Acts 2:13
Others mocking said, These men are full of new wine.
Original Language Analysis
ἔλεγον
said
G3004
ἔλεγον
said
Strong's:
G3004
Word #:
4 of 8
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
ὅτι
G3754
Γλεύκους
of new wine
G1098
Γλεύκους
of new wine
Strong's:
G1098
Word #:
6 of 8
sweet wine, i.e., (properly) must (fresh juice), but used of the more saccharine (and therefore highly inebriating) fermented wine
Historical Context
'New wine' (Greek 'gleukos') referred to sweet, partially fermented wine still fermenting - hence more intoxicating. The charge was both insulting and absurd, as verse 15 notes it was only 9 AM ('the third hour'). This mockery paralleled accusations against Jesus of being a 'winebibber' (Matthew 11:19).
Questions for Reflection
- How do you guard against dismissing genuine spiritual phenomena with naturalistic explanations?
- When has religious enthusiasm been mistaken for spiritual power in your experience?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The mockers' accusation of drunkenness ('full of new wine') reveals the natural mind's inability to comprehend spiritual realities (1 Corinthians 2:14). Their explanation reduced supernatural phenomena to carnal causes, a pattern repeated throughout church history when unregenerate reason confronts divine intervention. Paul would later connect being 'filled with the Spirit' versus 'drunk with wine' (Ephesians 5:18), showing these represent opposing kingdoms.