What does Acts 17:20 mean?

Explanation

Acts 17:20 presents a response from the Athenians regarding the preaching of the Apostle Paul. The Athenians were known for their love of philosophy and new ideas, and they often gathered at the Areopagus to discuss various philosophies and spiritual perspectives.

In this verse, they are expressing an interest in, but also a certain skepticism towards, the teachings Paul is presenting to them, because these teachings were unfamiliar to them.

Paul was preaching about Jesus Christ and the resurrection, concepts which were foreign to the Greek understanding of gods and the afterlife.

Thus, the Athenians were curious to understand the content and implications of Paul's message more fully.

Historical Context

When Acts 17:20 was written, the Apostle Paul had traveled to Athens, a city noted for its rich intellectual and philosophical traditions.

It was during the first century, a period in which the Greco-Roman world was characterized by a wide array of religious beliefs and philosophical teachings. Athens was a place where ideas could be freely shared and debated in public forums such as the Areopagus, also known as Mars Hill.

Theological Insights

From a Christian theological perspective, Acts 17:20 underscores the novelty of Christian doctrine in a pluralistic society.

It speaks to the early Christian mission to evangelize and communicate the Gospel in various cultural and intellectual contexts.

The Athenian reaction also points to the importance of clarity and cultural sensitivity in the dissemination of religious teachings.

The verse might be seen differently in other theological traditions, raising questions about how revelation is perceived and how new religious movements are treated.

Practical Applications

This verse highlights the value of open-mindedness and willingness to learn about new ideas or beliefs.

In a contemporary setting, it could encourage individuals to explore and understand beliefs that differ from their own. It also suggests that when presenting new ideas, one should be clear and ready to explain them thoughtfully, respecting the audience's unfamiliarity with the subject.

Cross-References

• Acts 17:16-34: This broader passage provides context for Paul's interaction with the Athenians, including his speech at the Areopagus.
• 1 Corinthians 1:22-23: Paul's recognition of the Greeks seeking after wisdom, contrasting with the preaching of Christ crucified.
• Acts 17:11: Describes the Bereans who were more open-minded and searched the Scriptures daily to verify Paul's teachings.

Language Study

The key term in Acts 17:20 in the original Greek is "xenizonta" (ξενίζοντα), which is translated as "bringest strange things" in the KJV and refers to the idea of presenting something foreign or novel.

The word plays a crucial role in conveying the Athenians' perception of Paul's message as something unusual or even alien to their customary beliefs.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The Athenians' reaction in Acts 17:20 can be compared with other ancient reactions to new religious teachings.

In the Greco-Roman world, the introduction of new deities or cults was not uncommon, but acceptance varied depending on how they aligned with existing beliefs and practices.

Still, the conversion to a new religion, such as the worship of the Judeo-Christian God, would have represented a significant ideological shift for a Greek philosopher.

Scientific Perspectives

There is no direct scientific content in Acts 17:20, but the verses surrounding this verse do provide insight into ancient Greek cosmology and religious practices that might be of interest to historians of science.

The discourse between Paul and the Athenians illustrates the intersection of religion with early scientific ideas, where gods and natural phenomena were often intertwined.

Commentaries

Various biblical commentators note that Acts 17:20 shows the curiosity and intellectual engagement of the Athenians, though with an undercurrent of skepticism.

John Calvin comments on their reaction as both a dismissal and a genuine desire to understand.

Matthew Henry views their statement as an invitation for Paul to explain his teachings more fully, potentially setting the stage for conversion, but also as a warning against introducing foreign superstitions.

Contemporary commentators often focus on the manner of Paul's evangelism, using the Athenians' cultural context to communicate the Gospel effectively.