Acts 14:13

Dutch 1939 (De Heilige Schrift, Petrus Canisiusvertaling, 1939)

Maar toen de apostelen Bárnabas en Paulus dit hoorden, scheurden ze hun kleren, wierpen zich onder de menigte,

Wat betekent dit?

In this verse from Acts, a priest of Jupiter brings oxen and garlands to the city gates with an intention to sacrifice them along with the people there. It shows how some people in that time believed in different gods and were ready to perform religious rituals for strangers they thought were divine.

Uitgelegd voor kinderen

Imagine you see someone very special, like a superhero, and you want to show your respect by giving them gifts and having a big party. That's kind of what the priest did here, but he made a mistake because Paul and Barnabas weren't gods!

Historische achtergrond

The book of Acts was written by Luke around 60-80 AD. It documents the early Christian church's spread. This particular scene takes place in Lystra, where locals mistakenly believe that Paul and Barnabas are gods.

Toepassing voor vandaag

This verse reminds us to be mindful of our actions when we meet people who may not share our beliefs. Just like the priest made a mistake by assuming Paul and Barnabas were divine, it's important today to listen and understand before making assumptions about others' identities or roles.

Onderwerpen

• worship
• idolatry
• misunderstanding
• faith
• missionary work
• false gods

Gerelateerde verzen

• Exodus 20:3-6
• Deuteronomy 13:1-5
• Acts 8:9-24
• Romans 1:21-25
• 1 Thessalonians 1:9

Aanbevolen literatuur

Commentaar Commentaren op Acts → Deze Bijbel Studiebijbel (De Heilige Schrift, Petrus Canisiusvertaling, ) →

Veelgestelde vragen

Why did the priest of Jupiter bring oxen and garlands?

He believed that Paul and Barnabas were gods, so he intended to honor them with sacrifices, which was a common practice in ancient times for showing reverence to deities.

What does this scene tell us about the beliefs of people in Lystra?

It shows that the people of Lystra were polytheistic and ready to worship new gods they perceived as powerful, highlighting their openness but also their misunderstanding of Paul and Barnabas's true identities.

How does this event affect Paul and Barnabas’s mission?

While it shows a momentary success in attracting attention, it also highlights the need for clear communication about their message that they are not gods but servants of God.

What lesson can we draw from the priest's actions?

The story teaches us to be cautious and informed before making assumptions or attributing divine qualities to others, emphasizing the importance of understanding and respect in our interactions with different beliefs.