But when they opposed and insulted him, he shook out his garments and told them, "Your blood be on your own heads! I am innocent of it. From now on I will go to the Gentiles." But when they opposed and insulted himThis phrase captures the resistance Paul faced from the Jewish community in Corinth. The Greek word for "opposed" is "ἀντιτάσσω" (antitassō), which means to arrange in battle against or to resist. This indicates a strong, organized opposition, not just casual disagreement. Historically, this reflects the tension between early Christians and Jews who did not accept Jesus as the Messiah. The word "insulted" comes from the Greek "βλασφημέω" (blasphēmeō), meaning to speak evil or slander. This suggests that the opposition was not only physical but also verbal, attacking Paul's character and message. he shook out his clothes
This action is symbolic and significant. In Jewish tradition, shaking out one's clothes was a gesture of rejection and disassociation. It was a way of saying that one is not responsible for the consequences of another's actions. This act by Paul signifies a formal and public declaration that he is no longer accountable for their rejection of the Gospel. It echoes Jesus' instruction to His disciples in Matthew 10:14, where they were told to shake the dust off their feet when leaving a town that did not welcome them. and told them
Paul's declaration is not just an act of frustration but a prophetic statement. The Greek word "εἶπον" (eipon) is used here, which is a common word for "said" or "told," but in this context, it carries the weight of a solemn pronouncement. Paul is making a clear and decisive statement about the consequences of their actions. ‘Your blood be on your own heads!
This phrase is a powerful declaration of responsibility. The concept of "blood on one's head" is rooted in Old Testament imagery, where it signifies guilt and accountability for one's own actions (see Ezekiel 33:4). Paul is stating that he has fulfilled his duty to preach the Gospel, and now the responsibility for rejecting it lies with them. It underscores the seriousness of rejecting the message of salvation. I am innocent of it
Paul asserts his innocence, using the Greek word "καθαρός" (katharos), meaning clean or pure. This is a declaration of his clear conscience before God. He has done his part in delivering the message, and now he is free from the guilt of their rejection. This reflects the biblical principle that each person is responsible for their own response to God's call. From now on I will go to the Gentiles
This marks a pivotal moment in Paul's ministry. The phrase "from now on" indicates a decisive shift in focus. The Greek word "ἔθνος" (ethnos) is used for "Gentiles," meaning nations or peoples. This is a fulfillment of God's plan for the Gospel to reach all nations, as seen in Acts 1:8. Paul's turning to the Gentiles is not a rejection of the Jews but an expansion of the mission to include all people, reflecting the inclusive nature of the Gospel. This decision is both strategic and divinely ordained, as Paul becomes the apostle to the Gentiles, spreading the message of Christ beyond the Jewish community. Persons / Places / Events 1. PaulThe apostle who is the central figure in this passage. He is preaching the Gospel and facing opposition. 2. Jews in CorinthThe group opposing Paul, rejecting his message about Jesus as the Messiah. 3. CorinthA significant city in ancient Greece where Paul is ministering. Known for its diverse population and moral challenges. 4. GentilesNon-Jewish people to whom Paul decides to turn his ministry focus after facing rejection from the Jews. 5. SynagogueThe place where Paul initially preached to the Jews before turning to the Gentiles. Teaching Points Handling RejectionPaul’s response to opposition teaches us to remain steadfast in our mission, even when faced with rejection. AccountabilityThe phrase "Your blood be on your own heads" emphasizes personal responsibility in accepting or rejecting the Gospel. Focus on the ReceptivePaul’s decision to turn to the Gentiles highlights the importance of focusing our efforts on those open to the message. Symbolic ActionsShaking out his garments is a symbolic act of disassociation, reminding us of the power of symbolic actions in conveying spiritual truths. Broadening MinistryPaul’s shift to the Gentiles encourages us to broaden our ministry scope when faced with closed doors. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Paul’s response to opposition in Acts 18:6 inspire you to handle rejection in your own life? 2. In what ways can you ensure that you are not responsible for others' spiritual decisions, as Paul declared himself innocent? 3. How can you identify when it is time to shift your focus in ministry or personal evangelism, as Paul did? 4. What symbolic actions can you incorporate into your life to reinforce your spiritual commitments? 5. How does Paul’s ministry to the Gentiles challenge you to reach out to those who are different from you or outside your usual circle? Connections to Other Scriptures Matthew 10:14Jesus instructs His disciples to shake the dust off their feet when leaving a town that does not welcome them, similar to Paul's action of shaking out his garments. Ezekiel 33:4-5The concept of being innocent of others' blood is echoed in the watchman's duty to warn the people, paralleling Paul's declaration of innocence. Romans 1:16Paul expresses his commitment to preach the Gospel to both Jews and Gentiles, reflecting his actions in Acts 18:6. 1 Corinthians 1:23Paul acknowledges the stumbling block the message of Christ is to Jews, which is evident in their opposition in Corinth. Acts 13:46Paul and Barnabas declare they will turn to the Gentiles after Jewish rejection, a recurring theme in Paul's ministry. | Personal Religious Responsibility | R. Tuck | Acts 18:6 | | Truth Before the Citadel | W. Clarkson | Acts 18:1-11 | | An Apostolic Pastorate | Monday Club Sermons | Acts 18:1-17 | | Do the Next Thing | J. W. Burn. | Acts 18:1-17 | | Paul At Corinth | H. R. Haweis, M. A. | Acts 18:1-17 | | Paul At Corinth | F. W. Robertson, M. A. | Acts 18:1-17 | | Paul At Corinth | M. C. Hazard. | Acts 18:1-17 | | Paul At Corinth | T. D. Witherspoon, D. D. | Acts 18:1-17 | | Paul At Corinth | A. Barnes, D. D. | Acts 18:1-17 | | Paul At Corinth | D. Thomas, D. D. | Acts 18:1-17 | | Paul At Corinth | J. Parker, D. D. | Acts 18:1-17 | | Paul At Corinth | C. A. Dickinson. | Acts 18:1-17 | | Paul At Corinth | R. Rhees. | Acts 18:1-17 | | Paul At Corinth | D. J. Burrell, D. D. | Acts 18:1-17 | | Paul At Corinth | F. Goodall, B. A. | Acts 18:1-17 | | Paul At Corinth | E. Johnson | Acts 18:1-17 | | The Value of Unsuccessful Missionaries | | Acts 18:1-17 | | Encouragements -- Divine and Human | J. Parker, D. D. | Acts 18:5-8 | | Enthusiasm Justified | R. S. Storrs, D. D. | Acts 18:5-8 | | Faithful Ministry | R.A. Radford | Acts 18:5-11 |
People Apollos, Aquila, Claudius, Corinthians, Crispus, Gallio, John, Justus, Paul, Priscilla, Silas, Sosthenes, Timotheus, Timothy, TitusPlaces Achaia, Alexandria, Athens, Caesarea, Cenchreae, Corinth, Ephesus, Galatia, Italy, Macedonia, Phrygia, Pontus, Rome, Syria, Syrian AntiochTopics Abusive, Blasphemed, Blood, Clean, Clear, Clothes, Clothing, Evil, Future, Garments, Gentiles, Heads, Henceforth, Injuriously, Innocent, Language, Nations, Opposed, Opposing, Paul, Protest, Pure, Raiment, Resisted, Resisting, Responsibility, Responsible, Reviled, Ruin, Shaken, Shaking, Shook, Speaking, Spoke, ThemselvesDictionary of Bible Themes Acts 18:6 5051 responsibility
5775 abuse
5814 confrontation
5893 insults
7318 blood, symbol of guilt
7512 Gentiles, in NT
8427 evangelism, kinds of
8483 spiritual warfare, causes Acts 18:1-6 7505 Jews, the Acts 18:4-6 7760 preachers, responsibilities Acts 18:5-6 8712 denial of Christ Library 'Constrained by the Word'
'And when Silas and Timotheus were come from Macedonia, Paul was pressed in the spirit, and testified.'--ACTS xviii. 5. The Revised Version, in concurrence with most recent authorities, reads, instead of 'pressed in the spirit,' 'constrained by the word.' One of these alterations depends on a diversity of reading, the other on a difference of translation. The one introduces a significant difference of meaning; the other is rather a change of expression. The word rendered here 'pressed,' and by the …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture: The ActsPaul at Corinth
'After these things Paul departed from Athens, and came to Corinth; 2. And found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, lately come from Italy, with his wife Priscilla; (because that Claudius had commanded all Jews to depart from Rome:) and came unto them. 3. And because he was of the same craft, he abode with them, and wrought: for by their occupation they were tent-makers. 4. And he reasoned in the synagogue every sabbath, and persuaded the Jews and the Greeks. 5. And when Silas and Timotheus …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture: The Acts Gallio
'And when Paul was now about to open his mouth, Gallio said unto the Jews, If it were a matter of wrong: or wicked lewdness, O ye Jews, reason would that I should bear with you: 15. But if it be a question of words and names, and of your law, look ye to it; for I will be no judge of such matters.'--ACTS xviii. 14, 15. There is something very touching in the immortality of fame which comes to the men who for a moment pass across the Gospel story, like shooting stars kindled for an instant as they …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture: The Acts The Civil Trial
In the chapter before last we saw the Sanhedrim pass a death sentence on Jesus. Gladly would they have carried it out in the Jewish fashion--by stoning. But, as was then explained, it was not in their power: their Roman masters, while conceding to the native courts the power of trying and punishing minor offences, reserved to themselves the prerogative of life and death; and a case in which a capital sentence had been passed in a Jewish court had to go before the representative of Rome in the country, …
James Stalker—The Trial and Death of Jesus Christ The Old Faiths and the New
SECOND GROUP OF EPISTLES GALATIANS. FIRST AND SECOND CORINTHIANS. ROMANS. PROBLEMS OF EARLY CHRISTIANITY The new faith in Christ made large claims for itself. It marked an advance upon Judaism and maintained that in Christ was fulfilled all the promises made by the prophets of the coming of the Jewish Messiah. It radically antagonized the heathen religions. It had a double task to win men out of Judaism and heathenism. Only by a careful study of these great doctrinal Epistles, and the …
Henry T. Sell—Bible Studies in the Life of Paul Third Missionary Journey
Scripture, Acts 18:23-21:17 [Illustration: Outline map illustrating the third missionary journey of Paul and the voyage to Italy.] …
Henry T. Sell—Bible Studies in the Life of Paul There Also is Said at what Work the Apostle Wrought. ...
22. There also is said at what work the Apostle wrought. "After these things," it says, "he departed from Athens and came to Corinth; and having found a certain Jew, by name Aquila, of Pontus by birth, lately come from Italy, and Priscilla his wife, because that Claudius had ordered all Jews to depart from Rome, he came unto them, and because he was of the same craft he abode with them, doing work: for they were tent-makers." [2549] This if they shall essay to interpret allegorically, they show what …
St. Augustine—Of the Work of Monks. Jewish Homes
It may be safely asserted, that the grand distinction, which divided all mankind into Jews and Gentiles, was not only religious, but also social. However near the cities of the heathen to those of Israel, however frequent and close the intercourse between the two parties, no one could have entered a Jewish town or village without feeling, so to speak, in quite another world. The aspect of the streets, the building and arrangement of the houses, the municipal and religious rule, the manners and customs …
Alfred Edersheim—Sketches of Jewish Social Life Flight into Egypt and Slaughter of the Bethlehem Children.
(Bethlehem and Road Thence to Egypt, b.c. 4.) ^A Matt. II. 13-18. ^a 13 Now when they were departed [The text favors the idea that the arrival and departure of the magi and the departure of Joseph for Egypt, all occurred in one night. If so, the people of Bethlehem knew nothing of these matters], behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise [this command calls for immediate departure] and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt [This land was ever the …
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel The Kingdom Conquering the World
Acts Page Paul's Epistles Page Outline for Study of Epistles Page I Thessalonians Page I Corinthians Page Romans Page Philippians Page II Timothy Page The General Epistles Page Questions on the Book of James Page Studies in I and II Peter Page I John Page THE ACTS I. Author: 1. Name. 2. Number of …
Frank Nelson Palmer—A Bird's-Eye View of the Bible Sources and Literature on St. Paul and his Work.
I. Sources. 1. The authentic sources: The Epistles of Paul, and the Acts of the Apostles 9:1-30 and 13 to 28. Of the Epistles of Paul the four most important Galatians, Romans, two Corinthians--are universally acknowledged as genuine even by the most exacting critics; the Philippians, Philemon, Colossians, and Ephesians are admitted by nearly all critics; the Pastoral Epistles, especially First Timothy, and Titus, are more or less disputed, but even they bear the stamp of Paul's genius. On the coincidences …
Philip Schaff—History of the Christian Church, Volume I Jewish views on Trade, Tradesmen, and Trades' Guilds
We read in the Mishnah (Kidd. iv. 14) as follows: "Rabbi Meir said: Let a man always teach his son a cleanly and a light trade; and let him pray to Him whose are wealth and riches; for there is no trade which has not both poverty and riches, and neither does poverty come from the trade nor yet riches, but everything according to one's deserving (merit). Rabbi Simeon, the son of Eleazer, said: Hast thou all thy life long seen a beast or a bird which has a trade? Still they are nourished, and that …
Alfred Edersheim—Sketches of Jewish Social Life King Herod's Enrollment
THE first enrollment in Syria was made in the year 8-7 BC., but a consideration of the situation in Syria and Palestine about that time will show that the enrollment in Herod's kingdom was probably delayed for some time later. Herod occupied a delicate and difficult position on the throne of Judea. On the one hand he had to comply with what was required of him by the Imperial policy; he was governing for the Romans a part of the empire, and he was bound to spread western customs and language and …
Sir William Mitchell Ramsay—Was Christ Born in Bethlehem? Luke's Attitude Towards the Roman World
The reign of Augustus, as is well known, is enveloped in the deepest obscurity. While we are unusually well informed about the immediately preceding period of Roman history, and for part of the reign of his successor, Tiberius, we possess the elaborate and accurate, though in some respects strongly prejudiced account of Tacitus, the facts of Augustus's reign have to be pieced together from scanty, incomplete and disjointed authorities. Moreover, obscure events in a remote corner of the Roman world …
Sir William Mitchell Ramsay—Was Christ Born in Bethlehem? Paul's Journeys Acts 13:1-38:31
On this third journey he was already planning to go to Rome (Acts 19:21) and wrote an epistle to the Romans announcing his coming (Rom. 1:7, 15). +The Chief City+, in which Paul spent most of his time (Acts 19:1, 8, 10), between two and three years upon this journey, was Ephesus in Asia Minor. This city situated midway between the extreme points of his former missionary journeys was a place where Ephesus has been thus described: "It had been one of the early Greek colonies, later the capital …
Henry T. Sell—Bible Studies in the Life of Paul The Supremacy of Christ
THIRD GROUP OF EPISTLES COLOSSIANS. PHILEMON. EPHESIANS. PHILIPPIANS. THE QUESTION AT ISSUE +The Supremacy of Christ.+--These Epistles mark a new stage in the writings of Paul. The great question discussed in the second group of Epistles was in regard to the terms of salvation. The question now at issue (in Colossians, Ephesians, Philippian+The Reason for the Raising of this Question+ was the development of certain false religious beliefs among which were, "asceticism, the worship of angels, …
Henry T. Sell—Bible Studies in the Life of Paul The Future of Christ's Kingdom First Group of Epistles the First and Second Epistles to the Thessalonians Introduction to the Epistles of Paul +Epistolary Writings. + --The
STUDY VII THE FUTURE OF CHRIST'S KINGDOM FIRST GROUP OF EPISTLES THE FIRST AND SECOND EPISTLES TO THE THESSALONIANS INTRODUCTION TO THE EPISTLES OF PAUL +Epistolary Writings.+--The New Testament is composed of twenty-seven books, twenty-one of which are Epistles. Of this latter number thirteen are ascribed to Paul. It is thus seen how largely the New Testament is made up of Epistles and how many of these are attributed to the Great Apostle. In the letters of men of great prominence and power of any …
Henry T. Sell—Bible Studies in the Life of Paul The Candour of the Writers of the New Testament.
I make this candour to consist in their putting down many passages, and noticing many circumstances, which no writer whatever was likely to have forged; and which no writer would have chosen to appear in his book who had been careful to present the story in the most unexceptionable form, or who had thought himself at liberty to carve and mould the particulars of that story according to his choice, or according to his judgment of the effect. A strong and well-known example of the fairness of the evangelists …
William Paley—Evidences of Christianity Moreover, if Discourse must be Bestowed Upon Any...
21. Moreover, if discourse must be bestowed upon any, and this so take up the speaker that he have not time to work with his hands, are all in the monastery able to hold discourse unto brethren which come unto them from another kind of life, whether it be to expound the divine lessons, or concerning any questions which may be put, to reason in an wholesome manner? Then since not all have the ability, why upon this pretext do all want to have nothing else to do? Although even if all were able, they …
St. Augustine—Of the Work of Monks. Here is the Sum of My Examination Before Justice Keelin, Justice Chester, Justice Blundale, Justice Beecher, Justice Snagg, Etc.
After I had lain in prison above seven weeks, the quarter-sessions were to be kept in Bedford, for the county thereof, unto which I was to be brought; and when my jailor had set me before those justices, there was a bill of indictment preferred against me. The extent thereof was as followeth: That John Bunyan, of the town of Bedford, labourer, being a person of such and such conditions, he hath (since such a time) devilishly and perniciously abstained from coming to church to hear Divine service, …
John Bunyan—Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners The Epistle to the Hebrews.
I. Commentaries on Hebrews by Chrysostom (d. 407, hermeneia, in 34 Homilies publ. after his death by an Antioch. presbyter, Constantinus); Theodoret (d. 457); Oecumenius (10th cent.); Theophylact (11th cent.); Thomas Aquinas (d. 1274); Erasmus (d. 1536, Annotationes in N. T., with his Greek Test., 1516 and often, and Paraphrasis in N. T., 1522 and often); Card. Cajetanus (Epistolae Pauli, etc., 1531); Calvin (d. 1564, Com. in omnes P. Ep. atque etiam in Ep. ad Hebraeos, 1539 and often, also Halle, …
Philip Schaff—History of the Christian Church, Volume I Links Acts 18:6 NIVActs 18:6 NLTActs 18:6 ESVActs 18:6 NASBActs 18:6 KJV
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