The Second Missionary Journey of Paul Thessalonica, Berea, Athens Acts 17:1-34

In chapter 17, we continue the thrilling Second Missionary Journey of Apostle Paul.  Having traveled to Philippi in chapter 16, Paul goes to Thessalonica and Berea.  Using the synagogue as a springboard to get into a city or community, Paul arrives in Thessalonica, preaching the gospel (vv. 1-3).  Paul was only in Thessalonica for three sabbaths, however, a local church was organized, and Paul taught them.  Notice that Paul presented the resurrection of Jesus Christ, a message prominently preached by Peter and Paul.  The resurrection of Christ is the basis of New Testament preaching.

In verses 4-9, Paul’s preaching resulted in some believing, and some not believing, and his preaching will bring about an uproar.  Paul had to leave Thessalonica, and he and Silas journeys to Berea by night (v. 10).  In verse 11, the Berean church is described as a church that searched the scriptures.  This church had a genuine appetite for the word, eager to hear and heed the word (v. 12).  Having ministered in Berea, and leaving there because of conflict, Paul goes to Athens, a city “given to idolatry” (vv. 15-16).  Athens was the cultural center of the world, but it was filled with idolatry, and Paul made his presentation in the synagogue and marketplace (v. 17).  In Athens, Paul comes into contact with some philosophical groups call the Epicureans and Stoics, and these philosophers called Paul a babbler (v. 18).

From verses 19-21, the Greek philosopher wanted to gain more knowledge about the doctrine that Paul was preaching.  Then, Paul began to preach his famous message on Mars’ Hill, observing the Athenians’ idols all around.  Paul began to talk to the Athenians about this “unknown God”.   Paul went on to tell them about the God whom they didn’t know (vv. 22-31).  Paul revealed God in the past as Creator (v. 24), in the present, God is revealed as the Redeemer (v. 30), and in the future, God is revealed as Judge (v. 31).

After listening to Paul’s message, the Athenians were filled with mockery because of their denial of the resurrection (v. 32).  However, as Paul departed from the Athenian philosophers, there were some converts in the city of Athens that believed (vv. 33-34).

May God Bless!