Acts 17:18

Spanish Version Is Called = Free Bible Version or (Versión Biblia Libre = VBL) - Public Domain - http://www.freebibleversion.org/ - Copyright © 2018 Jonathan Gallagher y Shelly Barrios de Avila

Algunos filósofos epicúreos y estoicos también discutían con él. “¿De qué habla este hombre?” Se preguntaban. Y otros concluían: “Parece que enseña sobre dioses extranjeros,” porque hablaba sobre Jesús y la resurrección.

¿Qué significa esto?

In this verse from Acts, some philosophers in Athens—Epicureans and Stoics—reacted to Paul's teachings about Jesus and the resurrection. Some mocked him as a babbler, while others thought he was introducing new gods.

Explicado para niños

Imagine if you went into a classroom and started talking about something really different from what everyone else knew. Some kids might think you're just making up silly stories, but others might wonder if you're teaching them about new things they've never heard of before. That's kind of like what happened with Paul in this story.

Contexto histórico

The book of Acts was written by Luke, a companion of the apostle Paul, around 60-80 AD. It details Paul’s missionary journey to Athens where he encountered Greek philosophers who were curious but also skeptical about his teachings on Jesus and resurrection.

Aplicación para hoy

In today's context, this verse can remind us that when we talk about our beliefs with others, especially in a diverse environment like college campuses or the workplace, some people might not understand right away. We should be prepared to explain gently and with patience.

Temas

• faith
• apologetics
• resurrection
• missionary work
• dialogue
• philosophy

Versículos relacionados

• Genesis 12:1-3
• Romans 10:9-15
• Acts 4:8-12
• John 6:68-69
• 1 Corinthians 15:12-20

Lecturas recomendadas

Comentario Comentarios de Acts → Consigue esta Biblia Biblia de estudio Version Is Called = Free Bible Version or (Versión Biblia Libre = VBL) - Public Domain - http://www.freebibleversion.org/ - Copyright © Jonathan Gallagher y Shelly Barrios de Avila →

Preguntas frecuentes

Why were the Epicureans and Stoics so skeptical about Paul’s teachings?

They were skeptical because their philosophical views did not include concepts like resurrection or a single, all-powerful God. Their reactions reflect how new ideas can be met with resistance.

What does 'strange gods' mean in this context?

'Strange gods' refers to the unfamiliar concept of Jesus and the idea of resurrection which were alien to the Epicureans and Stoics, thus they perceived Paul's teachings as introducing new deities.

How can we apply this verse to our conversations about faith today?

We can use it as a reminder to approach discussions with respect and clarity. Just like Paul, we should be prepared to explain our beliefs in ways that are meaningful to those who may not share the same background.

What was Luke's purpose in including this encounter between Paul and philosophers?

Luke likely included it to highlight how early Christian teachings stood out against prevailing philosophies of the time, demonstrating the unique message of Christianity even among educated skeptics.