were distinguished by their devotion to the Christian faith. Governor (most translations employ “proconsul”) was the title given one who was in charge of a Roman senatorial province. In the book of Acts two such officials are mentioned by name: Sergius Paulus of Cyprus (13.7) and Gallio of Achaia (18.12). See also 19.38.

The term intelligent refers to the mental capacities of the Governor … Sergius Paulus. In a number of instances the closest equivalent is “he was a wise man” or as in some languages “he understood things well.”

The expression called … before him must be understood in a sense of “invited” rather than “commanded.”

Quoted with permission from Newman, Barclay M. and Nida, Eugene A. A Handbook on The Acts of the Apostles. (UBS Handbook Series). New York: UBS, 1972. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .