“For as I passed along and observed the objects of your worship, I found also an altar with this inscription, 'To the unknown god.' What therefore you worship as unknown, this I proclaim to you.”
Acts 17:23
Summary
In Acts 17, Paul and Silas travel to Thessalonica, where Paul preaches in the synagogue, explaining the necessity of Christ's suffering and resurrection. Some Jews and a large number of God-fearing Greeks believe, but others, fueled by jealousy, incite a mob against them, forcing Paul and Silas to flee. They next arrive in Berea, where their teachings are received with eagerness, and the Scriptures are examined daily. However, Jews from Thessalonica also stir up crowds against them in Berea, prompting Paul's departure to Athens, while Silas and Timothy remain. In Athens, Paul is distressed by the city's idolatry and engages with Epicurean and Stoic philosophers at the Areopagus. He speaks of the 'unknown god' and preaches the need for repentance in light of the resurrection, leading to mockery from some and curiosity or belief from others.