Acts 28:24

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

And {G2532} some {G3303} believed {G3982} the things which were spoken {G3004}, and {G1161} some believed not {G569}.

Some were convinced by what he said,

Some of them were convinced by what he said, but others refused to believe.

And some believed the things which were spoken, and some disbelieved.

Commentary

Context of Acts 28:24

Acts 28:24 marks a pivotal moment in the narrative of the Apostle Paul's ministry, specifically during his house arrest in Rome. Having arrived in the imperial capital, Paul, ever eager to share the Gospel, called together the chief of the local Jews. He explained his situation, emphasizing that he was imprisoned not for any crime against Caesar or the Jewish law, but for the hope of Israel – the Messiah, Jesus Christ. He then spent an entire day, from morning till evening, reasoning with them from the Law of Moses and from the prophets concerning Jesus. This verse summarizes the immediate outcome of that extensive dialogue.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Varied Response to the Gospel: The verse directly illustrates the fundamental reality that the message of salvation, no matter how clearly presented or by whom, always elicits a diverse response. Some will embrace it, while others will reject it. This pattern of belief and unbelief is consistent throughout the New Testament, notably seen in Jesus' own ministry (John 12:37).
  • Human Free Will and Responsibility: The division among the Jewish leaders underscores the concept of human responsibility in responding to divine truth. Despite hearing the same message from the same apostle, individuals made different choices, highlighting the active role of personal conviction and will.
  • Paul's Unwavering Faithfulness: Even when faced with mixed results, Paul remained faithful to his mission. This verse sets the stage for his continued ministry in Rome, where he would preach the kingdom of God with all confidence for two years, as recorded in the subsequent verses.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV's "believed" and "believed not" translate distinct Greek verbs that offer nuance. The phrase "believed the things which were spoken" comes from the verb episteuon (ἔπιστευον), an imperfect form of pisteuō, meaning "to trust, to be persuaded, to have faith." This implies a receptive, ongoing act of believing or assenting to the truth of Paul's words about Jesus. Conversely, "some believed not" translates epeithonto (ἐπείθοντο), an imperfect passive form of peithō, which means "to persuade." In the passive voice, it means "to be persuaded." When used with a negative, as here, it often implies a refusal to be persuaded or convinced, even resistance, rather than mere neutrality. It suggests an active decision not to accept the evidence or arguments presented.

Practical Application

Acts 28:24 offers timeless lessons for believers today. Firstly, it reminds us that the effectiveness of the Gospel message is not measured solely by universal acceptance. Opposition and rejection are to be expected, just as they were for Paul and even for Jesus Himself. Secondly, it underscores the importance of faithfully proclaiming the truth, regardless of the immediate outcome. Our role is to sow the seed; God gives the increase. Finally, it highlights the personal and profound choice each individual faces when confronted with the claims of Christ, a choice that carries eternal significance.

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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 14:4

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

  • 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 17:5

    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.

  • Acts 19:8

    ¶ And he went into the synagogue, and spake boldly for the space of three months, disputing and persuading the things concerning the kingdom of God.

  • 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.

  • Romans 3:3

    For what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make the faith of God without effect?

  • 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.
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