Acts 13:45

Arabic Bible Morocco Version - 2012 (الترجمة المغربية القياسية)

وْمْلِّي شَافُو لِيهُودْ الجّْمَاعَاتْ الْكْبِيرَة دْ النَّاسْ، عَمْرَاتْ قْلُوبْهُمْ بْالْغِيرَة وْبْدَاوْ كَيْعَارْضُو كْلَامْ بُولُسْ وْكَيْسَبُّوهْ.

What Does This Mean?

In this verse from Acts, when the Jews saw that many people were listening to Paul's message, they became jealous and started arguing with him, even saying disrespectful things about his teachings.

Explained for Children

Imagine you're at a playground and your friend shares their new toy with everyone. But then some other kids get upset because now all the attention is on your friend instead of them, so they start saying mean things to ruin the fun. That's kind of what happened here, but with grown-ups talking about Jesus.

Historical Background

The Book of Acts was written by Luke around AD 80-100. It tells the story of early Christianity spreading beyond its Jewish roots into the broader Roman world. This passage describes a situation in Antioch where Paul's message drew large crowds, provoking jealousy among local Jews.

Living It Out Today

In today’s context, this could apply to any scenario where someone feels left out because others are attracted to new ideas or people. For example, if a colleague starts leading projects that get everyone excited and you feel ignored, it might lead to envy and conflict.

Topics

• jealousy
• conflict
• spreading the gospel
• blasphemy
• Paul's ministry
• envy

Related Verses

• Genesis 4:5
• Numbers 12:8-9
• Ephesians 4:31
• Titus 3:3
• Proverbs 14:30

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are 'the Jews' in this verse?

The term refers to Jewish people who were living in Antioch at that time and opposed Paul’s teachings.

What does it mean to blaspheme here?

Blasphemy involves showing disrespect or speaking contemptuously about what is considered holy, like God's message as shared by Paul.

Why did the Jews feel envy towards Paul?

They felt envious because they saw that many people were interested in Paul’s teachings rather than theirs, which made them uncomfortable and defensive.

How can this verse help us today?

It reminds us to be aware of our feelings when others gain attention or share ideas we don’t agree with. It encourages us to avoid envy and focus on constructive dialogue.