What does Acts 18:7 mean?

Explanation

Acts 18:7 describes a moment in the ministry of Paul the Apostle.

Having faced opposition in the synagogue at Corinth, Paul leaves and goes to the home of a man named Justus.

Justus is described as someone who "worshipped God," which indicates that he was a God-fearer, a Gentile who adhered to Jewish religious practices and beliefs without being a full convert to Judaism.

The text notes that Justus's house was located "joined hard to the synagogue," suggesting very close proximity.

This detail underscores the narrative that though Paul was rejected by some Jews in the synagogue, he found welcome just next door.

The verse fits within the broader theme of the Book of Acts, which shows the expansion of the Christian mission from a predominantly Jewish audience to Gentiles.

Historical Context

Acts 18:7 takes place in the city of Corinth, around 50-52 AD, during Paul's second missionary journey.

Corinth was a significant trade center in the Roman Empire and had a diverse population, including a substantial number of Jews.

Paul, a well-educated Jew and Roman citizen, was well-equipped to engage with the various cultural groups in Corinth.

Synagogues often served as places of gathering for the local Jewish population and God-fearers.

This strategic location provided Paul initial points of contact and dialogue about Jesus as the Messiah but also held the potential for conflict as the new Christian teachings diverged from traditional Jewish beliefs.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse can be seen as a reflection of the Christian belief in the fulfillment of the scriptures in Jesus Christ and the widening of God's covenant to include all peoples, not just the Jews.

It also highlights the Christian principle of continued ministry and evangelism, despite confronting obstacles.

Additionally, the reference to a God-fearer such as Justus accepts Paul indicates the early Christian view that righteousness before God is not exclusively tied to ethnic boundaries but to faith and worship of God.

Practical Applications

One applicable lesson from this verse is the importance of persistence and flexibility in the face of adversity. When encountering rejection, one can find alternative means to continue their mission, like Paul, who simply moved next door to preach.

Additionally, this verse reinforces the value of inclusivity and hospitality. Just as Justus welcomed Paul into his home, individuals are encouraged to offer support and open their spaces to those continuing positive missions, regardless of the differences that might exist.

Cross-References

• Acts 17:10-11: "And the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night unto Berea: who coming thither went into the synagogue of the Jews."
• Acts 18:4: "And he reasoned in the synagogue every sabbath, and persuaded the Jews and the Greeks."
• Romans 11:13-14: "For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office: If by any means I may provoke to emulation them which are my flesh, and might save some of them."

Language Study

The key words in the original Greek text of this passage are "prosekonēsen," which is translated as "worshipped God," indicating the reverence and piety of Justus towards the God of Israel, and "kollēmenon tē synagōgē", translated as "joined hard to the synagogue," which literally means "adjoining" or "closely situated," emphasizing the physical proximity of Justus's house to the synagogue.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the ancient world, religious communities were often defined by ethnicity, as seen with the Jews.

However, the presence of God-fearers like Justus is indicative of how Jewish religious influence extended beyond ethnic Jews. Comparatively, within Greco-Roman religion, individuals could participate in a variety of cultic practices without belonging to any one ethnic group.

Christianity, emerging out of this environment, presented a new religious identity that transcended traditional ethnic and cultural boundaries.

Scientific Perspectives

The verse itself does not directly relate to any scientific concepts.

However, archaeological findings in cities like Corinth have given context to the living conditions and the urban setting of the first-century world that Paul and his contemporaries inhabited.

These findings help us understand the practicalities of Paul's missionary work, such as traveling routes, living conditions, and the layout of ancient cities, which influences how missionary activities like those described in Acts 18:7 would have taken place.

Commentaries

Experts have discussed this Bible verse from various perspectives:

• F.F.

Bruce, in his commentary on the Book of Acts, notes the significance of Paul's transfer from the synagogue to the house of Justus as indicative of the shift in Christian evangelism towards a predominantly Gentile audience.

• John Calvin comments on the providence of God in preparing Justus to welcome Paul, thus ensuring the continuance of Paul's ministry in Corinth despite Jewish opposition.
• The New International Commentary on the New Testament points out that the author of Acts, Luke, highlights the proximity of Justus's house to the synagogue to show the continued opportunity for Jews to hear Paul's preaching, even after his departure from the synagogue.