Acts 17:16

Now while Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was stirred in him, when he saw the city wholly given to idolatry.

Study Helps

Interpretation

Athens was then famed for polite learning, philosophy, and the fine arts; but none are more childish and superstitious, more impious, or more credulous, than some persons, deemed eminent for learning and ability. It was wholly given to idolatry.

Read with

This thought runs through Acts 17:16-20.

Acts 17:16 Acts 17:17 Acts 17:18 Acts 17:19 Acts 17:20

Glossary

City People: The earliest mention of city-building is that of Enoch, which was built by Cain ( Gen. 4:17 ). After the confusion of tongues, the descendants of Nimrod founded several cities (10:10-12).
Athens Place: Biblical settlement. Modern identification: Athens.