Acts 17:18

Some 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.

Study Bible

Some Epicurean and Stoic philosophers
The Epicureans and Stoics were two prominent philosophical schools in ancient Greece. The Epicureans, founded by Epicurus, believed in seeking pleasure and avoiding pain as the highest good, often emphasizing materialism and the absence of divine intervention in the world. The Stoics, founded by Zeno of Citium, taught the development of self-control and fortitude as a means to overcome destructive emotions, emphasizing rationality and the natural order. The presence of these philosophers highlights the diverse intellectual environment of Athens, a city known for its rich tradition of philosophical inquiry. Paul's engagement with them demonstrates the early Christian mission's willingness to engage with contemporary thought and culture.

also began to debate with him
The Greek word used here for "debate" is "συμβάλλω" (symballō), which can mean to converse, discuss, or dispute. This indicates an active engagement and exchange of ideas, rather than a passive reception of Paul's message. The use of this word suggests that Paul was not merely preaching but was also open to dialogue, reflecting the early Christian approach of reasoned discourse in spreading the Gospel.

Some of them asked, 'What is this babbler trying to say?'
The term "babbler" is translated from the Greek word "σπερμολόγος" (spermologos), which literally means "seed picker." It was a derogatory term used to describe someone who picks up scraps of knowledge and repeats them without understanding, akin to a bird picking up seeds. This reflects the philosophers' initial dismissive attitude towards Paul, perceiving him as someone who lacks depth or originality. This skepticism is a common reaction to new ideas, especially those that challenge established beliefs.

Others said, 'He seems to be advocating foreign gods.'
The accusation of advocating "foreign gods" is significant in the context of Athens, a city with a pantheon of deities and a rich tradition of religious practice. The introduction of new deities was often met with suspicion, as it could disrupt the social and religious order. This charge echoes the historical context of Socrates, who was similarly accused of introducing new gods. Paul's message of Jesus and the resurrection was perceived as a novel and potentially subversive teaching.

They said this because Paul was proclaiming the good news of Jesus and the resurrection
The "good news" or "Gospel" that Paul was proclaiming centers on the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The Greek word for "resurrection" is "ἀνάστασις" (anastasis), which signifies a rising up or standing again. This concept was foreign to Greek philosophical thought, which often viewed the material world as inferior to the spiritual. The resurrection challenged both Epicurean materialism and Stoic rationalism, presenting a transformative hope that transcends human understanding. Paul's message was revolutionary, offering a new perspective on life, death, and the divine, rooted in the historical reality of Jesus' resurrection.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
The apostle who is preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ and the resurrection in Athens.

2. Epicurean Philosophers
Followers of Epicurus, who believed in seeking pleasure and avoiding pain as the primary goals of life, often denying the existence of an afterlife.

3. Stoic Philosophers
Followers of Stoicism, a philosophy that emphasized rationality and self-control, often pantheistic in their view of God.

4. Athens
A city known for its rich history in philosophy and learning, where Paul engages with the local thinkers.

5. Debate
The event where Paul is questioned and challenged by the philosophers regarding his teachings about Jesus and the resurrection.

Teaching Points

Engage with Culture Thoughtfully
Paul’s approach in Athens shows the importance of understanding and engaging with the cultural and philosophical context of those we are trying to reach.

Proclaim the Core of the Gospel
Despite the philosophical differences, Paul remains focused on the core message of Jesus and the resurrection, which should be central in our witness.

Expect Varied Reactions
Just as Paul encountered different responses, we should be prepared for a range of reactions when sharing the gospel.

Use Wisdom in Dialogue
Paul’s interaction with the philosophers demonstrates the need for wisdom and discernment in how we present the truth of the gospel.

Stand Firm in Faith
Despite being called a "babbler," Paul stands firm in his faith, reminding us to remain steadfast in our beliefs even when faced with skepticism.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Paul’s interaction with the Epicurean and Stoic philosophers challenge us to engage with contemporary worldviews?

2. In what ways can we ensure that the core message of Jesus and the resurrection remains central in our conversations with others?

3. How can we prepare ourselves to respond to skepticism or ridicule when sharing our faith, as Paul did in Athens?

4. What are some modern philosophies or ideologies that might parallel the Epicurean and Stoic beliefs, and how can we address them with the gospel?

5. How does understanding the cultural and philosophical context of those around us enhance our ability to share the gospel effectively?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Corinthians 1:23
Paul speaks of Christ crucified being a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, similar to the reaction he receives in Athens.

Colossians 2:8
Paul warns against being taken captive by hollow and deceptive philosophy, which is relevant to his encounter with the philosophers in Athens.

Acts 17:32
Later in the chapter, the reaction to the resurrection message is mixed, showing the varied responses to the gospel.

Romans 1:16
Paul declares he is not ashamed of the gospel, which is evident in his bold proclamation in Athens.

1 Peter 3:15
Encourages believers to always be prepared to give an answer, as Paul does in this passage.