Acts 14:5
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Acts 14:5
5 And when there was an assault made both of the Gentiles, and also of the Jews with their rulers, to use them despitefully, and to stone them,
Chapter Context
Acts 14 is a historical narrative chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of truth, discipleship, wisdom. 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 illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. 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 14:5
5 And when there was an assault made both of the Gentiles, and also of the Jews with their rulers, to use them despitefully, and to stone them,
Analysis
An assault made... to use them despitefully, and to stone them—The Greek hormē (assault) suggests violent rushing or hostile momentum, not merely verbal threats. Use them despitefully translates hybrisai (to outrage, insult violently), denoting shameful treatment and physical abuse. Stone them reveals the Jewish faction's influence, since stoning was Mosaic punishment for blasphemy. This joint attack—both of the Gentiles, and also of the Jews with their rulers—shows unprecedented coalition against the apostles. The inclusion of 'rulers' indicates official sanction was sought, making this attempted lynching semi-legal.
Historical Context
Stoning required community participation, not individual violence. By AD 47-48, Jews lacked capital punishment authority under Rome, but mob stoning occasionally occurred (as with Stephen). The alliance between Jews and Gentiles here was unusual, showing how powerfully the gospel disrupted normal social alignments.
Reflection
- How do you respond when opposition becomes physically dangerous rather than merely ideological?
- What does the coalition of diverse enemies teach about the supernatural nature of gospel opposition?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Acts 14:19, 2 Timothy 3:11