Topical Bible: Scorning and Mocking: Athenians

Bible > Topical > Scorning and Mocking

◄ Scorning and Mocking: Athenians ►

Topical Encyclopedia

In the context of the Bible, the Athenians are notably mentioned in the New Testament, particularly in the Book of Acts, where their reaction to the Apostle Paul's preaching is highlighted. The city of Athens, known for its rich history in philosophy and the arts, was a center of intellectual discourse and debate. However, this environment also fostered a culture of skepticism and scorn towards new or unfamiliar teachings, especially those that challenged established beliefs.

Biblical Account:

The primary biblical reference to the Athenians' scorn and mocking is found in Acts 17:16-34. Paul, during his second missionary journey, visits Athens and is deeply troubled by the city's idolatry. He engages with both Jews and God-fearing Gentiles in the synagogue and with others in the marketplace daily. His teachings eventually bring him to the Areopagus, a prominent place for philosophical discussion.

In Acts 17:18, some Epicurean and Stoic philosophers encounter Paul and question his teachings. The Berean Standard Bible states: "Some of the Epicurean and Stoic philosophers also began to debate with him. Some of them asked, 'What is this babbler trying to say?' Others said, 'He seems to be advocating foreign gods.' They said this because Paul was proclaiming the good news of Jesus and the resurrection."

The term "babbler" (Greek: σπερμολόγος, spermologos) is a derogatory term implying that Paul was a scavenger of ideas, picking up scraps of knowledge without true understanding. This scornful attitude reflects the Athenians' initial dismissal of Paul's message as incoherent or unworthy of serious consideration.

Reaction to the Resurrection:

Paul's discourse at the Areopagus culminates in his proclamation of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Acts 17:32 records the Athenians' reaction: "When they heard about the resurrection of the dead, some began to mock him, but others said, 'We want to hear you again on this subject.'" The mocking here is indicative of the Athenians' incredulity and disdain for the concept of bodily resurrection, which was contrary to their philosophical beliefs.

Cultural Context:

The Athenians' scorn and mocking can be understood within the broader context of Greek philosophy, which often prioritized reason and empirical evidence over faith-based claims. The resurrection, a cornerstone of Christian doctrine, was particularly challenging for the Greek mindset, which generally viewed the material world as inferior to the spiritual realm. The idea of a bodily resurrection was not only foreign but also offensive to their philosophical sensibilities.

Implications for Early Christianity:

The Athenians' reaction to Paul's message highlights the challenges faced by early Christians in spreading the Gospel in a world steeped in diverse philosophical traditions. The scorn and mocking of the Athenians serve as a reminder of the resistance and ridicule that believers might encounter when presenting the truths of Christianity to a skeptical audience.

Despite the mockery, some Athenians were intrigued and expressed a desire to hear more, indicating that even in the face of scorn, the message of the Gospel could penetrate hearts and minds. Acts 17:34 notes that "some men joined him and believed, among them Dionysius the Areopagite, a member of the Areopagus, and a woman named Damaris, and others with them." This demonstrates that while scorn and mocking were prevalent, they did not entirely hinder the spread of the Christian faith.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Acts 17:32
And when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked: and others said, We will hear you again of this matter.
Torrey's Topical Textbook