“For thou bringest certain strange things to our ears: we would know therefore what these things mean.”– Acts 17:20 (KJV)
“You are bringing some strange ideas to our ears, and we want to know what they mean.”– Acts 17:20 (NLT)
“What’s this silly story you’re telling? It doesn’t sound like anything we’ve ever heard. We’d like to know what it means.”– Acts 17:20 (MSG)
What Does Acts 17:20 Mean?
Acts 17:20 is a fragment in a larger narrative found in the Book of Acts that describes the Apostle Paul’s missionary work. In this verse, Paul encounters the people of Athens who are curious yet skeptical about the message he brings, which consists of new ideas about God and salvation. Their statement showcases an important aspect of human nature—the desire to understand the unknown. It reflects how we react whenever we hear something we do not quite understand or that seems outside of our realm of experience. It’s as if they are saying, “We hear you, but we are unsure about this.” This verse serves as a gateway to discuss how faith interacts with inquiry and curiosity.
This verse conveys the inherent need for understanding in the human experience. It demonstrates the attitudes of the Athenian philosophers, who were known for their pursuit of knowledge and truth. Their reaction suggests that they were not only interested in Paul’s ideas but also respectful enough to inquire about the meaning behind them. Their request signifies a willingness to engage in dialogue, which is crucial for exploring faith and belief.
Acts 17:20 Explanation and Commentary
In a bustling city like Athens, where philosophical debate thrived, Paul’s arrival introduced a new narrative that was unfamiliar to many. He had been speaking about Jesus and the resurrection, aligning his message with the intellectual currents of the city yet presenting the gospel in a way that challenged their existing beliefs. When the Athenians heard his teaching, they were intrigued and puzzled, prompting them to ask for clarification. There is something profound in their response: it reminds us that questions are often the seeds of understanding. Instead of dismissing Paul outright, they invited him to explain further.
This inquiry echoes through history in many forms. We, too, often find ourselves confused by new ideas or beliefs that challenge our worldview. The Athenians exemplify the importance of keeping an open mind and seeking understanding. Although they may appear superstitious or skeptical to some, their willingness to engage with different thoughts shows a curious heart. They understood that to know more about God’s message, clarification was key. As believers, we may find ourselves in similar positions. We may hear something new from scripture, from a sermon, or from engaging in conversation. The invitation to explore and ask questions can feel daunting, especially when it concerns faith.
On another note, we should not overlook the act of communication itself. Speaking about faith can often lead to many responses, some of which can be mixed or skeptical. The question from the Athenians poses a challenge to share our faith with love. We too must be patient and understanding when introducing others to ideas about God and the gospel. In doing so, we create a conducive space for dialogue—much like what the Athenian philosophers did. Learning and sharing can lead to transformative conversations.
Context of Acts 17:20
This verse is nestled within a larger section where Paul is in Athens, addressing a crowd that resonates with intellectual thought. He observes a city full of idols, which prompts him to speak about the “unknown God” referenced on an altar. The Philosophers were open to discussing new ideas. The larger narrative illustrates Paul’s journey through various cities, where he engaged with both Jews and Gentiles. It emphasizes that despite differing cultures and beliefs, there is common ground in the pursuit of understanding.
Understanding the context heightens the meaning of Acts 17:20. Paul had just delivered an inspiring and theologically rich speech, setting the stage for the listeners. However, for those who didn’t have a foundation in Jewish scriptures, this new information may have felt strange or even overwhelming. It makes sense that they would want clarification. The dynamic of the crowd here demonstrates the influence of culture and the role that conversation plays in Christianity. Paul’s ability to adapt his message to the audience is a crucial learning point for us, particularly as we share our faith in different settings.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of Acts 17:20
The phrase “strange things” is significant. It points to how new ideas about God can be perceived as foreign or unusual. Paul was teaching concepts that went against prevailing beliefs in the Greek world. The use of the words “would know therefore what these things mean” reflects a desire for divinity and truth. In essence, the Athenians acknowledge they don’t fully grasp Paul’s ideas and desire to uncover their meaning. This plea shows us that even the most curious and scholarly individuals are searching for answers. It’s essential for us to recognize this commonality when we encounter people who struggle with faith questions.
This portion of scripture teaches us the importance of explaining our beliefs clearly and gently. When we talk about faith, we should maintain a posture of grace and humility, keeping in mind that not everyone shares our background or experiences. Instead of approaching conversations defensively, curiosity should guide our discussions. Becoming more knowledgeable and aware of diverse perspectives can enable us to share our gospel message more effectively.
Lessons to Learn From Acts 17:20
One lesson we can draw from Acts 17:20 is the spirit of inquiry. It teaches us that asking questions is not only acceptable but necessary in our pursuit of a deeper faith understanding. Just like the Athenian philosophers, we should feel free to ask what things mean. God encourages our curiosity. Additionally, this chapter exemplifies the value of patience in our walks of faith. When we introduce new ideas, we should not expect immediate acceptance. Instead, we can foster a welcoming atmosphere for discussion.
We must remember that everyone is on their own journey. We often encounter people who are skeptical or uninterested in faith and who may question our beliefs. Instead of shying away, we can draw from the example set here as we share how our faith impacts our lives. It’s about being relatable and authentic while addressing individuals’ queries earnestly. Acts 17:20 reinforces that we are called to be ambassadors of grace, open to the thoughtful and even challenging questions that others might have.
Final Thoughts
Reflecting on Acts 17:20 offers insight into our roles as believers in understanding and sharing faith. It reminds us that the truth can sometimes challenge existing beliefs and that clarification and dialogue are instrumental in fostering understanding. Our ability to engage in open discussions about faith with respect and humility can lead others to deeper insights about God. So let us take this as an encouragement to create connections with others, share our experiences, and continue exploring these transformative topics. If you’re hungry for more, consider exploring this topic further through additional scripture, such as Acts 14:20 or perhaps even Joshua 10:15. Each verse holds the potential to deepen our knowledge and enrich our faith journey.