Acts 28:24 – “Some were convinced by what he said, but others would not believe.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse describes the outcome of Paul’s meeting with the Jewish leaders in Rome. After spending an entire day explaining the gospel—using the Law of Moses and the Prophets to show how Jesus fulfilled God’s promises—there were mixed reactions.
Some of the Jewish leaders were convinced, meaning they believed what Paul was saying and accepted Jesus as the Messiah. But others “would not believe,” meaning they rejected the message, even in the face of clear biblical evidence.
This verse highlights a common response to the gospel: some people receive it, while others reject it. This has always been the case, from Jesus’ own ministry to the early church and even today.
Historical Context
Paul was under house arrest in Rome, awaiting trial before Caesar. Despite being a prisoner, he used every opportunity to share the gospel, first with the Jewish leaders (Acts 28:23).
Judaism in the first century was divided over how to respond to Jesus. Some Jews believed He was the Messiah, while others rejected Him, often because they expected a political leader who would overthrow Roman rule.
This division was nothing new. Even during Jesus’ ministry, some believed in Him, while others opposed Him (John 7:12, John 10:19-21). The same pattern continued throughout Paul’s missionary journeys (Acts 13:48-50, Acts 17:4-5).
The response in Rome mirrored what had happened elsewhere: some Jewish people embraced the truth, but others refused to accept it.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches an important truth about faith: belief in Jesus is not just about hearing the right information—it is a matter of the heart.
Paul presented clear evidence from Scripture, yet some still “would not believe.” This shows that rejection of the gospel is often not due to a lack of understanding but a hardened heart.
It also reveals the reality of free will. God offers salvation, but He does not force anyone to believe. Some accept the truth, while others turn away from it.
Additionally, this verse highlights that the gospel always divides people into two groups—those who believe and those who reject it. Jesus Himself said, “Whoever is not with me is against me” (Luke 11:23). There is no neutral ground when it comes to following Christ.
Literary Analysis
The verse is structured in two contrasting parts:
- “Some were convinced by what he said” – This phrase shows a positive response to Paul’s message.
- “But others would not believe” – The wording here is strong, showing a deliberate choice to reject the gospel.
The phrase “would not believe” is key. It does not say they could not believe, but that they would not believe. This implies an act of the will—a conscious decision to reject the truth, despite the evidence.
This pattern of mixed responses is a common theme in the book of Acts. The gospel always divides people, and the same is true today.
Biblical Cross-References
- Luke 8:12-15 – Jesus’ parable of the sower describes different responses to the Word of God.
- John 3:19-20 – People reject the light of Christ because they love darkness.
- Acts 13:48-50 – Some Gentiles accept Paul’s message, while others stir up opposition.
- 2 Corinthians 4:3-4 – The gospel is veiled to those who are perishing, blinded by the god of this world.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse is a reminder that not everyone will accept the gospel. No matter how well we explain it, some people will choose to reject it.
As Christians, we should not be discouraged when people refuse to believe. Even Paul, one of the greatest evangelists, saw mixed results. Our job is to faithfully share the truth—God is responsible for the outcome.
This verse also encourages perseverance. Just because some reject the gospel does not mean we should stop sharing it. There will always be those who are willing to listen and believe.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident in the fact that He gives everyone the opportunity to believe. Paul presented the truth to the Jewish leaders, and some accepted it.
However, God’s love also respects free will. He does not force anyone to believe but allows each person to choose.
At the same time, God continues to call people to repentance, even when they reject Him. Jesus lamented over Jerusalem, wishing the people would turn to Him (Matthew 23:37). This shows God’s heart—He desires that all would be saved, but He does not override their choices.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus experienced the same reaction during His ministry. Some people believed in Him, while others rejected Him, even after witnessing miracles.
- John 6:66-69 – Many of Jesus’ followers abandoned Him, but Peter and the disciples stayed, believing He had the words of eternal life.
- Matthew 10:34-36 – Jesus said that His message would divide people, even within families.
- John 12:37 – Despite all the signs Jesus performed, some still did not believe in Him.
Paul’s experience in Rome reflects Jesus’ own ministry—some accepted the message of salvation, while others hardened their hearts against it.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Why do you think some people reject the gospel, even when presented with clear evidence?
- Have you ever shared your faith and faced mixed reactions? How did that affect you?
- How can this verse encourage you when you feel discouraged about sharing the gospel?
- What are some ways you can lovingly and patiently continue to witness to those who reject Jesus?
- How does this passage help you understand the importance of free will in faith?
This verse is a powerful reminder that the gospel will always divide people. But as followers of Jesus, we are called to keep sharing the truth, trusting that God is at work in the hearts of those who hear it.