Acts 17:28
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Acts 17:28
28 For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.
Chapter Context
Acts 17 is a historical narrative chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of discipleship, judgment, 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 21-34: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. 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 17:28
28 For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.
Analysis
Paul's Mars Hill declaration - 'in him we live, and move, and have our being' - articulates God's immanent sustenance of creation. Quoting their own poet ('we are also his offspring') shows wise contextualization, using truth wherever found to point toward Christ. This speech models engaging philosophical audiences by connecting gospel truth to their cultural touchstones.
Historical Context
The Areopagus (Mars Hill) was Athens' philosophical forum. Paul's quotation from Greek poets (possibly Epimenides and Aratus) demonstrated cultural literacy while maintaining theological truth, showing how to build bridges without compromising the gospel.
Reflection
- How can you use cultural insights and common ground as bridges to gospel truth without compromising doctrine?
- What does Paul's approach teach about engaging intellectual audiences with biblical truth?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: 1 Samuel 25:29, Job 12:10, Psalms 36:9, 66:9, Luke 20:38, John 5:26