Acts 13:41

Look, you scoffers, wonder and perish! For I am doing a work in your days that you would never believe, even if someone told you.'"

Study Bible

Look, you scoffers
The word "scoffers" is translated from the Greek word "kataphronētai," which refers to those who mock or disdainfully reject something. In the context of Acts 13, Paul is addressing the Jewish audience in the synagogue at Pisidian Antioch, quoting from Habakkuk 1:5. Historically, scoffers were those who rejected the prophets and the message of God. This phrase serves as a warning to those who dismiss the work of God, urging them to pay attention and reconsider their stance.

wonder and perish
The Greek word for "wonder" is "thaumazō," which implies being amazed or astonished. The term "perish" comes from "aphanizō," meaning to vanish or be destroyed. This phrase highlights the dual response to God's work: it is both awe-inspiring and, for those who reject it, ultimately leads to destruction. The historical context here is crucial, as Paul is warning his listeners of the consequences of disbelief, echoing the fate of those who ignored prophetic warnings in the past.

for I am doing a work in your days
This phrase emphasizes the immediacy and relevance of God's actions. The "work" refers to the unfolding plan of salvation through Jesus Christ, which was occurring in the very time of Paul's audience. The historical context is the early Christian church's expansion and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. The phrase underscores God's active involvement in human history, inviting the audience to recognize and participate in His divine plan.

that you would never believe
The Greek word "pisteuō" means to have faith or trust. This phrase indicates the incredulity of the people towards God's work, despite its unfolding before their eyes. It reflects a common biblical theme where God's actions surpass human understanding and expectation. Historically, this disbelief was evident in the rejection of Jesus as the Messiah by many of His contemporaries, despite the signs and wonders He performed.

even if someone told you
This phrase underscores the stubbornness and hardness of heart that can prevent people from accepting the truth, even when it is clearly presented to them. It reflects the prophetic tradition where messengers of God were often ignored or persecuted. In the context of Acts, Paul is highlighting the resistance of many Jews to the Gospel message, despite the testimony of the apostles and the fulfillment of prophecy in Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul and Barnabas
Key figures in the early Christian church, they were on their first missionary journey, spreading the Gospel to the Gentiles.

2. Antioch in Pisidia
A city in modern-day Turkey where Paul and Barnabas preached in the synagogue, addressing both Jews and God-fearing Gentiles.

3. The Synagogue
The setting where Paul delivered his message, quoting from the Hebrew Scriptures to connect with his Jewish audience.

4. The Prophets
Specifically, the prophet Habakkuk, whose words Paul quotes to warn the listeners of disbelief and its consequences.

5. The Audience
Composed of Jews and Gentile converts to Judaism, who were familiar with the Hebrew Scriptures and the prophecies concerning the Messiah.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Disbelief
Just as in Habakkuk's time, disbelief in God's work leads to spiritual peril. We must remain open to God's actions in our lives.

Recognizing God's Work
God often works in unexpected ways. We should be vigilant and discerning to recognize His hand in our circumstances.

The Role of Prophecy
Understanding Old Testament prophecies helps us see the continuity of God's plan and the fulfillment in Christ.

The Importance of Faith
Faith is essential to understanding and participating in God's work. Without faith, we risk missing out on His blessings.

Witnessing to Others
Like Paul, we should use Scripture to connect with others, helping them see the relevance of God's Word in their lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the context of Habakkuk 1:5 enhance our understanding of Acts 13:41?

2. In what ways can we be vigilant to recognize God's work in our lives today?

3. How can we guard against the disbelief that Paul warns about in this passage?

4. What role does prophecy play in strengthening our faith and understanding of God's plan?

5. How can we effectively use Scripture to witness to others, as Paul did in Antioch?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Habakkuk 1:5
Paul quotes this verse, originally a warning to Judah about the impending Babylonian invasion, to illustrate the disbelief and judgment that can occur when God's work is not recognized.

Isaiah 29:14
This verse speaks of God performing a marvelous work that will confound the wisdom of the wise, similar to the theme of disbelief in Acts 13:41.

John 12:37-38
Despite Jesus performing many signs, people still did not believe, fulfilling Isaiah's prophecy about disbelief.

Romans 1:16-17
Paul emphasizes the power of the Gospel for salvation to everyone who believes, contrasting with the disbelief mentioned in Acts 13:41.