Acts 13:15
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Acts 13:15
15 And after the reading of the law and the prophets the rulers of the synagogue sent unto them, saying, Ye men and brethren, if ye have any word of exhortation for the people, say on.
Chapter Context
Acts 13 is a historical narrative chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of fellowship, righteousness, redemption. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Chronicles Christianity's spread across the Roman Empire despite official and unofficial opposition.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-52: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Acts and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Acts 13:15
15 And after the reading of the law and the prophets the rulers of the synagogue sent unto them, saying, Ye men and brethren, if ye have any word of exhortation for the people, say on.
Analysis
After the reading of the law and the prophets (μετὰ δὲ τὴν ἀνάγνωσιν τοῦ νόμου καὶ τῶν προφητῶν, meta de tēn anagnōsin tou nomou kai tōn prophētōn)—synagogue worship followed prescribed liturgy: the Shema (Deuteronomy 6:4-9), prayers, Torah reading (continuous lectionary), prophetic reading (haftarah), and exposition. Paul's opportunity came during the exposition portion, after Scripture had been publicly read. The law and prophets encompassed Israel's entire canonical Scripture, providing Paul's textual foundation for preaching Christ.
Word of exhortation (λόγος παρακλήσεως, logos paraklēseōs)—the technical term for synagogue exposition/homily. The noun παρακλήσεως (paraklēseōs, from παρακαλέω, 'to come alongside, encourage, exhort') indicates more than information-transfer: authoritative application calling for response. Paul's sermon (vv. 16-41) demonstrates apostolic παρακλήσεως—rehearsing salvation history, declaring Christ's fulfillment, calling for faith-response.
Historical Context
First-century synagogue worship maintained continuity with Second Temple Judaism while adapting to diaspora contexts. The invitation to visiting teachers reflected Judaism's high regard for Torah exposition and expectation that learned visitors would contribute insight. Synagogue rulers (ἀρχισυνάγωγοι, archisynagōgoi) managed worship order and extended speaking invitations.
Reflection
- How does the structured progression from Scripture reading to exposition model sound preaching methodology today?
- What does the phrase 'word of exhortation' teach about preaching's purpose—not merely informing but calling people to respond?
Word Studies
- Word: λόγος (Logos) G3056 - Word, reason, message
Cross-References
- Prophecy: Acts 13:27
- Word: Hebrews 13:22
- Parallel theme: Acts 15:21, 18:17, 22:1, Mark 5:22, Romans 12:8