Acts 13:45

KJV

But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy, and spake against those things which were spoken by Paul, contradicting and blaspheming.

KJV (with Strong's)

But {G1161} when the Jews {G2453} saw {G1492} the multitudes {G3793}, they were filled {G4130} with envy {G2205}, and {G2532} spake against {G483} those things which were spoken {G3004} by {G5259} Paul {G3972}, contradicting {G483} and {G2532} blaspheming {G987}.

Complete Jewish Bible

but when the Jews who had not believed saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy and spoke up against what Sha’ul was saying and insulted him.

Berean Standard Bible

But when the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy, and they blasphemously contradicted what Paul was saying.

American Standard Version

But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with jealousy, and contradicted the things which were spoken by Paul, and blasphemed.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 13:45 captures a critical turning point in Paul and Barnabas's first missionary journey, detailing the hostile reaction of certain Jewish leaders in Pisidian Antioch. After witnessing the overwhelming response of both Jews and Gentiles to Paul's gospel message, these Jewish individuals were consumed by envy, leading them to verbally oppose and slander Paul's teaching, thereby rejecting the divine truth he proclaimed. This verse underscores the immediate and intense opposition the early Christian message often faced, particularly from those who felt their religious authority or exclusive privilege was threatened.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows a triumphant moment for Paul and Barnabas in Pisidian Antioch. In [Acts 13:14-41](/acts/13-14-41 "Acts 13:14-41 - Paul's Sermon in Pisidian Antioch"), Paul delivers a powerful sermon in the synagogue, tracing God's redemptive history from Israel's past through the resurrection of Jesus, culminating in the offer of salvation and forgiveness of sins through Him. This message resonated deeply with many, leading to an invitation to speak again the following Sabbath ([Acts 13:42](/acts/13-42 "Acts 13:42 - Gentiles Request More Preaching")). The overwhelming success of this second gathering, where "almost the whole city" came to hear the word of God ([Acts 13:44](/acts/13-44 "Acts 13:44 - Almost the Whole City Gathers")), directly precipitates the envious and antagonistic reaction described in [Acts 13:45](/acts/13-45 "Acts 13:45 - Jewish Opposition in Pisidian Antioch"). The subsequent verses ([Acts 13:46-47](/acts/13-46-47 "Acts 13:46-47 - Paul and Barnabas Turn to the Gentiles")) show Paul and Barnabas's response to this opposition, pivoting their focus more explicitly to the Gentiles.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Pisidian Antioch was a significant city in the Roman province of Galatia, strategically located and home to a substantial Jewish diaspora community, as evidenced by the synagogue. The Jews of the diaspora often held a privileged status, allowed to practice their religion and maintain their customs. Within the synagogue, there were not only born Jews but also "God-fearers" (Gentiles who worshipped the God of Israel and adhered to some Jewish customs without full conversion). The early Christian message, proclaiming Jesus as the Messiah and offering salvation through faith, challenged the established religious order and the perceived exclusive covenantal relationship of the Jews with God. The idea that Gentiles could receive salvation without fully converting to Judaism (circumcision, dietary laws, etc.) was particularly contentious and often a source of deep resentment among some Jewish factions, who viewed it as undermining their heritage and unique standing.

* **Key Themes:** [Acts 13](/acts/13 "Acts 13 - Paul's First Missionary Journey Begins") introduces several recurring themes that are powerfully illustrated in this verse. One prominent theme is the **expansion of the gospel beyond traditional Jewish boundaries**, as evidenced by the eager reception among the Gentiles ([Acts 13:42](/acts/13-42 "Acts 13:42 - Gentiles Request More Preaching"), [Acts 13:48](/acts/13-48 "Acts 13:48 - Gentiles Rejoice and Believe")). This expansion, however, often elicits **fierce opposition**, particularly from within the Jewish community, as seen in the "envy" and "blaspheming" described here. This opposition highlights the theme of **rejection of the Messiah and His message** by some of God's chosen people, setting the stage for the gospel's turn to the Gentiles, a pivotal moment in salvation history. Furthermore, the passage subtly introduces the theme of **divine sovereignty in the face of human resistance**, as God's plan for salvation continues to unfold despite the obstacles.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **envy (Greek, _zēlos'_):** While this word can denote positive "zeal" or "ardor" (as in [Romans 10:2](/romans/10-2 "Romans 10:2 - Israel's Zeal Without Knowledge")), its context in Acts 13:45 clearly indicates a negative, destructive emotion. Here, it refers to "jealousy" or "malice," stemming from a covetous resentment of another's success or advantage. The Jews' envy arose from seeing the "multitudes" (especially Gentiles) flocking to Paul's message, which they likely perceived as a threat to their own religious authority, social standing, and exclusive claim to God's favor.
* **contradicting (Greek, _antilégō'_):** This term, derived from "against" (anti) and "to speak" (legō), means "to dispute," "refuse," or "gainsay." It signifies a direct verbal opposition, a speaking against the content of Paul's message. This was not merely a polite disagreement but an active, hostile refutation of the truth being proclaimed, aiming to undermine its credibility and prevent others from believing.
* **blaspheming (Greek, _blasphēméō'_):** This powerful verb means "to vilify," "to speak impiously," "to defame," or "to revile." In this context, it suggests that the opposition escalated beyond mere contradiction to outright slander and abuse. This "blasphemy" could have been directed against Paul, his message, or even against God Himself for working through Paul to extend salvation to the Gentiles, whom they considered unworthy. It signifies a profound rejection and contempt for the divine work unfolding before their eyes.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But when the Jews saw the multitudes,"**: This opening clause establishes the immediate catalyst for the negative reaction. The conjunction "But" (G1161, _dé_) signals a sharp contrast to the positive reception described in the preceding verses. "The Jews" (G2453, _Ioudaîos_) here likely refers to a specific group within the synagogue, possibly leaders or those deeply invested in traditional Judaism, rather than the entire Jewish community. Their act of "seeing" (G1492, _eídō_) the "multitudes" (G3793, _óchlos_) implies not just a physical observation but a full apprehension of the sheer number of people, including many Gentiles, drawn to Paul's preaching.
* **"they were filled with envy,"**: This phrase reveals the internal motivation behind their subsequent actions. The verb "filled" (G4130, _plḗthō_) indicates that envy (G2205, _zēlos_) was not just a passing emotion but thoroughly permeated their being, dominating their thoughts and intentions. This envy likely stemmed from a combination of jealousy over Paul's success, resentment that Gentiles were receiving the message, and a perceived loss of their own religious influence and status.
* **"and spake against those things which were spoken by Paul,"**: This describes the initial manifestation of their envy. The phrase "spake against" (G483, _antilégō_) indicates a verbal opposition to "those things which were spoken" (G3004, _légō_) by Paul (G3972, _Paûlos_). This refers to the core of Paul's gospel message—that Jesus is the Messiah, offering forgiveness and justification through faith. Their speaking against was an attempt to discredit or refute the truth of Paul's proclamation.
* **"contradicting and blaspheming."**: This final clause intensifies the nature of their opposition. "Contradicting" (G483, _antilégō_) reiterates their direct verbal opposition, emphasizing their active gainsaying of Paul's words. The addition of "blaspheming" (G987, _blasphēméō_) signifies an escalation to abusive, slanderous, or impious speech. This was not merely an intellectual disagreement but a hostile, reviling attack, demonstrating a profound spiritual resistance to the gospel and the work of the Holy Spirit.

#### Literary Devices
Luke, the author of Acts, masterfully employs several literary devices in [Acts 13:45](/acts/13-45 "Acts 13:45 - Jewish Opposition in Pisidian Antioch") to highlight the dramatic conflict. The use of **Contrast** is evident from the very beginning with the particle "But," which immediately shifts the narrative from the enthusiastic reception of the gospel to the bitter opposition. This creates a stark juxtaposition between the eager "multitudes" and the envious "Jews." **Pathos** is powerfully conveyed through the phrase "filled with envy," which exposes the deep-seated emotional root of their hostility. This isn't a rational theological debate but an emotional reaction driven by jealousy and a sense of threatened privilege. The escalating verbs—"spake against," "contradicting," and "blaspheming"—demonstrate **Climax** or **Gradation**, showing the progression from simple opposition to outright, vitriolic slander. This literary progression emphasizes the severe and unholy nature of their rejection. Furthermore, the scene serves as **Foreshadowing**, setting a pattern of Jewish opposition to the gospel that recurs throughout the book of Acts, ultimately leading to the apostles' strategic shift towards the Gentiles.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 13:45 is a pivotal moment that underscores the tragic reality of human resistance to divine truth, particularly when that truth challenges deeply held traditions or perceived exclusive privileges. The envy displayed by these Jews is not merely a personal failing but a theological one, revealing a heart closed to God's expansive grace. Their opposition to Paul's message, culminating in blasphemy, signifies a rejection of the Holy Spirit's work and the very Messiah they claimed to await. This passage reveals that the gospel, while a message of salvation, also acts as a dividing line, exposing the true state of hearts and prompting a choice for or against God's unfolding plan. It also highlights the enduring truth that God's mission will not be thwarted by human opposition; rather, such resistance often serves as a catalyst for the gospel to reach new, unexpected audiences, as seen in the subsequent turning to the Gentiles.

* [Romans 1:29](/romans/1-29 "Romans 1:29 - List of Sins")
* [Galatians 5:21](/galatians/5-21 "Galatians 5:21 - Works of the Flesh")
* [James 3:16](/james/3-16 "James 3:16 - Earthly Wisdom")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 13:45 serves as a potent reminder that the proclamation of the gospel, while bringing joy and salvation to many, will inevitably encounter resistance. This resistance often stems not from a lack of understanding, but from deep-seated emotions like envy, pride, or a sense of threatened control. For contemporary believers, this passage encourages us to anticipate opposition when faithfully sharing the good news of Jesus Christ. It challenges us to examine our own hearts: do we ever harbor envy when others succeed in ministry or when God works in ways we didn't expect? Do we ever find ourselves "contradicting" or "blaspheming" (in word or attitude) against God's work simply because it doesn't align with our preferences or traditions? The passage calls us to humility, reminding us that salvation is by grace for all who believe, not a privilege to be hoarded or a status to be defended. Our response to opposition should mirror that of Paul and Barnabas: steadfastness in truth, willingness to pivot where God leads, and unwavering faith in the Spirit's power to advance the Kingdom despite human resistance.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What forms of "envy" or "jealousy" might hinder the spread of the gospel in our own contexts or within the church today?**
* **How does this passage prepare us to respond when our faith or the message of Christ is "contradicted" or "blasphemed" by others?**
* **In what ways might we, perhaps unknowingly, resist God's work when it expands beyond our comfort zones or expectations?**
* **What lessons can we draw from Paul and Barnabas's example in the face of such intense opposition?**

### FAQ
**Why were "the Jews" specifically mentioned as being filled with envy, and does this imply all Jews rejected Paul's message?**

Answer: The phrase "the Jews" in [Acts 13:45](/acts/13-45 "Acts 13:45 - Jewish Opposition in Pisidian Antioch") refers to a specific group within the Jewish community in Pisidian Antioch, likely those in positions of authority or influence within the synagogue who felt threatened by Paul's message and its widespread appeal, especially among the Gentiles. It does not imply that all Jews rejected Paul's message; indeed, earlier in the chapter, "many of the Jews and devout proselytes followed Paul and Barnabas" ([Acts 13:43](/acts/13-43 "Acts 13:43 - Many Jews and Proselytes Follow Paul and Barnabas")). Luke's narrative often distinguishes between receptive and resistant Jewish groups. Their envy stemmed from seeing the "multitudes," including Gentiles, embracing a message that challenged their exclusive claims to God's favor and their established religious authority. This opposition was a recurring pattern in Acts, but it was never universal among Jewish people.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 13:45, while detailing human opposition, profoundly points to Christ in its unfolding narrative. The envy and blasphemy directed at Paul's message are, at their core, a rejection of Jesus Himself, for Paul preached Christ as the fulfillment of God's promises ([Acts 13:23-39](/acts/13-23-39 "Acts 13:23-39 - Paul Preaches Christ in Antioch")). Just as Paul faced contradiction and reviling, so too did Christ endure the envy and blasphemy of religious leaders during His earthly ministry ([Matthew 27:18](/matthew/27-18 "Matthew 27:18 - Pilate Knew They Had Handed Jesus Over Out of Envy"); [Mark 15:10](/mark/15-10 "Mark 15:10 - Pilate Knew It Was Envy")). The very "multitudes" (G3793, _óchlos_) who flocked to Paul's preaching foreshadow the universal scope of the gospel, a truth central to Christ's mission to draw all people to Himself ([John 12:32](/john/12-32 "John 12:32 - Jesus Will Draw All People to Himself")). The turning of Paul and Barnabas to the Gentiles ([Acts 13:46-47](/acts/13-46-47 "Acts 13:46-47 - Paul and Barnabas Turn to the Gentiles")), spurred by this Jewish rejection, directly fulfills Old Testament prophecy regarding the Messiah as a "light to the Gentiles" ([Isaiah 49:6](/isaiah/49-6 "Isaiah 49:6 - A Light to the Gentiles")). Thus, the opposition in Acts 13:45, far from thwarting God's plan, serves as a divine catalyst, demonstrating that Christ's redemptive work transcends ethnic boundaries, offering salvation to all who believe, Jew and Gentile alike, through His finished work on the cross ([Ephesians 2:14-16](/ephesians/2-14-16 "Ephesians 2:14-16 - Christ Has Broken Down the Wall of Hostility")).

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

Jude 1:10

But these speak evil of those things which they know not: but what they know naturally, as brute beasts, in those things they corrupt themselves.

Acts 18:6

And when they opposed themselves, and blasphemed, he shook [his] raiment, and said unto them, Your blood [be] upon your own heads; I [am] clean: from henceforth I will go unto the Gentiles.

Acts 19:9

But when divers were hardened, and believed not, but spake evil of that way before the multitude, he departed from them, and separated the disciples, disputing daily in the school of one Tyrannus.

1 Thessalonians 2:16

Forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles that they might be saved, to fill up their sins alway: for the wrath is come upon them to the uttermost.

Acts 5:17

¶ Then the high priest rose up, and all they that were with him, (which is the sect of the Sadducees,) and were filled with indignation,

Acts 17:5

But the Jews which believed not, moved with envy, took unto them certain lewd fellows of the baser sort, and gathered a company, and set all the city on an uproar, and assaulted the house of Jason, and sought to bring them out to the people.

1 Peter 4:4

¶ Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with [them] to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of [you]: