Acts 13:16

KJV

Then Paul stood up, and beckoning with [his] hand said, Men of Israel, and ye that fear God, give audience.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then {G1161} Paul {G3972} stood up {G450}, and {G2532} beckoning {G2678} with his hand {G5495} said {G2036}, Men {G435} of Israel {G2475}, and {G2532} ye that fear {G5399} God {G2316}, give audience {G191}.

Complete Jewish Bible

So Sha’ul stood, motioned with his hand, and said:

“Men of Isra’el and God-fearers, listen!

Berean Standard Bible

Paul stood up, motioned with his hand, and began to speak: “Men of Israel and you Gentiles who fear God, listen to me!

American Standard Version

And Paul stood up, and beckoning with the hand said, Men of Israel, and ye that fear God, hearken:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 13:16 serves as the pivotal introduction to Paul's inaugural recorded sermon during his first missionary journey in the synagogue at Pisidian Antioch. It captures the apostle's commanding presence and strategic approach as he prepares to deliver a transformative message to a diverse audience comprising both native Jews and Gentile God-fearers, setting the stage for the expansive proclamation of the Gospel to the wider world.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the Sabbath synagogue service in Pisidian Antioch, where Paul and Barnabas, having been invited by the synagogue leaders, are given an opportunity to speak after the customary reading of the Law and the Prophets (see [Acts 13:13-15](/acts/13-13-15 "Paul and Barnabas in Pisidian Antioch")). The narrative flow highlights the divine orchestration of events, as the apostles consistently sought out Jewish synagogues as their initial points of evangelism, leveraging existing monotheistic frameworks and scriptural understanding. Paul's action of standing up and beckoning signals a formal address, indicating the profound significance of the message he is about to deliver, which will stretch from Israel's history to the redemptive work of Christ.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Pisidian Antioch was a significant Roman colony in the province of Galatia, strategically located and a hub of diverse populations. Synagogues in the Roman Empire served not only as places of worship but also as community centers where Jewish people and interested Gentiles (known as "God-fearers") gathered. It was customary for visiting rabbis or esteemed guests to be invited to deliver a word of exhortation following the scripture readings, providing Paul with a culturally accepted platform. The presence of "Men of Israel" (native Jews) and "ye that fear God" (Gentiles who adhered to Jewish monotheism and ethical standards but had not fully converted) reflects the demographic reality of many diaspora synagogues and reveals Paul's inclusive evangelistic strategy from the outset.
* **Key Themes:** Acts 13:16 introduces several crucial themes that will permeate Paul's ministry and the book of Acts. Firstly, it underscores **Paul's Strategic Evangelism**, demonstrating his consistent practice of initiating Gospel proclamation in the synagogue before turning to the Gentiles when rejected by Jewish communities, as seen later in [Acts 13:46](/acts/13-46 "Paul and Barnabas turn to the Gentiles"). Secondly, the address to "Men of Israel, and ye that fear God" highlights the **Universal Scope of the Gospel**, emphasizing that God's salvation is for both Jew and Gentile, a truth Peter had previously grasped in [Acts 10:34-35](/acts/10-34-35 "Peter's Realization of God's Impartiality"). Thirdly, Paul's gesture of "beckoning with his hand" and the call to "give audience" signify the **Divine Authority and Urgency of the Message**, reflecting the apostolic conviction that they were delivering God's very words, demanding attentive reception.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **stood up (Greek, _anístēmi'_):** From G450, meaning "to stand up (literal or figurative, transitive or intransitive)." In this context, it signifies a physical action of rising to assume a position of authority or readiness to speak. It denotes a deliberate and formal posture, signaling an important public address, much like a speaker taking the podium.
* **beckoning (Greek, _kataseíō'_):** From G2678, meaning "to sway downward, i.e. make a signal." This verb describes a specific hand gesture, often used in ancient oratory to quiet a crowd or to command attention. It's a non-verbal cue that complements Paul's verbal call for audience, indicating his desire for silence and focused listening from the assembly.
* **give audience (Greek, _akoúō'_):** From G191, a primary verb meaning "to hear (in various senses)." While it can mean simply to perceive sound, in this imperative form ("give audience"), it carries the stronger sense of listening attentively, understanding, and even heeding the message. Paul is not merely asking them to hear his voice, but to truly comprehend and respond to the truth he is about to declare.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then Paul stood up":** This clause marks a decisive moment. "Then" (G1161, _dé_) indicates a transition, following the invitation from the synagogue rulers. Paul's act of standing (G450, _anístēmi_) is a deliberate and formal action, signaling his readiness to address the congregation and assume the role of a speaker. It conveys a sense of authority and purpose, preparing the audience for a significant discourse.
* **"and beckoning with [his] hand said":** The conjunction "and" (G2532, _kaí_) connects Paul's physical gesture with his subsequent verbal address. The action of "beckoning with his hand" (G2678, _kataseíō_, with G5495, _cheír_) is a common ancient rhetorical device used to quiet a crowd and command their attention. It demonstrates Paul's skill as a communicator, ensuring that he had the full focus of his listeners before he began to speak. The verb "said" (G2036, _épō_) introduces his direct address.
* **"Men of Israel, and ye that fear God":** This is Paul's inclusive salutation, carefully crafted to address the entire synagogue assembly. "Men of Israel" (G435, _anḗr_, and G2475, _Israēlítēs_) refers to the native-born Jews and proselytes. "And ye that fear God" (G2532, _kaí_, G5399, _phobéō_, G2316, _theós_) specifically targets the Gentiles who, though not full converts to Judaism, worshipped the God of Israel and adhered to certain Jewish practices. This dual address immediately establishes the universal scope of the message Paul is about to deliver.
* **"give audience":** This is Paul's direct imperative (G191, _akoúō_). It is not merely an invitation to hear sounds, but a command to listen attentively, to pay heed, and to receive the message with understanding. It underscores the gravity and importance of the words that are about to follow, emphasizing the need for the audience to open their minds and hearts to the truth.

#### Literary Devices
Acts 13:16 powerfully employs several literary devices to set the scene for Paul's sermon. **Gesture** is prominently featured through Paul's act of "beckoning with his hand," a visual cue that immediately conveys his intent to speak and commands the audience's attention. This physical action serves as a non-verbal introduction, preparing the listeners for the verbal message. The verse also uses **Direct Address** with Paul's opening salutation, "Men of Israel, and ye that fear God." This inclusive address is a strategic rhetorical choice, acknowledging the diverse composition of his audience and establishing a connection with both Jewish and Gentile listeners. Furthermore, the entire verse functions as a **Rhetorical Setup**, building anticipation for Paul's sermon. The combination of Paul's authoritative posture, his attention-grabbing gesture, and his direct command to "give audience" creates a dramatic opening that highlights the significance of the forthcoming proclamation of the Gospel.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 13:16 serves as a foundational verse for understanding the early Christian mission's methodology and theological underpinnings. Paul's deliberate actions and inclusive address reflect a deep theological conviction concerning the universal reach of God's salvation. By addressing both "Men of Israel" and "ye that fear God," Paul demonstrates the Gospel's inherent impartiality and its call to all humanity, regardless of ethnic or religious background. This approach foreshadows the broader Gentile mission and the breaking down of barriers between Jew and Gentile through Christ, a central theme in Paul's later epistles. It underscores the truth that God is seeking worshippers from every nation and that the message of redemption is not exclusive to one people group but is offered freely to all who will listen and believe.

* [Acts 17:22](/acts/17-22 "Paul's Sermon on Mars Hill") - Paul addresses a diverse Athenian audience, adapting his approach to their context.
* [Romans 1:16](/romans/1-16 "The Power of the Gospel") - Paul declares the Gospel is "the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek."
* [Ephesians 2:14-18](/ephesians/2-14-18 "Christ Our Peace") - Paul explains how Christ has broken down the dividing wall between Jew and Gentile, creating one new humanity.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 13:16 offers profound insights for believers today, particularly regarding evangelism and communication. Paul's readiness to seize the opportunity to speak, his intentional posture, and his respectful, inclusive address model a powerful approach to sharing the Gospel. We are called to be prepared, like Paul, to articulate our faith when doors open, whether formally or informally. This verse reminds us that effective communication involves not just speaking, but also thoughtfully engaging our audience, understanding their context, and commanding their attention with grace and clarity. Furthermore, Paul's embrace of both Jews and God-fearers challenges us to consider the breadth of our own evangelistic efforts, ensuring that our message of salvation is truly inclusive and accessible to people from all walks of life, recognizing that God desires all to come to repentance and knowledge of the truth. Our mission, like Paul's, is to invite all to "give audience" to the life-changing message of Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How prepared am I to share my faith when an unexpected opportunity arises?**
* **In what ways can I more thoughtfully and respectfully engage with people from different backgrounds when discussing spiritual matters?**
* **Am I truly embracing the universal call of the Gospel, or do I unconsciously limit its reach to certain groups or individuals?**
* **What "gestures" or actions can I take to ensure my message is heard and received attentively in my context?**

### FAQ
**Who were the "Men of Israel" and "ye that fear God" that Paul addressed?**
Answer: "Men of Israel" refers to the native Jewish people present in the synagogue, including those who were born Jewish and those who had fully converted to Judaism (proselytes). "Ye that fear God" (Greek: _phoboumenoi ton Theon_) refers to Gentiles who had adopted certain Jewish beliefs and practices, such as monotheism and ethical standards, and worshipped the God of Israel, but had not undergone full conversion (which would include circumcision for men and adherence to the Mosaic Law). These God-fearers were often attracted to the ethical monotheism of Judaism but found the full requirements of the Law daunting. Paul's address to both groups highlights the diverse composition of diaspora synagogues and his intention to present the Gospel to both Jewish and Gentile audiences, foreshadowing the universal nature of the Christian message. This inclusive approach is consistent with the early church's understanding that the Gospel was for all, as seen in [Acts 10](/acts/10 "Peter and Cornelius").

**Why was Paul's act of "standing up, and beckoning with his hand" significant?**
Answer: In ancient rhetorical contexts, these actions were highly significant. "Standing up" (G450, _anístēmi_) was a customary gesture for a speaker preparing to deliver a formal address, indicating readiness and authority. It signaled that the speaker was about to present something important. "Beckoning with his hand" (G2678, _kataseíō_, with G5495, _cheír_) was a common non-verbal signal used to quiet a crowd and command their attention, similar to a modern speaker raising a hand for silence. Together, these actions demonstrate Paul's intentionality and his skill as a communicator, ensuring that he had the full, undivided attention of the assembly before he launched into his pivotal sermon. It underscores the gravity of the message he was about to proclaim, emphasizing that it was worthy of careful listening and consideration.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 13:16, though seemingly a simple introductory verse, profoundly points to Christ's universal redemptive work. Paul's readiness to speak and his inclusive address to "Men of Israel, and ye that fear God" directly reflects the mission given by Christ Himself. The very act of Paul standing up to proclaim the good news is an echo of Christ's own ministry, where He stood in the synagogue and declared the fulfillment of prophecy in Himself (see [Luke 4:16-21](/luke/4-16-21 "Jesus in the Synagogue at Nazareth")). The "audience" Paul seeks is ultimately an audience for the message of Christ, the One who came not only for the lost sheep of Israel but also to gather "other sheep that are not of this fold" (see [John 10:16](/john/10-16 "Jesus, the Good Shepherd")). Paul's sermon, which immediately follows this introduction, will detail how God's covenant promises to Israel find their ultimate fulfillment in Jesus, the promised Messiah and Savior of all humanity. Thus, this verse sets the stage for the proclamation of the One in whom all the hopes of Israel and all the longing of the Gentiles for a true God are perfectly met, demonstrating that in Christ, there is neither Jew nor Gentile, but a new humanity reconciled to God (see [Galatians 3:28](/galatians/3-28 "No Jew or Gentile in Christ") and [Ephesians 2:11-22](/ephesians/2-11-22 "One New Humanity in Christ")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Acts 12:17

But he, beckoning unto them with the hand to hold their peace, declared unto them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, Go shew these things unto James, and to the brethren. And he departed, and went into another place.

Acts 10:2

[A] devout [man], and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God alway.

Acts 13:26

Men [and] brethren, children of the stock of Abraham, and whosoever among you feareth God, to you is the word of this salvation sent.

Acts 13:46

Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, and said, It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you: but seeing ye put it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles.

Matthew 11:15

He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.

Revelation 2:17

He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth [it].

Micah 3:8

¶ But truly I am full of power by the spirit of the LORD, and of judgment, and of might, to declare unto Jacob his transgression, and to Israel his sin.