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Commentary Index | Return to PrayerRequest.comRobertson Word Pictures - Acts 17:32 - 17:32
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This Chapter Verse Commentaries:
The resurrection of the dead (anastasin nekrōn). Rather, “a resurrection of dead men.” No article with either word. The Greeks believed that the souls of men lived on, but they had no conception of resurrection of the body. They had listened with respect till Paul spoke of the actual resurrection of Jesus from the dead as a fact, when they did not care to hear more.
Some mocked (hoi men echleuazon). Imperfect active of chleuazō, a common verb (from chleuē, jesting, mockery). Only here in the N.T. though late MSS. have it in Act 2:13 (best MSS. diachleuazō). Probably inchoative here, began to mock. In contempt at Paul’s statement they declined to listen further to “this babbler” (Act 17:18) who had now lost what he had gained with this group of hearers (probably the light and flippant Epicureans).
But others (hoi de). A more polite group like those who had invited him to speak (Act 17:19). They were unconvinced, but had better manners and so were in favour of an adjournment. This was done, though it is not clear whether it was a serious postponement or a courteous refusal to hear Paul further (probably this). It was a virtual dismissal of the matter. “ It is a sad story--the noblest of ancient cities and the noblest man of history--and he never cared to look on it again” (Furneaux).