17:33 17:33

Acts 17:34

18:1 18:1

Bible Versions

Howbeit certain men clave unto him, and believed: among the which [was] Dionysius the Areopagite, and a woman named Damaris, and others with them.
Howbeit {G1161} certain {G5100} men {G435} clave {G2853} unto him {G846}, and believed {G4100}: among {G1722} the which {G3739}{G2532} was Dionysius {G1354} the Areopagite {G698}, and {G2532} a woman {G1135} named {G3686} Damaris {G1152}, and {G2532} others {G2087} with {G4862} them {G846}.
But some men stayed with him and came to trust, including the High Council member Dionysius; there was also a woman named Damaris; and others came to trust along with them.
But some joined him and believed, including Dionysius the Areopagite, a woman named Damaris, and others who were with them.
But certain men clave unto him, and believed: among whom also was Dionysius the Areopagite, and a woman named Damaris, and others with them.

Acts 17:34 concludes the account of Paul's powerful sermon on the Areopagus (Mars Hill) in Athens. While many mocked or deferred, this verse highlights the positive outcome: a group of individuals genuinely embraced the Gospel and joined Paul, becoming some of the earliest believers in Athens. It underscores the selective but profound impact of the divine message even amidst widespread skepticism.

Context

This verse follows Paul's profound discourse to the Athenian philosophers and intellectuals on Mars Hill. Paul, observing their altar to an "UNKNOWN GOD," leveraged this as a starting point to declare the true God, the Creator of all things, who does not dwell in temples made with hands. His sermon culminated in the declaration of God's command for all people everywhere to repent, because He has appointed a day to judge the world by a man whom He has raised from the dead (Acts 17:31). It was the mention of the resurrection that caused division among his hearers, leading some to mock, others to postpone, and a few to believe.

Key Themes

  • The Power of the Gospel: Despite significant opposition and intellectual disdain, the message of Jesus Christ's resurrection still had the power to penetrate hearts and bring about genuine conversion.
  • Individual Response to Truth: This verse emphasizes that belief is a personal choice and commitment, even when the majority reject the message. It highlights the importance of an individual's spiritual journey.
  • Diversity of Believers: The inclusion of Dionysius, a prominent figure, and Damaris, a woman, demonstrates the Gospel's universal appeal, transcending social status, gender, and intellectual background. The early Christian community was inclusive from its very beginnings.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "clave unto him" is an archaic KJV translation of the Greek word proskollaó (προσκολλάω), which means to "glue to," "join oneself to," or "adhere closely." It signifies a deep attachment and commitment, indicating that these individuals didn't just intellectually agree with Paul's message but fully embraced it and associated themselves with him and the nascent Christian movement. This goes beyond mere curiosity, representing a true act of faith and discipleship.

Notable Converts

  • Dionysius the Areopagite: His conversion is highly significant. An "Areopagite" was a member of the Areopagus, the supreme court and council of Athens, composed of former archons. This body was highly respected for its wisdom and authority. Dionysius's belief shows that the Gospel could reach and transform even the most educated and influential members of society, demonstrating that the truth of Christ appeals to all, including those of high intellect and standing.
  • Damaris: The mention of Damaris, a woman, is equally important. In ancient Athenian society, women often had limited public roles. Her inclusion among the believers underscores the radical inclusivity of the early Christian community, which welcomed and valued women as full participants, a principle affirmed elsewhere in Scripture regarding unity in Christ (Galatians 3:28).

Practical Application

Acts 17:34 offers encouragement to believers today. It reminds us that even when the Gospel is met with ridicule or indifference, God's Word will never return void (Isaiah 55:11). There will always be those whose hearts God prepares to receive the truth. This verse also teaches us about the diverse nature of God's kingdom; it is open to all who genuinely respond in faith, regardless of their background, intellect, or social standing. We are called to share the good news broadly, trusting that God will draw those He has chosen to Himself, just as He did in Athens.

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.

  • Acts 17:19

    And they took him, and brought him unto Areopagus, saying, May we know what this new doctrine, whereof thou speakest, [is]?

  • Romans 11:5

    Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.

  • Romans 11:6

    And if by grace, then [is it] no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if [it be] of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work.

  • Acts 13:48

    And when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad, and glorified the word of the Lord: and as many as were ordained to eternal life believed.

  • Acts 17:4

    And some of them believed, and consorted with Paul and Silas; and of the devout Greeks a great multitude, and of the chief women not a few.

  • Acts 17:22

    ¶ Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars' hill, and said, [Ye] men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious.

  • Isaiah 55:10

    For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater:
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