What is the meaning of Acts 14:15? Men, why are you doing this? “Men, why are you doing this?” (Acts 14:15) • Paul and Barnabas confront the crowd in Lystra that is ready to offer sacrifices to them as gods. • The question is an urgent call to examine motives and actions—similar to Peter’s “Why do you marvel at this?” in Acts 3:12 when people tried to glorify men instead of God. • Scripture consistently redirects worship away from any creature (Revelation 19:10; 22:8-9). God alone is worthy. We too are only men, human like you “We too are only men, human like you.” (Acts 14:15) • Paul and Barnabas reject exaltation, affirming their shared humanity with the crowd—echoing the humility of John the Baptist in John 3:27-30. • Comparing Elijah’s likeness to us in James 5:17 reminds believers that even miracle workers remain human vessels. • The message underscores that no apostle or leader is to be deified; glory belongs solely to God (Isaiah 42:8). We are bringing you good news “We are bringing you good news” (Acts 14:15) • The “good news” (euangelion) is the gospel of Jesus Christ—His death, burial, and resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:1-4). • The apostles’ miracles serve to validate that gospel (Hebrews 2:3-4), not to elevate themselves. • True evangelism always points to Christ, never to the messenger (2 Corinthians 4:5). That you should turn from these worthless things “...that you should turn from these worthless things...” (Acts 14:15) • “Worthless things” refers to idols—objects of vain worship (Jeremiah 10:3-5). • Conversion involves repentance: turning away from idols toward God (1 Thessalonians 1:9). • Idolatry remains a heart issue today—anything we prize above God (Colossians 3:5). • The call to turn is both immediate and decisive (2 Corinthians 6:2). To the living God “...to the living God...” (Acts 14:15) • Unlike lifeless idols, the God of Scripture is alive and active (Jeremiah 10:10). • He hears, speaks, and saves (Psalm 115:3-7; Hebrews 7:25). • Embracing the “living God” brings relationship, not ritual (John 17:3). Who made heaven and earth and sea and everything in them “...who made heaven and earth and sea and everything in them.” (Acts 14:15) • Creation testifies to God’s eternal power and divine nature (Romans 1:20; Psalm 19:1). • The apostles ground their message in Genesis 1:1, affirming God as Creator of all realms. • By highlighting His universal authorship, they show that He is not a local deity but sovereign over every nation (Isaiah 45:18). summary Acts 14:15 reveals the apostles’ urgent plea: stop worshiping men and idols; recognize shared humanity; receive the gospel; repent of worthless substitutes; embrace the living Creator God. The verse confronts idolatry, exalts God alone, and invites every listener—then and now—to turn wholeheartedly to the One who made all things and offers life through Jesus Christ. |
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