Acts 18:4
And he reasoned in the synagogue every sabbath, and persuaded the Jews and the Greeks.
Original Language Analysis
διελέγετο
he reasoned
G1256
διελέγετο
he reasoned
Strong's:
G1256
Word #:
1 of 13
to say thoroughly, i.e., discuss (in argument or exhortation)
τῇ
G3588
τῇ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
συναγωγῇ
the synagogue
G4864
συναγωγῇ
the synagogue
Strong's:
G4864
Word #:
5 of 13
an assemblage of persons; specially, a jewish "synagogue" (the meeting or the place); by analogy, a christian church
κατὰ
G2596
κατὰ
Strong's:
G2596
Word #:
6 of 13
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
σάββατον
sabbath
G4521
σάββατον
sabbath
Strong's:
G4521
Word #:
8 of 13
the sabbath (i.e., shabbath), or day of weekly repose from secular avocations (also the observance or institution itself); by extension, a se'nnight,
ἔπειθέν
persuaded
G3982
ἔπειθέν
persuaded
Strong's:
G3982
Word #:
9 of 13
to convince (by argument, true or false); by analogy, to pacify or conciliate (by other fair means); reflexively or passively, to assent (to evidence
Cross References
2 Corinthians 5:11Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest unto God; and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences.Acts 28:23And when they had appointed him a day, there came many to him into his lodging; to whom he expounded and testified the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses, and out of the prophets, from morning till evening.Acts 17:17Therefore disputed he in the synagogue with the Jews, and with the devout persons, and in the market daily with them that met with him.
Historical Context
Corinthian synagogue remains have been found archaeologically. Paul's sabbath ministry reached both Jews and God-fearing Greeks who attended synagogue worship.
Questions for Reflection
- What does 'reasoning' and 'persuading' teach about evangelistic methodology?
- How should believers engage minds as well as hearts in gospel presentation?
Analysis & Commentary
'He reasoned in the synagogue every sabbath' - systematic Scripture exposition for both Jews and Greeks. The Greek dialegomai indicates dialogue and persuasion, not merely proclamation. Paul engaged minds with gospel truth.