Acts 17:2

And Paul, as his manner was, went in unto them, and three sabbath days reasoned with them out of the scriptures,

And {G1161} Paul {G3972}, as {G2596} his manner was {G1486}, went in {G1525} unto {G4314} them {G846}, and {G2532}{G1909} three {G5140} sabbath {G4521} days reasoned {G1256} with them {G846} out of {G575} the scriptures {G1124},

According to his usual practice, Sha’ul went in; and on three Shabbats he gave them drashes from the Tanakh,

As was his custom, Paul went into the synagogue, and on three Sabbaths he reasoned with them from the Scriptures,

and Paul, as his custom was, went in unto them, and for three sabbath days reasoned with them from the scriptures,

Commentary

Acts 17:2 provides a concise yet profound insight into the Apostle Paul's consistent and strategic approach to evangelism during his second missionary journey. This verse highlights his commitment to presenting the Gospel message through reasoned discussion based on the Old Testament Scriptures.

Historical and Cultural Context

Upon arriving in Thessalonica, a significant city in the Roman province of Macedonia, Paul followed his established pattern of ministry. His "manner" (or custom) was to first visit the local synagogue. Synagogues served not only as places of Jewish worship but also as community hubs where religious discussions and teachings took place. This allowed Paul to engage with those already familiar with the Old Testament Scriptures and the expectation of a Messiah. This practice is seen consistently in Paul's ministry, from his early evangelistic efforts in places like Salamis (Acts 13:5) to his later work in Corinth (Acts 18:4).

Key Themes

  • Paul's Evangelistic Strategy: Paul's approach demonstrates a deliberate strategy to begin his ministry in a new city by engaging with the Jewish community first. This provided a common ground for discussion and a natural entry point for sharing how Jesus fulfilled their long-held hopes.
  • Authority of Scripture: The phrase "reasoned with them out of the scriptures" underscores the absolute authority Paul placed on the Old Testament. He did not appeal to personal experience or philosophical arguments alone, but systematically demonstrated how Jesus Christ was the promised Messiah foretold in their sacred texts.
  • Patience and Persistence in Ministry: Paul spent "three sabbath days" engaging with the Thessalonian Jews. This indicates a commitment to patient, sustained teaching and discussion, acknowledging that understanding and accepting the Gospel often requires time and repeated exposure to the truth.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated "reasoned" is dialegomai (διαλέγομαι), from which we derive the English word "dialogue." This term implies more than just lecturing; it suggests an interactive process of discussion, debate, and logical argumentation. Paul was not simply delivering a monologue; he was actively engaging in a two-way conversation, presenting evidence, answering questions, and clarifying misunderstandings, demonstrating how Christ fulfilled the prophecies concerning Himself.

Practical Application

Acts 17:2 offers timeless principles for believers today who seek to share their faith.

  • Rooted in the Word: Like Paul, our witness should be firmly grounded in the Bible. Understanding and being able to explain the Scriptures are crucial for effectively communicating the Gospel message.
  • Engage in Thoughtful Dialogue: Instead of merely proclaiming, we are called to engage in respectful and logical discussions, addressing questions and objections with grace and truth.
  • Commitment and Patience: Sharing the Gospel is often a process that requires persistence and patience. Not everyone will respond immediately, but consistent, prayerful sowing of the Word can lead to spiritual growth and ultimately, conversion, as God gives the increase (1 Corinthians 3:6).
This verse encourages a confident, biblically-informed, and relational approach to sharing the good news of Jesus Christ.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Acts 9:20 (5 votes)

    And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God.

  • Acts 14:1 (4 votes)

    ¶ And it came to pass in Iconium, that they went both together into the synagogue of the Jews, and so spake, that a great multitude both of the Jews and also of the Greeks believed.

  • Acts 18:4 (4 votes)

    And he reasoned in the synagogue every sabbath, and persuaded the Jews and the Greeks.

  • Acts 13:5 (4 votes)

    And when they were at Salamis, they preached the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews: and they had also John to [their] minister.

  • Acts 17:17 (4 votes)

    Therefore disputed he in the synagogue with the Jews, and with the devout persons, and in the market daily with them that met with him.

  • Acts 17:10 (4 votes)

    ¶ And the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night unto Berea: who coming [thither] went into the synagogue of the Jews.

  • John 18:20 (3 votes)

    Jesus answered him, I spake openly to the world; I ever taught in the synagogue, and in the temple, whither the Jews always resort; and in secret have I said nothing.