Acts 17:20 – “You are bringing some strange ideas to our ears, and we would like to know what they mean.”

Extended Explanation

This verse captures the reaction of the Athenians to Paul’s message about Jesus and the resurrection. He had been speaking with the philosophers of Athens, particularly the Epicureans and Stoics, and they were intrigued by his words, but also confused.

The phrase “strange ideas” suggests that Paul’s teaching was completely new to them. The Greeks were familiar with many gods and religious beliefs, but the idea that one true God came to earth in the form of Jesus, died, and then rose again was unheard of. To them, resurrection (Greek: anastasis) was not only strange but also absurd, since Greek thought often viewed the physical body as something to escape, not something that would be restored.

Even though they were skeptical, their curiosity was sparked. They wanted to hear more. This moment shows how people who are unfamiliar with the gospel may at first find it strange, but their curiosity can open the door to deeper discussion.

Historical Context

Athens was known as a center of learning, philosophy, and religious diversity. The city was filled with temples, altars, and idols to various gods. The people prided themselves on being open to new ideas, especially in the realm of philosophy and religion.

However, while they enjoyed discussing new concepts, they often treated them as intellectual exercises rather than life-changing truths. The Greeks loved debates and theories, but they struggled with the idea of one absolute truth. This is why Paul’s message about Jesus stood out—it was not just another philosophy; it was a declaration of a real event in history, the resurrection of Christ.

Theological Implications

1. The Gospel Will Seem Strange to Those Who Do Not Know It. The Athenians thought Paul’s teaching was foreign because they had no background in biblical truth. Even today, many people see Christianity as strange because they do not understand it.
2. God Can Use Curiosity to Draw People to Him. Even though the Athenians were not immediately convinced, they wanted to hear more. This shows that God can work through people’s questions and intrigue to lead them to the truth.
3. The Resurrection is Central to the Gospel. The fact that the Athenians reacted so strongly to the resurrection shows how central it is to the Christian faith. Without it, Christianity has no power (1 Corinthians 15:17).

Literary Analysis

This verse is part of Luke’s careful storytelling in Acts. He shows how Paul’s message was both intriguing and challenging to the Greek audience. The words “strange ideas” highlight the contrast between human wisdom and divine revelation. The phrase “we would like to know what they mean” suggests an openness to learning, even if it is mixed with skepticism.

Luke often portrays people responding to the gospel in different ways—some believe immediately, some reject it outright, and some, like these Athenians, are curious but unsure. This reflects real-life evangelism: not everyone accepts the gospel right away, but seeds of interest can be planted.

Biblical Cross-References

• 1 Corinthians 1:18 – “For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” Like the Athenians, many people see the gospel as strange or foolish at first.
• 1 Peter 3:15 – “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” Paul was ready to explain the gospel, just as we should be.
• Isaiah 55:8-9 – “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” The Athenians thought Paul’s message was strange because God’s ways are beyond human understanding.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

Many people today still find Christianity strange. They may have heard bits and pieces about Jesus, but they do not fully understand what it means to follow Him. Like Paul, we should not be discouraged when people are skeptical. Instead, we should patiently explain the truth and trust that God will open their hearts.

This verse also reminds us that curiosity is a powerful tool in evangelism. When people ask questions, we should take those opportunities to share our faith. Sometimes, people just need to hear more before they can fully grasp the truth of the gospel.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God does not force people to believe in Him—He invites them to seek the truth. The fact that the Athenians were willing to listen shows that God was giving them an opportunity to hear the gospel. This is an example of God’s patience and love, as He desires all people to come to know Him (1 Timothy 2:4).

Even though the Athenians were idol worshipers, God did not ignore them. Instead, He sent Paul to share the message of Jesus with them. This shows that God’s love extends to all people, no matter how far they are from Him.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus is the ultimate answer to the Athenians’ questions. They were searching for meaning and truth, but they were looking in the wrong places. Paul’s message pointed them to Jesus, who is:

• The Truth – John 14:6: “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
• The Wisdom of God – 1 Corinthians 1:24: “But to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.”
• The Resurrected Lord – Acts 17:31: Later in this chapter, Paul explains that God has proven Jesus’ authority by raising Him from the dead.

The Athenians were open to learning about new gods, but Paul was introducing them to the one true God—Jesus Christ.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Why do you think the Athenians found Paul’s message strange?
2. Have you ever shared your faith with someone who was curious but skeptical? How did you respond?
3. How does this verse challenge the way you think about evangelism?
4. In what ways does modern culture resemble the intellectual climate of Athens?
5. What are some ways you can be prepared to explain your faith when people ask questions?