What does Acts 14:25 mean?

And when they had preached the word in Perga, they went down into Attalia: Acts 14:25

Explanation

Acts 14:25 describes a moment in the first missionary journey of Paul and Barnabas, two early Christian missionaries. After having proclaimed the Christian message in the city of Perga in Pamphylia (in modern-day Turkey), they travelled to the port city of Attalia (now Antalya, Turkey). This verse underscores the mobility and dedication of the early Christian missionaries in spreading their religious beliefs, indicating the end of their mission in one city and the continuation to another.

Historical Context

The Book of Acts, traditionally attributed to Luke, the companion of Paul, provides an accounting of the early Christian Church’s expansion after the death, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus Christ. This verse is situated towards the end of Paul’s first missionary journey, which took place roughly between AD 46 and AD 48. Perga was an important city in Pamphylia and would have been a strategic location for the spread of Christianity. Attalia, being a coastal city, served as a launching point for travel by sea.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse continues to show the fulfillment of the Great Commission that Jesus gave to His disciples in Matthew 28:19-20, to go and make disciples of all nations. Paul and Barnabas’s travels to Perga and Attalia illustrate their obedience to this command. This narrative also serves to demonstrate God’s sovereignty in opening doors for the Gospel to be preached in various cities, regardless of cultural or geographic barriers.

Practical Applications

Acts 14:25 exemplifies the principles of dedication to one’s mission, perseverance, and adapting to new environments. In practical terms, this verse serves as an encouragement to individuals to carry on with their endeavors, particularly those related to spreading their beliefs and values, despite challenges or changes in circumstances. It also advocates for the importance of completing tasks before moving to new opportunities.

Cross-References

• Acts 13:4 (KJV): “So they, being sent forth by the Holy Ghost, departed unto Seleucia; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus.”
• Acts 14:21 (KJV): “And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch,”
• Matthew 28:19-20 (KJV): “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.”

Language Study

In this verse, there are a couple of key terms in the original Greek:

• “preached” (εὐαγγελίζομενοι euangelizomenoi): Originally meaning bringing good news; here it implies the proclamation of the Gospel.
• “word” (λόγον logon): This term not only refers to a simple spoken word but also encapsulates the idea of the message or teachings of Jesus Christ.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

During this period, the Roman Empire and Hellenistic culture had a considerable influence on religion and mythology. Paul and Barnabas were engaging with a diverse cultural milieu, where polytheistic traditions and the Imperial cult prevailed. However, the method of spreading one’s religious views through traveling and teaching in Acts 14:25 mirrors methods found in other religious traditions, such as the itinerant preachers of Buddhism.

Scientific Perspectives

The verse does not directly relate to science; however, by mentioning specific places, it invites considerations of geography and anthropology that can be analyzed through scientific methods. The missionary journeys also highlight the human capacity for adaptation and the spread of ideas, themes that intersect with social sciences.

Commentaries

Commentaries from various experts on Acts 14:25 commonly emphasize the theme of the spread of Christian teachings in the face of adversity. They often highlight the strategic movement from interior regions to port cities, which suggests an intentional strategy to maximize the reach of the Gospel. Some commentaries also discuss the perseverance and courage of Paul and Barnabas as exemplary for Christian mission. The interplay of divine guidance and human agency in missions is a frequent point of discussion.