Acts 17:34

But some joined him and believed, including Dionysius the Areopagite, a woman named Damaris, and others who were with them.

Study Bible

But some joined him and believed
This phrase marks a pivotal moment in Paul's ministry in Athens. The Greek word for "joined" is "κολλάω" (kollao), which means to glue or cement together. This implies a strong, committed attachment to Paul and his teachings. The act of believing, "πιστεύω" (pisteuo), signifies more than intellectual assent; it denotes a deep trust and faith in the message of the Gospel. Historically, Athens was a center of philosophical thought, and the fact that some Athenians were moved to join Paul highlights the power of the Gospel to transcend cultural and intellectual barriers.

including Dionysius the Areopagite
Dionysius is identified as an Areopagite, meaning he was a member of the Areopagus, the high court of Athens. The Areopagus was a prestigious council responsible for overseeing matters of religion and morality. Dionysius's conversion is significant because it represents the Gospel's reach into the upper echelons of Athenian society. His name, derived from the Greek god Dionysus, underscores the transformative power of the Gospel, as someone associated with paganism becomes a follower of Christ. Tradition holds that Dionysius later became the first bishop of Athens, illustrating the lasting impact of his conversion.

a woman named Damaris
Damaris is mentioned alongside Dionysius, highlighting the inclusive nature of the early Christian movement. In a patriarchal society, the mention of a woman by name is significant and suggests her importance in the early church. The name Damaris may be derived from the Greek word "δάμαρ" (damar), meaning wife or spouse, indicating her possible status or role. Her conversion signifies the breaking down of social barriers, as the Gospel message reaches both men and women, offering them equal standing in the faith community.

and others with them
This phrase indicates that Dionysius and Damaris were not alone in their conversion; there were others who also believed. The Greek word "ἕτερος" (heteros) suggests a diversity among those who joined Paul, reflecting the universal appeal of the Gospel. This group of believers represents the beginning of the church in Athens, a city known for its intellectual and cultural achievements. The phrase underscores the communal aspect of faith, as these new believers formed a nascent Christian community, united in their commitment to Christ and His teachings.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Dionysius the Areopagite
A member of the Areopagus, which was a council of elders in Athens responsible for overseeing religious and moral matters. His conversion signifies the impact of Paul's message even among the intellectual elite of Athens.

2. Damaris
A woman who believed Paul's message. Her mention highlights the inclusive nature of the Gospel, reaching both men and women.

3. Athens
A city known for its philosophical and intellectual pursuits. It was a center of Greek culture and thought, making it a significant location for Paul's missionary work.

4. Paul's Missionary Journey
This event is part of Paul's second missionary journey, where he engages with diverse audiences, including Jews, God-fearing Greeks, and philosophers.

5. The Areopagus
A prominent rock outcropping in Athens where philosophical discussions and legal matters were often held. It symbolizes the intersection of faith and reason in Paul's ministry.

Teaching Points

The Power of the Gospel
The Gospel can penetrate even the most intellectual and skeptical environments, as seen in Athens. Believers should be confident in sharing their faith in all settings.

Inclusivity of the Gospel
The mention of both Dionysius and Damaris highlights that the Gospel is for everyone, regardless of gender or social status.

Engaging Culture with Truth
Paul’s approach in Athens shows the importance of understanding and engaging with the culture while presenting the truth of the Gospel.

Faith and Reason
The conversion of Dionysius, a member of the Areopagus, illustrates that faith and reason are not mutually exclusive but can coexist and complement each other.

Personal Response to the Gospel
The varied responses in Athens remind us that while some may mock or dismiss the message, others will believe and join the faith community.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the conversion of Dionysius the Areopagite demonstrate the reach of the Gospel message in intellectual circles today?

2. In what ways can we, like Paul, engage with the cultural and philosophical ideas of our time to share the Gospel effectively?

3. What does the inclusion of Damaris in this passage teach us about the role of women in the early church and in our churches today?

4. How can we balance faith and reason in our own lives, following the example of Paul's ministry in Athens?

5. Reflecting on the varied responses to Paul's message in Athens, how should we respond when people react differently to our sharing of the Gospel?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 17:16-33
Provides context for Paul's speech at the Areopagus, where he addresses the Athenians about their altar to an unknown god, introducing them to the one true God.

1 Corinthians 1:18-25
Discusses the wisdom of God versus the wisdom of the world, relevant to Paul's engagement with the philosophers in Athens.

Romans 1:16
Emphasizes the power of the Gospel for salvation to everyone who believes, Jew and Greek alike, reflecting the diverse audience in Athens.