Acts 28:27

For this people's heart has grown callous; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts, and turn, and I would heal them.'

Study Bible

For this people's heart
The phrase "this people's heart" refers to the collective spiritual and moral center of the Jewish people to whom Paul is speaking. In the Greek, "heart" (καρδία, kardia) often symbolizes the seat of emotions, thoughts, and intentions. Biblically, the heart is the core of one's being, influencing actions and decisions. Historically, the Jewish people had a rich tradition of seeking God with all their heart, as seen in Deuteronomy 6:5. However, here, Paul laments their spiritual insensitivity.

has grown callous
The Greek word for "callous" (παχύνω, pachynō) implies becoming thick or dull. This metaphor suggests a hardening or insensitivity to spiritual truths. Archaeologically, this reflects a period of resistance to the Gospel message, as many Jews of the time struggled to accept Jesus as the Messiah. The callousness is not just a physical state but a spiritual condition that prevents them from perceiving God's truth.

they hardly hear with their ears
This phrase indicates a diminished capacity to listen and understand. The Greek word for "hear" (ἀκούω, akouō) is more than just auditory; it involves comprehension and acceptance. Historically, the Jewish leaders often heard Jesus' teachings but failed to grasp their significance, as seen in their interactions with Him throughout the Gospels.

and they have closed their eyes
Closing one's eyes is a deliberate act of ignoring or rejecting what is in front of them. The Greek verb (κλείω, kleiō) suggests an intentional shutting out of light and truth. Scripturally, this echoes the prophetic warnings in Isaiah, where the people are described as having eyes but not seeing (Isaiah 6:10). It signifies a willful blindness to the revelation of God through Christ.

Otherwise they might see with their eyes
This phrase presents a conditional possibility. The Greek word for "see" (βλέπω, blepō) implies not just physical sight but spiritual insight. If the people were to open their eyes, they would perceive the truth of the Gospel. This reflects the hope that remains for those who choose to turn towards God.

hear with their ears
Reiterating the earlier point, this phrase emphasizes the potential for understanding and acceptance. The act of hearing in a biblical sense involves obedience and response. Historically, those who truly heard Jesus' message were transformed, as seen in the lives of the apostles and early believers.

understand with their hearts
Understanding (συνίημι, syniēmi) in the Greek context involves putting together the pieces of information to form a coherent whole. The heart, as mentioned earlier, is the center of this understanding. This phrase suggests a deep, internal comprehension that leads to transformation. Scripturally, it aligns with the wisdom literature that values understanding as a gift from God (Proverbs 2:2).

and turn
The Greek word for "turn" (ἐπιστρέφω, epistrephō) means to return or convert. It signifies repentance, a turning away from sin and towards God. This is a central theme in the New Testament, where turning to God results in salvation and healing. Historically, this call to repentance was a cornerstone of both John the Baptist's and Jesus' ministries.

and I would heal them
The promise of healing (ἰάομαι, iaomai) is both physical and spiritual. In the biblical context, healing often accompanies forgiveness and restoration. This reflects God's desire to restore His people to wholeness. Theologically, it underscores the redemptive work of Christ, who offers healing to all who turn to Him in faith.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
The primary speaker in Acts 28, Paul is addressing the Jewish leaders in Rome, explaining why he has come to them and sharing the message of the Gospel.

2. Jewish Leaders in Rome
These are the individuals Paul is speaking to in this passage. They represent the Jewish community in Rome, who are curious about Paul's teachings and the sect of Christianity.

3. Rome
The setting of this chapter, Rome is the center of the Roman Empire and a significant location for the spread of Christianity. Paul is under house arrest here, awaiting trial.

4. Isaiah the Prophet
The quote in Acts 28:27 is a reference to Isaiah 6:9-10, where God commissions Isaiah to speak to a people who will not understand or perceive His message.

5. The Holy Spirit
The divine inspiration behind Paul's message, guiding him to use the words of Isaiah to address the spiritual condition of his audience.

Teaching Points

Spiritual Sensitivity
We must guard against becoming spiritually callous. Regular self-examination and repentance keep our hearts sensitive to God's voice.

The Role of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit is essential in opening our eyes and ears to understand God's truth. We should pray for His guidance and illumination.

The Danger of Rejection
Persistent rejection of God's message can lead to a hardened heart. We should be quick to respond to God's call and not delay obedience.

The Promise of Healing
God promises healing and restoration to those who turn to Him. This is a message of hope and encouragement for all who seek Him.

The Importance of Scripture
Understanding and applying Scripture is crucial for spiritual growth. We should diligently study the Bible and seek to apply its truths in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the context of Acts 28:27 help us understand the spiritual condition of the Jewish leaders in Rome?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our hearts do not become callous to God's message today?

3. How does the Holy Spirit help us to "see with our eyes" and "hear with our ears" spiritually? Can you think of a personal experience where this was evident?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to avoid the danger of rejecting God's message in our daily lives?

5. How can the promise of healing in Acts 28:27 encourage us in our personal walk with God and in our interactions with others who may be spiritually blind or deaf?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 6:9-10
This is the original prophecy that Paul quotes, highlighting the spiritual blindness and deafness of the people.

Matthew 13:14-15
Jesus also quotes this passage from Isaiah, explaining why He speaks in parables to the people who are unwilling to see and hear the truth.

John 12:40
This verse reiterates the theme of spiritual blindness and hardening of hearts, emphasizing the need for divine intervention for understanding and healing.

Hebrews 3:7-8
This passage warns believers not to harden their hearts as the Israelites did, urging them to remain open to God's voice.