Acts 17:33
So Paul departed from among them.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
So
G2532
καὶ
So
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 8
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
οὕτως
G3779
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 8
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Παῦλος
Paul
G3972
Παῦλος
Paul
Strong's:
G3972
Word #:
4 of 8
(little; but remotely from a derivative of g3973, meaning the same); paulus, the name of a roman and of an apostle
ἐκ
from
G1537
ἐκ
from
Strong's:
G1537
Word #:
6 of 8
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
Historical Context
Athens in AD 51 was past its political prime but remained the intellectual capital of the Roman world. The Areopagus (Mars Hill) was both a location and a council that heard new philosophies. Paul's speech masterfully engaged Stoic and Epicurean thought while pointing to the true God, yet Acts records only a handful of converts. The city's devotion to philosophy and hundreds of idols (Paul noted an altar 'TO THE UNKNOWN GOD') created a culture simultaneously curious and resistant.
Questions for Reflection
- How should we balance intellectual apologetics with the 'foolishness of preaching' that relies on the Spirit's power?
- What can we learn from Paul's willingness to leave a prestigious city like Athens after limited response, rather than measuring success by cultural influence?
- In what ways might philosophical sophistication actually hinder genuine gospel receptivity in your context?
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Analysis & Commentary
So Paul departed from among them—After his Mars Hill address to the Areopagus, Paul left Athens (ἐξῆλθεν, exēlthen, 'went out') apparently without establishing a church or staying longer. The abrupt departure (ἐκ μέσου αὐτῶν, ek mesou autōn, 'from the midst of them') contrasts with his typical pattern of extended ministry. Some scholars see this as discouragement; others note that Athens' philosophical pride and religious syncretism made it resistant to the gospel.
The phrase from among them emphasizes physical separation from the Areopagus council and the gathered philosophers. Unlike other cities where Paul's preaching sparked either revival or riot, Athens produced a muted response—polite dismissal rather than passionate opposition or acceptance. This may explain why Paul later told the Corinthians he determined to know nothing but 'Jesus Christ, and him crucified' (1 Corinthians 2:2)—perhaps learning that philosophical argumentation, while not wrong, was insufficient without the Spirit's convicting power.