What does Acts 13:15 mean?

And after the reading of the law and the prophets the rulers of the synagogue sent unto them, saying, Ye men and brethren, if ye have any word of exhortation for the people, say on. Acts 13:15

Explanation

Acts 13:15 recounts a moment during a Sabbath service in a synagogue in Antioch of Pisidia. The service structure included the reading of the “law” (Torah) and “prophets” (Nevi’im), which are parts of the Hebrew Scriptures. After these readings, it was customary to have a sermon or exhortation. The leaders or “rulers of the synagogue” then offer Paul and his companions the opportunity to speak. This invitation suggests that they were recognized as visitors with a background in Jewish teaching or as men of God with insights to share. It also suggests an openness within the synagogue to hearing a word from visiting Jews about God and his works.

Historical Context

During the first century A.D., the synagogue was not only a place for worship but also a center for community gathering and the study of Scripture. The pattern of service likely included prayer, reading of the Scriptures, and a sermon or teaching. The invitation extended by the synagogue rulers reflects the practice of extending hospitality and the chance for visiting teachers to share a message. Paul, as a former Pharisee with formidable knowledge of the Jewish Scriptures, would have been a respected voice in this context.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse illustrates the sovereignty of God in opening doors for the apostles to preach. The early dissemination of the gospel often unfolded in contexts where the ground had been prepared by Jewish tradition and Scriptures. It also serves as an example of the early Christian leaders’ respect for Jewish customs and their willingness to begin their teaching within that framework.

Practical Applications

This verse highlights the importance of being prepared to share a message of faith when given the opportunity. Believers can take from this the need to be ready and willing to speak about spiritual matters, drawing on their study and understanding of the Scriptures. It also suggests the value of politeness and recognition of the customs and authority structures in various settings.

Cross-References

• Luke 4:16-21: Jesus reading from the book of Isaiah in the synagogue and explaining it.
• Acts 13:46-47: Paul and Barnabas speaking boldly in the synagogue.
• Acts 17:2: Paul, as his manner was, went in unto them, and three Sabbath days reasoned with them out of the scriptures.
• Nehemiah 8:8: The Scripture reading and explanation in the times of Ezra and Nehemiah.
• 2 Timothy 4:2: Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season.

Language Study

The key words to consider in the original Greek are:

• “law” (νόμος, nomos): This term refers to the Pentateuch, the first five books of the Hebrew Bible.
• “prophets” (προφήτης, prophētēs): The term refers to the other writings in the Hebrew Bible (like Isaiah, Jeremiah, etc.) considered prophetic.
• “rulers of the synagogue” (ἀρχισυνάγωγος, archisynagōgos): This refers to the leaders of the synagogue service, those who have authority over the congregation and its activities.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the broader cultural and religious context, this event resembles other ancient traditions where leaders would invite sages, philosophers, or visiting dignitaries to share their wisdom or perspectives in synagogues, temples, or learning circles.

Scientific Perspectives

This verse does not directly intersect with scientific understandings but relates to the sociological aspects of religion as it discusses the role of religious institutions (like the synagogue) in the dissemination and discussion of spiritual ideas.

Commentaries

Commentaries on Acts 13:15 generally emphasize the following:

• The leadership structure of the synagogue, where rulers had the authority to invite others to speak.
• The strategic approach of Paul and his companions in using this platform to share the gospel with the Jewish audience.
• The practice of reading from the Law and the Prophets is an established part of Jewish worship and the teaching that followed shaped the understanding of the community.

Commentators often note that this verse indicates the openness of the first-century Jewish community to hearing from a range of voices within the synagogue setting, and show how Paul and his companions took advantage of these opportunities to share their message about Jesus Christ.