Acts 17:32-24 32But when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked, but others said, “We will listen to you again about this.” 33So Paul went out from their midst. 34But some men joining him believed, among whom also were Dionysius the Areopagite and a woman named Damaris and others with them.
Paul’s speech apparently ended with his claim about resurrection. It appears that the connection he was about to make to Jesus was interrupted by mockers. The mockers could have included the Stoics, who believed in only a spiritual existence after death, or the Epicureans, who believed human existence ended at death. The reaction seemed to be strong enough that Paul could not continue on. However, there were some intrigued by what Paul had to say. They were not fully convinced, but at least curious. Some of the scattered seed of the gospel will land on hard soil, and others will land on fertile soil. Paul was given another opportunity to explain his ideas further. Curiosity is not faith but can lead to faith.
As Paul was able to explain more, some people came to believe in Jesus. Verse 34 is significant considering the context of Athens, a city full of idolatry and skepticism. Two of the new converts are mentioned by name. Nothing is further known about Dionysius and Damaris, though various traditions emerged centuries later. Dionysius’ title as the Areopagite indicates that he may have been part of the council in the Areopagus who first heard Paul’s speech. Damaris may have been a woman of higher social standing since she is named. The others who came to believe may have come from the Jewish synagogue or from the marketplace or the Areopagus where Paul spoke.
Although Paul’s ministry in Athens showed some frustration and challenges, it also bore fruit in changed lives. He was able to share the gospel in a way that fit the pagan context of Athens. He did not compromise the core tenet of Jesus’ resurrection. He was able to argue from general natural revelation to the special and unique revelation of Jesus. He did not back away from the social problem of idolatry but used it as an opportunity to correct wrong thinking about divinity. He helped the Greeks see that time was moving to a conclusion (teleology) and not just the circular existence that struggle in. This should have provided a sense of hope and purpose. Today’s world shares many ideas with ancient Athens, though more complex and sophisticated. We can learn from Paul’s method about courage, clarity of message, and being uncompromising in our convictions.