Acts 17:27
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Acts 17:27
27 That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us:
Chapter Context
Acts 17 is a historical narrative chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of faith, covenant, 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 21-34: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. 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 17:27
27 That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us:
Analysis
That they should seek the Lord (ζητέω τὸν κύριον, zeteo ton kyrion)—God's purpose in providentially ordering nations and their boundaries (v. 26) is soteriological: that humanity might seek Him. The verb implies earnest, diligent searching, not casual curiosity.
If haply they might feel after him (εἰ ἄρα γε ψηλαφήσειαν αὐτόν, ei ara ge pselaphaseian auton)—The rare verb pselaphao means to grope or feel about like one in darkness (cf. Job 12:25), capturing fallen humanity's spiritual blindness apart from revelation. Paul's conditional "if haply" (implying uncertainty) reflects the tentative, fumbling nature of natural theology—it can produce longing but not saving knowledge apart from special revelation.
Though he be not far from every one of us—The supreme irony: God's immanent nearness to all humanity (v. 28, "in him we live and move") makes their ignorance inexcusable (Romans 1:20). Divine transcendence does not mean distance; He sustains every breath even of idolaters who worship "unknown gods." This grounds Paul's call to repentance (v. 30).
Historical Context
Paul delivered this sermon at the Areopagus (Mars Hill) in Athens circa AD 50, addressing Epicurean and Stoic philosophers (v. 18). Athens was filled with idols—Petronius said it was easier to find a god than a man there. Paul's rhetoric adapts to his cultured pagan audience, quoting their poets (v. 28) while building toward Christ's resurrection (v. 31).
Reflection
- How does the truth that God is 'not far from every one of us' intensify human accountability for rejecting Him?
- In what ways do modern people still 'feel after' God in darkness—and why is special revelation (Scripture, Christ) necessary for true knowledge of Him?
Word Studies
- Lord: Κύριος (Kurios) G2962 - Lord, Master
Cross-References
- References Lord: Acts 15:17, Deuteronomy 4:7
- Parallel theme: Acts 14:17, Romans 1:20, 2:4