ACTS 17

PAUL AND SILAS VISIT THESSALONICA + ATHENS ON THEIR MISSION

Paul and Silas travel to Thessalonica, where they speak in synagogues sharing the news of Jesus. Using the Scriptures, Paul attempts to explain the gospel and reason with the Jewish people. Some of them, both men and women, respond well to Paul’s message and believe, while others find Paul’s message offensive. The people create an uproar and attack the home of a man named Jason.

Hearing talk of a new king named Jesus, the people under the Roman empire see the followers of Jesus as a threat to Caesar. Taking money as bail from Jason and the disciples, the leaders of Thessalonica let them go while they investigate the charges.

Once Paul and Silas are freed, they leave Thessalonica in the middle of the night. When they arrive in Berea, Paul and Silas take refuge in a Jewish synagogue. The people of Berea are far more welcoming and receive the teachings of Paul and Silas with eagerness. Many of them believe, including a group of influential Greek women.

When the people of Thessalonica hear that Paul is preaching in Berea, they are angry and cause a stir among the people. Silas and Timothy remain in Berea, but Paul leaves to prevent further violence. Later, Paul writes two letters (1 and 2 Thessalonians) to the church in Thessalonica encouraging them to remain steadfast in their faith despite persecution.

When Paul arrives in Athens, he calls for Timothy and Silas to join him as soon as possible. Paul realizes that the people of Athens worship a great variety of idols, but are still interested in what Paul is teaching. Paul notices an inscription on one of the altars dedicated to an unknown god. Paul enlightens the people of Athens, telling them of the God who created them. Paul calls them to repent and place their faith in the resurrection of Jesus. Upon hearing Paul’s teaching, some of the people mock the idea of the resurrection, but others believe.