New Testament
Acts 17:4
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Some of them were persuaded and joined Paul and Silas, along with a large number of devout Greeks and quite a few prominent women.
Compare translations
And some of them believed, and consorted with Paul and Silas; and of the devout Greeks a great multitude, and of the chief women not a few.
What Acts 17:4 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we see the impact of Paul and Silas's message as they share their beliefs in a new city. Some people were convinced by their teachings and decided to follow them. This included not only a significant number of devoted Greeks, who were already seeking a deeper understanding of faith, but also many influential women. Their willingness to join Paul and Silas highlights the power of community and the importance of being open to new ideas. It shows that faith can transcend cultural and social boundaries, bringing together diverse groups of people. The response of these individuals illustrates how a compelling message can resonate with those who are searching for truth and meaning in their lives. This moment marks a significant step in the spread of their teachings, as it demonstrates that the message of hope and change can attract a wide audience, regardless of background or status. It encourages us to consider how we respond to new ideas and the potential for transformation in our own lives.
How to apply Acts 17:4 to your life
This passage encourages us to be open to new ideas and perspectives. Just as the Greeks and women joined Paul and Silas, we should seek out communities that inspire growth and understanding. Embrace opportunities to learn from others and share your own beliefs with kindness and respect. You never know who might be influenced by your journey of faith and discovery.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Paul's story: Thessalonica and Berea (Acts 17:1–15)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Paul
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Acts 17:4
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Acts 17:4
Related Bible verses
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Acts
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 62
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Acts 17:4 mean?
Acts 17:4 describes how some people in a new city were convinced by Paul and Silas's message and chose to follow them. This included many devoted Greeks and prominent women, highlighting the appeal of their teachings across different social groups.
What is the significance of the devout Greeks in Acts 17:4?
The devout Greeks in Acts 17:4 represent individuals who were already seeking a deeper understanding of faith. Their willingness to join Paul and Silas shows that the message of hope can resonate with those who are spiritually curious.
How does Acts 17:4 illustrate community and diversity?
Acts 17:4 illustrates community and diversity by showing how people from different backgrounds, including Greeks and women of influence, came together in response to Paul and Silas's teachings. This reflects the unifying power of faith.
What can we learn from Acts 17:4 about sharing beliefs?
Acts 17:4 teaches us the importance of sharing our beliefs openly and respectfully. Just as Paul and Silas inspired others to join them, we can influence those around us by being genuine in our faith and open to new ideas.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.