Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars’ hill, and said, Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious.
Paul divides his argument into five parts: first, he charges Athens with superstition, worshipping by mere chance, without discernment; second, he sets forth who God truly is and how He should be rightly served; third, he exposes human blindness, that men made to know their Creator wander in darkness; fourth, he shows how absurd it is to figure God by statues or paintings, when the human mind itself is His true image; fifth, he descends to Christ and resurrection. These four points must be handled generally before the gospel can be received.
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
Paul stood among the Areopagites and the philosophers assembled there, addressing them as men of Athens, a respectful opening that acknowledges their own distinction. They exceeded all other peoples in gods, altars, festivals, and diligence in worship. By calling them extremely religious, he engages their attention and grants them the reputation they prize, which disposes them to listen.
AI summary