Acts 17:4

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.

Study Bible

Some of the Jews were persuaded
The phrase "some of the Jews were persuaded" indicates a significant moment in the early Christian mission. The Greek word for "persuaded" is "peitho," which implies a deep conviction and trust. This persuasion was not merely intellectual but a heartfelt acceptance of the Gospel message. Historically, this reflects the openness of some Jewish individuals to the fulfillment of their Messianic expectations in Jesus Christ, despite the prevailing resistance from the Jewish religious leaders.

and joined Paul and Silas
The act of joining Paul and Silas signifies more than just physical accompaniment; it represents a spiritual alignment and commitment to the teachings of the apostles. The Greek word "proskleroo" suggests a close association or attachment. This joining is a testament to the power of the Gospel to unite diverse individuals under the banner of Christ, forming the early Christian community.

along with a large number of God-fearing Greeks
The term "God-fearing Greeks" refers to Gentiles who were attracted to Judaism and its monotheistic beliefs but had not fully converted. These individuals were often found in synagogues, seeking spiritual truth. The Greek word "sebomenoi" denotes reverence and worship, highlighting their sincere pursuit of God. Their conversion to Christianity underscores the universal appeal of the Gospel and the breaking down of ethnic and cultural barriers.

and quite a few leading women
The mention of "leading women" is significant, as it highlights the inclusive nature of the early Christian movement. In the Greco-Roman world, women of status often held influence in social and religious spheres. The Greek term "protos" indicates prominence or leadership. Their conversion and involvement in the church demonstrate the transformative impact of the Gospel, which elevates the role of women and affirms their value in the Kingdom of God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul and Silas
Key figures in the early Christian church, missionaries spreading the Gospel. Paul, formerly Saul, was a Pharisee who converted to Christianity and became a leading apostle. Silas was a leader in the early church and a companion of Paul on his missionary journeys.

2. Jews
Members of the Jewish community in Thessalonica, some of whom were persuaded by Paul's message and joined the Christian faith.

3. God-fearing Greeks
Non-Jewish individuals who were sympathetic to Jewish religious practices and beliefs, often attending synagogue services. They were open to the message of the Gospel.

4. Leading Women
Prominent women in Thessalonica who were influential in society and also responded to the Gospel message.

5. Thessalonica
A major city in Macedonia, an important center for trade and culture, where Paul and Silas preached the Gospel.

Teaching Points

The Power of Persuasion
The Gospel message has the power to persuade and transform lives. We should be prepared to share it with clarity and conviction.

Inclusivity of the Gospel
The Gospel is for everyone—Jews, Greeks, men, and women. We should strive to reach diverse groups in our communities.

Role of Influential Individuals
God can use people of influence to further His kingdom. We should pray for and engage with leaders in our communities.

Community and Fellowship
Joining Paul and Silas indicates a commitment to community and fellowship. We should encourage new believers to become part of a supportive church community.

Cultural Context
Understanding the cultural and societal context can enhance our evangelism efforts. We should seek to understand the backgrounds of those we are reaching out to.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from the response of the Jews, God-fearing Greeks, and leading women to the Gospel message in Acts 17:4?

2. How does the inclusion of diverse groups in Acts 17:4 challenge us to think about our own outreach efforts?

3. In what ways can we be more persuasive in sharing the Gospel, following the example of Paul and Silas?

4. How can influential individuals in our communities be reached with the Gospel, and what role might they play in the church?

5. Reflect on a time when you joined a new community or group. How did that experience help you grow, and how can you apply that to welcoming new believers into your church?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 16:14-15
The conversion of Lydia, a leading woman in Philippi, shows a pattern of influential women responding to the Gospel.

Romans 1:16
Paul emphasizes the power of the Gospel for salvation to everyone who believes, first to the Jew, then to the Gentile, reflecting the diverse group in Acts 17:4.

1 Thessalonians 1:5-6
Paul later writes to the Thessalonians, affirming their reception of the Gospel with power and conviction, which began during this visit.