Topical Bible: Synagogues: Strangers Were Invited to Address the Congregation In

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In the context of ancient Jewish worship and community life, synagogues served as central places for prayer, teaching, and communal gatherings. These institutions were not only pivotal for the Jewish people but also played a significant role in the spread of early Christianity. One notable aspect of synagogue practice was the openness to allowing strangers, particularly those who were learned or had a message, to address the congregation.

The practice of inviting strangers to speak is well-documented in the New Testament, particularly in the Acts of the Apostles. This custom reflects the Jewish tradition of hospitality and the value placed on the teaching and interpretation of the Scriptures. It also underscores the synagogues' role as centers of learning and discussion.

In Acts 13:14-15 , we find an example of this practice: "From Perga, they went on to Pisidian Antioch. On the Sabbath, they entered the synagogue and sat down. After the reading from the Law and the Prophets, the synagogue leaders sent word to them, saying, 'Brothers, if you have a word of encouragement for the people, please speak.'" Here, Paul and his companions are invited to share a message, illustrating the openness of the synagogue to voices from outside the immediate community.

This practice was not limited to Paul. In Acts 17:2-3 , it is recorded that "As was his custom, Paul went into the synagogue, and on three Sabbath days he reasoned with them from the Scriptures, explaining and proving that the Christ had to suffer and rise from the dead." Paul's ability to reason and discuss the Scriptures in the synagogue setting was facilitated by the tradition of allowing knowledgeable individuals to speak.

The invitation to address the congregation was typically extended after the reading of the Law and the Prophets, a central part of the synagogue service. This reading was followed by a sermon or teaching, often delivered by a member of the congregation or a visiting teacher. The Berean Standard Bible captures this sequence in Luke 4:16-17 , where Jesus, upon entering the synagogue in Nazareth, is given the scroll of the prophet Isaiah to read, after which He delivers a profound message.

The practice of inviting strangers to speak in synagogues highlights the dynamic and interactive nature of Jewish worship and study. It provided a platform for the dissemination of new ideas and interpretations, which was crucial for the early Christian missionaries who sought to share the message of Jesus Christ with Jewish audiences. This openness to dialogue and teaching from diverse voices contributed to the rich tapestry of religious and theological discourse within the Jewish community and beyond.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Acts 13:15
And after the reading of the law and the prophets the rulers of the synagogue sent to them, saying, You men and brothers, if you have any word of exhortation for the people, say on.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Christianity in Rome.
... in Rome he invited the rulers of the synagogues to a ... Sojourners are strangers (comp. ...
Hellenistic Jews in Jerusalem who disputed with Stephen were Libertini, ie ...
/.../history of the christian church volume i/section 36 christianity in rome.htm

Acts VIII
... native city and their individual homes, to seek refuge among strangers. ... for we read
of many rulers of synagogues who believed ... (39) And when they were come up ...
/.../mcgarvey/a commentary on acts of the apostles/acts viii.htm