Commentary on Acts 14:15
Acts 14:15 states, "Sirs, why do ye these things? We also are men of like passions with you, and preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God, which made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein."
Introduction
The apostle Paul and Barnabas find themselves in Lystra, where they are misconstrued as divine beings following a miraculous healing. The locals, influenced by their traditions, attempt to honor them, demonstrating a crucial moment for the apostles to clarify their identity and mission. This passage encapsulates profound themes of humanity, divinity, and the call to true worship.
Understanding the Context
In the context of Acts 14, Paul and Barnabas have just healed a lame man. The response from the Lystrans showcases their ingrained pagan practices and beliefs, highlighting the confusion between God's messengers and the divine.
Insights from Commentators
- Matthew Henry: Henry highlights the Apostles’ humble declaration of their humanity, emphasizing that they are not deserving of the worship the people intend to offer. This is significant as it stresses the human condition, where even the most devout servants of God possess the same "like passions" as those they preach to. Henry elaborates that they were concerned about the glory of God, rejecting any form of idolatry.
- Albert Barnes: Barnes notes the importance of the term "vanities," pointing to the emptiness of idol worship. He argues that Paul and Barnabas directed the audience's focus from superficial and temporary idols to the "living God." This transition emphasizes reformation and restoration among believers, reinforcing the core message that only divine truth brings salvation and meaning.
- Adam Clarke: Clarke discusses the phrase "like passions," suggesting it signifies not only the shared human nature among all people but also the struggles and temptations faced. This commonality allows the Apostles to relate to the people more profoundly and creates an authentic connection. Clarke elaborates on the call to "the living God," inferring that Paul aims to distinguish the eternal and active God from the dead idols of the culture.
Theological Implications
This passage raises crucial theological questions about human nature and divine agency. The acknowledgment of shared humanity among the apostles and the people reflects a central tenet of Christian theology: that all people, regardless of their status or role, are equal before God.
The Role of Humanity
The insistence that "we also are men of like passions" serves to counteract the entrenched idolatry while painting a clear picture of the divine mission of Paul and Barnabas. Their role is not to elevate themselves to a status of worship but to serve as instruments of God's will, indicating a fundamental aspect of Christian leadership and ministry.
Call to Repentance
Paul’s exhortation to turn from "these vanities" symbolizes a broader call to repentance that extends beyond the historical context of Lystra. It urges contemporary readers to examine their own lives for areas where they might be tempted to replace God with other idols — be they material possessions, status, or self-indulgence.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Acts 14:15 serves as a critical reminder of the nature of true worship and the understanding of God’s identity in relation to our own. The insights from revered commentaries highlight the importance of theological humility, the rejection of idolatry, and the necessity of preaching the living God. For pastors, theologians, and students, this passage urges a deeper investigation into what it means to truly worship the creator and to communicate that message in an increasingly pagan society.