Charles Ellicott Commentary Acts 9:22

"But Saul increased the more in strength, and confounded the Jews that dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is the Christ." — Acts 9:22 (ASV)

But Saul increased even more in strength: the tense implies a continuous growth in power—obviously, in the spiritual power that enabled the Apostle to carry on his work.

A comparison of dates suggests this growth is connected to the special vision mentioned in 2 Corinthians 12:8. In answer to his prayer concerning the infirmity he describes as a thorn in his flesh, the minister of Satan to buffet him, he received the comforting assurance from the Lord whom he served: My strength is made perfect in weakness.

It is noteworthy that in later years St. Paul repeatedly uses the same verb of himself: I can do all things in Christ that strengthened me (Philippians 4:13).

It was Christ who enabled him, or, made him strong, for his ministry (1 Timothy 1:12); who strengthened him in the closing trials of his life (2 Timothy 4:17). By some commentators, the words are connected with the journey to Arabia after his first appearance as a preacher in the synagogues; but see the note on the previous verse.