Acts 14:15
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Acts 14:15
15 And saying, Sirs, why do ye these things? We also are men of like passions with you, and preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God, which made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein:
Chapter Context
Acts 14 is a historical narrative chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of love, fellowship, prayer. 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 21-28: 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 14:15
15 And saying, Sirs, why do ye these things? We also are men of like passions with you, and preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God, which made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein:
Analysis
Paul's emphatic rejection of worship ('We also are men of like passions with you') establishes the unbridgeable distinction between human servants and divine Lord. The call to 'turn from these vanities unto the living God' presents the gospel as radical monotheism. The creational theology ('which made heaven, and earth, and the sea') provides natural revelation foundation for evangelism.
Historical Context
At Lystra (AD 49), locals identified Paul and Barnabas as Zeus and Hermes after healing the lame man. The missionaries' torn clothes and urgent protest prevented idolatrous sacrifice, though barely (Acts 14:18). This incident highlights the challenge of contextualizing the gospel in pagan polytheistic cultures.
Reflection
- How should Christian leaders handle misplaced honor or celebrity status today?
- What role does creation theology play in evangelizing those without biblical background?
Word Studies
- God: Θεός (Theos) G2316 - God
Cross-References
- References God: Deuteronomy 32:21, 1 Corinthians 8:4
- Creation: Acts 4:24, Genesis 1:1, Jeremiah 14:22, Revelation 14:7
- Parallel theme: Acts 10:26, 1 Samuel 12:21, Jonah 2:8, James 5:17