Acts 17:25

Nor is He served by human hands, as if He needed anything, because He Himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else.

Study Bible

Nor is He served by human hands
This phrase emphasizes the self-sufficiency and transcendence of God. The Greek word for "served" is "therapeuō," which can mean to heal or to serve. In the context of ancient religious practices, gods were often thought to require human service or offerings to sustain them. However, Paul is making a radical statement that the true God is not dependent on human actions or offerings. This aligns with the Old Testament understanding of God, as seen in Psalm 50:10-12, where God declares that He owns the world and everything in it. The phrase challenges the idolatrous practices of the time, where gods were often depicted as needing human intervention.

as if He needed anything
The concept of God needing nothing is rooted in the doctrine of divine aseity, which means that God is self-existent and independent. The Greek word "prosdeomai" implies a lack or need, which is entirely absent in God's nature. This is a profound theological truth that sets the God of the Bible apart from pagan deities. In the historical context of Acts 17, Paul is addressing the Athenians, who were familiar with gods that required temples, sacrifices, and rituals. By stating that God needs nothing, Paul is emphasizing the completeness and perfection of God, who is the source of all things.

because He Himself gives
The phrase underscores God's role as the ultimate giver. The Greek word "didōmi" means to give or grant, highlighting God's generosity and grace. This is a central theme throughout Scripture, where God is portrayed as the provider and sustainer of life. In contrast to the gods of Greek mythology, who often took from humans, the God of the Bible is depicted as one who gives abundantly. This reflects the biblical narrative of creation, where God gives life and sustenance to all living things.

all men life and breath
Here, Paul is affirming the universality of God's provision. The Greek word for "life" is "zōē," which refers to both physical and spiritual life. "Breath" is translated from "pnoē," which can also mean spirit or wind, reminiscent of the creation account in Genesis 2:7, where God breathes life into Adam. This phrase highlights the intimate involvement of God in the creation and sustenance of human life. It serves as a reminder that every breath is a gift from God, reinforcing the idea of human dependence on the divine.

and everything else
This concluding phrase encapsulates the totality of God's provision. The Greek word "pas" means all or every, indicating that there is nothing outside of God's sovereign care. This comprehensive statement serves to remind believers of God's omnipotence and omnipresence. Historically, this would have been a powerful message to the Athenians, who worshipped multiple gods for different aspects of life. Paul is declaring that the one true God is the source of all things, leaving no room for other deities. This truth is meant to inspire trust and reliance on God, who is the ultimate provider and sustainer.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
The speaker in this passage, Paul is addressing the people of Athens at the Areopagus, explaining the nature of the true God.

2. Athens
A city known for its rich history in philosophy and religion, where Paul delivers his sermon to the Athenians.

3. Areopagus
A prominent rock outcropping in Athens, serving as the meeting place for the council of elders, where Paul presents his message.

4. The Athenians
The audience of Paul's sermon, known for their interest in new ideas and philosophies.

5. The Unknown God
Paul refers to an altar with the inscription "To an Unknown God," using it as a starting point to introduce the Athenians to the one true God.

Teaching Points

God's Self-Sufficiency
God does not need anything from us. He is complete and self-sufficient, which should humble us and lead us to worship Him for who He is, not for what He needs.

God as the Source of Life
Recognize that every breath and every aspect of life is a gift from God. This awareness should lead us to gratitude and dependence on Him daily.

Human Limitations
Understanding our limitations and God's greatness should drive us to rely on His strength and provision rather than our own efforts.

Worship in Spirit and Truth
Since God is not served by human hands, our worship should be genuine, rooted in spirit and truth, rather than mere rituals or offerings.

Evangelism and Apologetics
Like Paul, we should be prepared to engage with the culture around us, using their own beliefs and practices as a starting point to introduce them to the truth of the Gospel.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's self-sufficiency change the way you approach worship and service to Him?

2. In what ways can you cultivate a daily awareness of God's provision of life and breath in your own life?

3. How can recognizing our human limitations lead to a deeper reliance on God in times of need?

4. What are some practical ways you can ensure your worship is in spirit and truth, rather than just routine or ritual?

5. How can you use elements of the culture around you to effectively share the Gospel, as Paul did in Athens?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 2:7
This verse describes God breathing life into man, connecting to the idea that God gives life and breath to all.

Psalm 50:10-12
These verses emphasize that God owns everything and does not need anything from humans, similar to Paul's message in Acts 17:25.

Isaiah 42:5
This passage speaks of God as the creator of the heavens and the earth, who gives breath to its people, reinforcing the idea of God as the life-giver.

John 5:26
Jesus speaks of the Father having life in Himself, which He has granted to the Son, aligning with the concept of God as the source of life.

Colossians 1:16-17
These verses highlight that all things were created through and for Christ, and in Him, all things hold together, supporting the idea of God's self-sufficiency and provision.