Acts 17:4

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} some {G5100} of {G1537} them {G846} believed {G3982}, and {G2532} consorted {G4345} with Paul {G3972} and {G2532} Silas {G4609}; and {G5037} of the devout {G4576} Greeks {G1672} a great {G4183} multitude {G4128}, and {G5037} of the chief {G4413} women {G1135} not {G3756} a few {G3641}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Some of the Jews were persuaded and threw in their lot with Sha’ul and Sila, as did a great many of the Greek men who were “God-fearers,” and not a few of the leading women.

Berean Standard Bible

Some of the Jews were persuaded and joined Paul and Silas, along with a large number of God-fearing Greeks and quite a few leading women.

American Standard Version

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

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 17:4 describes the immediate and diverse impact of Paul and Silas's gospel ministry in Thessalonica, detailing the varied groups who responded positively to their preaching. Following Paul's custom of engaging with the Jewish community in the synagogue, the verse highlights that not only some Jews believed and closely associated with the apostles, but also a significant number of "devout Greeks" (Gentile God-fearers) and several prominent women embraced the message, demonstrating the broad appeal and inclusive nature of the early Christian movement across social, ethnic, and gender lines.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Acts 17:4 immediately follows Paul's three-Sabbath ministry in the Thessalonian synagogue, as detailed in [Acts 17:2-3](/acts/17-2-3 "Paul's Ministry in Thessalonica"). Paul, in accordance with his usual practice (cf. [Acts 13:5](/acts/13-5 "Paul's Custom in Salamis")), first presented the Gospel to the Jews and God-fearing Gentiles, reasoning from the Old Testament Scriptures that the Messiah had to suffer and rise from the dead. This verse serves as the direct outcome of that synagogue ministry, showcasing the initial converts before the narrative shifts to the Jewish opposition that quickly arose (cf. [Acts 17:5](/acts/17-5 "Jewish Opposition in Thessalonica")). It sets the stage for the subsequent persecution and Paul and Silas's departure from the city.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Thessalonica was a bustling Roman provincial capital and a major port city in Macedonia, strategically located on the Egnatian Way, a significant Roman road. Its diverse population included Roman citizens, Greeks, and a Jewish community with a synagogue. The presence of "devout Greeks" (also known as God-fearers) was common in synagogues throughout the Roman Empire. These were Gentiles who, while not fully converting to Judaism (e.g., through circumcision for men), embraced its monotheism, moral code, and attended synagogue services. Women in Roman society, particularly those of higher status, could hold significant influence, often managing households and participating in public life. Their inclusion among the converts underscores the Gospel's appeal beyond traditional societal boundaries and its transformative power within the existing social structures.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully illustrates several key themes prevalent in the book of Acts and the broader New Testament. Firstly, it highlights the **universal appeal of the Gospel**, demonstrating that the message of Christ transcends ethnic and social barriers, reaching both Jews and Gentiles, men and women, and people of varying social standing (cf. [Galatians 3:28](/galatians/3-28 "Unity in Christ")). Secondly, it underscores the **inclusivity of the early church**, showing how the nascent Christian community welcomed all who believed, forming a new spiritual family (cf. [Acts 2:42-47](/acts/2-42-47 "Life in the Early Church")). Finally, it exemplifies the **effectiveness of apostolic preaching**, as Paul and Silas's reasoned and Spirit-empowered proclamation of the crucified and risen Christ directly led to genuine conversions and a committed fellowship, a pattern seen throughout the missionary journeys documented in [Acts](/acts/1 "The Book of Acts").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **believed (Greek, _peíthō'_):** From G3982, meaning "to convince (by argument, true or false); by analogy, to pacify or conciliate (by other fair means); reflexively or passively, to assent (to evidence or authority), to rely (by inward certainty)." In this context, it signifies a genuine conviction and trust in the message Paul and Silas proclaimed about Jesus as the Messiah, leading to a personal commitment and reliance on Him.
* **consorted (Greek, _prosklēróō'_):** From G4345, meaning "to give a common lot to, i.e. (figuratively) to associate with." This word implies a deep commitment and close association. It's more than just attending meetings; it suggests that these new believers fully identified with Paul and Silas, sharing their mission, their company, and potentially their fate, indicating a profound integration into the burgeoning Christian community.
* **devout (Greek, _sébomai'_):** From G4576, meaning "to revere, i.e. adore." This term describes individuals who were reverent or religious, specifically referring to the "God-fearers" (Gentiles who worshiped the God of Israel and adhered to Jewish moral principles without full conversion). They were already seeking spiritual truth and were therefore particularly receptive to the Gospel message, having a foundational understanding of the Old Testament.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And some of them believed":** This phrase refers to a portion of the Jewish community and perhaps some of the God-fearers who were already present in the synagogue. It indicates that while not everyone accepted the message, a significant segment was convinced by Paul's arguments from the Scriptures concerning Jesus as the Messiah. This highlights the initial, though partial, success within the traditional Jewish setting.
* **"and consorted with Paul and Silas":** This clause describes the profound commitment of the new believers. Their faith was not merely intellectual assent but led to a deep, active association with the apostles. This "consorting" implies joining their company, sharing their mission, and becoming part of the nascent Christian community, indicating a radical shift in their allegiances and lifestyle.
* **"and of the devout Greeks a great multitude":** This points to a much larger group of converts from among the "God-fearers"—Gentiles who had already been attracted to Judaism's monotheism and ethical teachings. Their prior spiritual seeking made them fertile ground for the Gospel, and their conversion in "great multitude" signifies a significant influx of Gentiles into the early church, demonstrating the expansive reach of the Good News beyond ethnic Judaism.
* **"and of the chief women not a few":** This final phrase emphasizes the conversion of women of high social standing, influence, or wealth in Thessalonica. The use of "not a few" (a litotes, meaning "many") indicates a substantial number. Their conversion is significant because it shows the Gospel's appeal across all social strata and highlights the important role women played in the early church, often providing resources, influence, and leadership within their spheres.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs **Enumeration** and **Inclusivity** to convey its message. The text lists distinct groups of converts: "some of them" (referring to Jews), "a great multitude" of "devout Greeks," and "not a few" of "chief women." This enumeration effectively demonstrates the broad and diverse appeal of the Gospel message. This listing, in turn, underscores the theme of **Inclusivity**, showcasing how the early Christian community transcended traditional societal divisions of ethnicity, social status, and gender. The implicit **Contrast** between the initial Jewish audience (from whom "some" believed) and the "great multitude" of Gentiles and "not a few" prominent women highlights the dramatic shift in the demographic of the nascent church, emphasizing the universal nature of salvation offered through Christ.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 17:4 powerfully illustrates the transformative and unifying power of the Gospel, demonstrating its ability to bridge deep societal divides. The conversion of Jews, devout Greeks, and prominent women underscores the New Testament truth that in Christ, traditional distinctions of ethnicity, social standing, and gender are transcended, forming a new community bound by faith. This inclusivity reflects God's universal redemptive plan, extending salvation to all who believe, regardless of their background. The immediate commitment of these new believers to "consort with Paul and Silas" also highlights the importance of fellowship and association with God's servants and the wider body of Christ, a vital aspect of discipleship and growth in the early church.

* [Galatians 3:28](/galatians/3-28 "Unity in Christ")
* [Colossians 3:11](/colossians/3-11 "No Distinction in Christ")
* [Acts 2:42](/acts/2-42 "Devotion to Apostolic Teaching and Fellowship")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 17:4 serves as a profound reminder of the Gospel's enduring power to attract and transform individuals from every walk of life. For believers today, this verse challenges us to cultivate churches that genuinely reflect the diverse tapestry of humanity, actively welcoming and integrating people from all ethnic, socioeconomic, and gender backgrounds. Just as the "devout Greeks" were seeking truth, we are called to be attentive to the spiritually curious in our communities, engaging them with the clear and compelling message of Christ. Furthermore, the commitment of these early converts to "consort with" Paul and Silas emphasizes the vital importance of deep, intentional fellowship within the body of Christ. True faith leads to active participation in the community of believers, where mutual support, encouragement, and shared mission are paramount. Recognizing that God uses every believer, regardless of their social standing or past, empowers us to embrace our unique roles in advancing His kingdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the diversity of converts in Acts 17:4 challenge my own assumptions about who the Gospel is "for"?**
* **In what ways can my church community better reflect the inclusivity seen in the early Thessalonian church?**
* **What does it mean for me to "consort with" other believers and with those who proclaim the Gospel today?**
* **How can I better recognize and affirm the value and potential contribution of every person in my spiritual community, regardless of their background or social standing?**

### FAQ

**Who were the "devout Greeks" mentioned in Acts 17:4?**

Answer: The "devout Greeks" (Greek: _sebomai Hellēn_) refers to a group often called "God-fearers" or "God-worshippers." These were Gentiles who, while not fully converting to Judaism (which would typically involve circumcision for men, adherence to all Mosaic laws, and ritual purity), had nevertheless embraced the monotheism of the Jewish faith, rejected polytheism, and often attended synagogue services. They were attracted to the ethical monotheism and moral framework of Judaism and revered the God of Israel. As such, they were already spiritually open and had a foundational understanding of the Old Testament Scriptures, making them particularly receptive to the Gospel message when it was proclaimed by Paul and Silas, as seen in other passages like [Acts 13:43](/acts/13-43 "God-fearers in Antioch").

**What was the significance of "chief women" believing in Thessalonica?**

Answer: The phrase "chief women" (Greek: _prōtos gynḗ_) indicates women of high social standing, influence, or wealth in Thessalonica. Their conversion was highly significant for several reasons. Firstly, it demonstrates the Gospel's appeal across all social strata, not just to the marginalized. Secondly, women of influence often had networks and resources that could greatly aid the nascent Christian community, potentially offering meeting places, financial support, and social connections. Thirdly, it highlights the prominent and active role women played in the early church, a theme seen elsewhere in Acts (e.g., [Lydia in Philippi](/acts/16-14 "Lydia's Conversion")). Their conversion challenged traditional patriarchal norms and underscored the radical equality and value afforded to all believers in Christ.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 17:4, with its depiction of diverse converts—Jews, devout Greeks, and prominent women—beautifully foreshadows the universal scope of Christ's redemptive work. Jesus's mission was not confined to a single ethnicity or social class; He came to reconcile all humanity to God. His death and resurrection broke down the dividing wall of hostility, creating one new humanity in Himself (cf. [Ephesians 2:14-16](/ephesians/2-14-16 "Christ Our Peace")). The "great multitude" of devout Greeks and "not a few" chief women responding to the Gospel in Thessalonica is a tangible demonstration of the promise that Christ would draw all people to Himself (cf. [John 12:32](/john/12-32 "Jesus Will Draw All People")). This verse points to the fulfillment of God's ancient covenant with Abraham, that through his offspring, all the families of the earth would be blessed (cf. [Genesis 12:3](/genesis/12-3 "The Abrahamic Covenant")). The church, as the body of Christ, is meant to be a living testament to this truth, a community where "there is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus" (cf. [Galatians 3:28](/galatians/3-28 "Unity in Christ")). Thus, the conversions in Acts 17:4 are not merely historical events but a vibrant illustration of Christ's ongoing work to gather His redeemed people from every nation, tribe, and tongue into His glorious kingdom (cf. [Revelation 7:9](/revelation/7-9 "Multitude from Every Nation")).

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 17:12

Therefore many of them believed; also of honourable women which were Greeks, and of men, not a few.

Acts 13:43

Now when the congregation was broken up, many of the Jews and religious proselytes followed Paul and Barnabas: who, speaking to them, persuaded them to continue in the grace of God.

Acts 14:4

But the multitude of the city was divided: and part held with the Jews, and part with the apostles.

Acts 13:50

But the Jews stirred up the devout and honourable women, and the chief men of the city, and raised persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them out of their coasts.

Acts 28:24

And some believed the things which were spoken, and some believed not.

Acts 15:22

¶ Then pleased it the apostles and elders, with the whole church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas; [namely], Judas surnamed Barsabas, and Silas, chief men among the brethren:

2 Corinthians 8:5

And [this they did], not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God.