nor is he served by human hands, as though he needed anything, since he himself gives to all mankind life and breath and everything.
The faithful never truly placed God's worship in ceremonies themselves, but used them as rudiments to exercise themselves toward spiritual worship, always keeping the eye on faith and a pure conscience. The pagans, by contrast, thought they had fulfilled godliness excellently by decking out their idols with pomp and incense, not understanding that God cares nothing for external show.
AI summary
Paul's task here differs entirely from his preaching to Jews: they needed Christ proved by prophecy; these refined idolaters needed first to know there is one true Creator and God alone worthy of worship. He had to lay the foundation before he could build.
AI summary
Commenting on Acts 17:22-31
When we worship, we give God nothing that adds to Him; He is El Shaddai, all sufficient. Since He gives life and breath and all things to every creature that lives, He cannot lack anything we could offer, and our worship alters nothing in His essential glory and happiness.
AI summary