How does Acts 17:1 connect with Jesus' command in Matthew 28:19-20? Setting the Scene in Acts 17:1 “When they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where there was a Jewish synagogue.” • Paul and his companions are intentionally moving from city to city. • Each location is strategic—major trade routes, diverse populations, and access to synagogues for proclaiming Scripture. • The precise travel details underscore a literal, historical journey empowered by God’s direction (cf. Acts 16:6-10). Remembering the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” • “Go” demands movement; Acts 17:1 shows that movement in action. • “All nations” begins with the Jewish people but expands to Gentiles—exactly what happens in Thessalonica (Acts 17:4). • “Teaching” aligns with Paul’s synagogue reasoning (Acts 17:2-3). Connecting the Dots: Obedience in Motion 1. Geographic obedience • Matthew 28:19’s scope is global. • Acts 17:1 marks another step westward, bringing the gospel deeper into Europe. 2. Evangelistic method • Jesus said, “make disciples.” • Paul enters the synagogue to explain and prove Jesus is the Christ—disciple-making starts with clear proclamation (Acts 17:2-3). 3. Ongoing teaching • The Great Commission includes “teaching them to observe.” • Paul later writes two letters to the Thessalonians, continuing that teaching long-distance (1 Thessalonians 2:11-13; 2 Thessalonians 2:15). Key Observations • Acts 17:1 is not a random travel note; it documents tangible fulfillment of Jesus’ mandate. • Strategic city engagement mirrors Jesus’ heart for reaching population centers (Luke 24:47; Acts 1:8). • The synagogue visit shows respect for Scripture’s authority, providing the foundation for Christ-centered teaching. • The pattern—enter, reason, persuade—sets a template for disciple-making that is both relational and scriptural. Applications for Today • Mission is geographic and intentional—plan where the gospel has yet to be heard. • Disciple-making starts with Scripture-centered conversations, just as Paul opened the scrolls in Thessalonica. • Follow-up matters: letters, messages, and personal contact sustain new believers in obedience. • Trust Scripture’s power; God used one short verse of travel history to show His larger, unbroken chain of Great Commission obedience. |
    |