Acts 17:34
Howbeit certain men clave unto him, and believed: among the which was Dionysius the Areopagite, and a woman named Damaris, and others with them.
Acts 17:34
Acts 17:34 notes that some among the listeners were won to faith: Dionysius the Areopagite, a woman named Damaris, and others. The conversion of a member of the Areopagus and a female in a primarily male-dominated, elite intellectual setting signals the gospel’s reach across social barriers. The text emphasizes that the Spirit works in diverse lives, andConversion often comes in surprising places and through unexpected individuals. Dionysius’s background as a member of the Areopagus suggests that thoughtful inquiry and open listening can lead to belief when confronted with the truth about Jesus. Damaris’s inclusion highlights that spiritual receptivity is not limited by gender or status. The phrase “and others with them” signals a community of new believers, though not all who heard the message believed. The verse, thus, celebrates transformation that begins in dialogue and is confirmed in faith.
This verse underscores the universality of the gospel’s reach: individuals from different social strata respond to Christ. It affirms the Spirit’s work beyond elite circles and the trustworthiness of witness even in pluralistic settings. The conversion of these individuals demonstrates that belief is possible in the midst of skeptical culture when the truth about Jesus is confronted with the reality of his resurrection and lordship.
Practically, this verse encourages us to invest in relationships across boundaries—sociocultural, gender, and intellectual. It reminds us that credible witness can lead to people from varied backgrounds placing their trust in Jesus. In everyday life, this could mean inviting colleagues from different departments to faith-friendly events, engaging respectfully with friends who hold different beliefs, and sharing personal testimonies of transformation. It also invites us to support new believers in communities where they can grow—small groups, mentoring, and Bible study that welcome questions.
Cross-References (3-5 related verses)
- Acts 8:36-38
- 1 Corinthians 1:26-29
- Galatians 3:28
- James 2:1-5
- 1 Timothy 3:11