Acts 17:2

As was his custom, Paul went into the synagogue, and on three Sabbaths he reasoned with them from the Scriptures,

Study Bible

As was his custom
This phrase indicates a habitual practice of the Apostle Paul. The Greek word "ethos" is used here, which refers to a custom or habit. Paul's consistent approach to ministry reflects his dedication and strategic method of spreading the Gospel. His custom of engaging with the Jewish community in synagogues shows his respect for Jewish traditions and his desire to connect the message of Christ with the Jewish Scriptures. This practice underscores the importance of consistency and intentionality in ministry efforts.

Paul went into the synagogue
The synagogue was the center of Jewish religious life and a place where the Scriptures were read and discussed. By entering the synagogue, Paul positioned himself in a place where he could engage with those who were knowledgeable about the Scriptures. This strategic choice highlights Paul's mission strategy to first reach out to the Jews, as they were the custodians of the Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah. It also reflects the early Christian practice of using existing religious structures to introduce the message of Jesus.

and on three Sabbaths
The mention of "three Sabbaths" indicates a period of sustained teaching and dialogue. The Sabbath, being the day of rest and worship, provided an opportunity for Paul to reach a gathered audience. The number three may symbolize completeness or a sufficient period to establish a foundation for the message he was delivering. This timeframe suggests that Paul was thorough and patient in his approach, allowing for questions and discussions to unfold over multiple sessions.

he reasoned with them
The Greek word "dielegeto" is used here, which means to discuss or argue. This implies a form of dialogue rather than a one-sided proclamation. Paul's method was not merely to preach but to engage in reasoned discourse, appealing to the intellect and understanding of his listeners. This approach is significant as it shows the importance of engaging the mind in matters of faith, encouraging believers to understand and articulate their beliefs.

from the Scriptures
The Scriptures referred to here are the Hebrew Scriptures, what Christians call the Old Testament. Paul used these texts to demonstrate that Jesus was the promised Messiah. This highlights the continuity between the Old and New Testaments and the fulfillment of prophecy in the person of Jesus Christ. It underscores the importance of grounding Christian teaching in the authority of Scripture, showing that the message of Jesus is rooted in God's revealed word.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
A key figure in the early Christian church, formerly known as Saul of Tarsus. He was a Pharisee who converted to Christianity and became a missionary to the Gentiles.

2. Synagogue
A Jewish place of worship and community gathering. It was customary for Paul to begin his ministry in a new city by visiting the local synagogue.

3. Thessalonica
A major city in Macedonia where Paul preached. It was a significant location for trade and culture, making it a strategic place for spreading the Gospel.

4. Sabbath Days
The Jewish day of rest and worship, observed from Friday evening to Saturday evening. Paul used these days to engage with the Jewish community.

5. Scriptures
Refers to the Hebrew Scriptures (Old Testament), which Paul used to explain and prove the message of Jesus Christ.

Teaching Points

Customary Engagement
Paul’s approach was consistent and intentional. He had a strategy for sharing the Gospel, starting with those who had a foundational understanding of the Scriptures.

Reasoning from the Scriptures
Paul used the Scriptures to reason and engage in dialogue, showing the importance of grounding our faith discussions in the Bible.

Persistence in Ministry
Paul’s commitment over three Sabbaths demonstrates perseverance. We should be persistent in our efforts to share the Gospel, even when immediate results are not visible.

Cultural Contextualization
Paul’s method of starting in the synagogue shows the importance of understanding and respecting cultural contexts when sharing the Gospel.

Scriptural Foundation
The use of the Scriptures as the basis for reasoning highlights the importance of knowing and understanding the Bible to effectively communicate our faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Paul’s method of starting in the synagogue inform our approach to sharing the Gospel in our own communities?

2. What can we learn from Paul’s use of the Scriptures in reasoning with others about the faith?

3. In what ways can we be persistent in our ministry efforts, even when we face challenges or slow progress?

4. How can understanding the cultural context of those we are trying to reach enhance our effectiveness in sharing the Gospel?

5. Reflect on a time when you used Scripture to explain your faith to someone. What was the outcome, and what did you learn from the experience?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 9
Describes Paul's conversion and his initial preaching efforts, highlighting his transformation and dedication to spreading the Gospel.

Luke 4
Jesus also taught in synagogues, showing a parallel in the method of engaging with the Jewish community.

Romans 1
Paul emphasizes the importance of the Gospel being for both Jews and Gentiles, reflecting his approach in Acts 17.