How does Acts 21:37 demonstrate Paul's ability to connect with diverse audiences? Text of Acts 21:37 “As they were about to take Paul into the barracks, he asked the commander, ‘May I say something to you?’ ‘Do you speak Greek?’ he replied.” What We See in This Moment • Paul initiates respectful dialogue—“May I say something to you?” • He addresses a Roman military officer in fluent Greek, the common language of the eastern empire. • The surprised question, “Do you speak Greek?” highlights that Paul’s linguistic skill was unexpected and impressive, instantly opening the door to further conversation. Paul’s Readiness to Adapt • Multilingual background—raised in Tarsus, educated in Jerusalem (Acts 22:3), Paul could move effortlessly between Greek, Aramaic/Hebrew (Acts 21:40), and likely Latin legal terms when necessary (Acts 25:10–11). • Roman citizenship (Acts 22:25-28) granted him credibility with Gentile authorities while his Pharisaic training connected him to devout Jews. • His approach models 1 Corinthians 9:19-23—“I have become all things to all men, so that by all possible means I might save some”. Parallel Scenes Showing the Same Skill • Acts 17:22-31—on Mars Hill Paul quotes Greek poets to reach philosophers. • Acts 13:16-41—addresses Jewish synagogue attendees through Scripture and covenant history. • Acts 22:1-2—switches to Hebrew to calm an angry crowd in Jerusalem. • Acts 26:1-29—uses courtroom rhetoric before Agrippa, weaving personal testimony with prophetic fulfillment. Why His Adaptability Mattered • It removed barriers: language and cultural familiarity kept listeners engaged long enough to hear the gospel. • It modeled Christ-like humility—Paul served varied audiences rather than demanding they adjust to him (Philippians 2:5-8). • It displayed the literal truth of Acts 9:15—Paul was God’s “chosen instrument” to bear His name “before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel”. Takeaways for Believers Today • Know the Scriptures thoroughly; Paul’s confidence came from the Word’s reliability and authority. • Cultivate empathy and practical skills (like language or cultural insight) to meet people where they are. • Speak with respect—Paul’s courteous request, “May I say something to you?” opened a hostile situation to gospel opportunity. • Remember the goal: adaptation serves proclamation, not personal popularity; the unchanging message of Christ drives every flexible method. |
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