Acts 13:14 (KJV)

What does Acts 13:14 mean?

Acts 13:14 describes Paul and his companions leaving the city of Perga, traveling to Antioch in Pisidia, and attending the local synagogue on the Sabbath day, where they sat down among those gathered. This verse sets the scene for what will become an important moment of teaching and interaction with the Jewish community there.

Paul and his group are traveling through what is now modern-day Turkey, moving from one city to another as part of their missionary journey. The synagogue was the center of Jewish religious life, especially on the Sabbath (the weekly day of rest and worship), and it was common for visitors or teachers to be invited to speak. This verse introduces the setting for Paul's first recorded sermon in Acts, showing his pattern of reaching out to Jewish audiences first.

The Greek behind Acts 13:14

• συναγωγή (synagōgē): This word means "synagogue," which was the gathering place for Jewish worship and teaching. The use of this term shows that Paul and his companions were intentionally connecting with the local Jewish community.
• σάββατον (sabbaton): This is the Greek word for "Sabbath," the seventh day of the week, set apart for rest and worship. Mentioning the Sabbath highlights the religious context and the expectation that the synagogue would be full of people ready to listen.
• καθίζω (kathizō): Translated here as "sat down," this word often suggests taking a place among others, possibly indicating that Paul and his companions were waiting for an opportunity to speak or be invited to address the assembly.

Why Acts 13:14 matters

• Acts 13:14 clarifies that Paul’s usual practice was to begin his ministry in each city by connecting with the Jewish community in the synagogue, showing respect for Jewish customs and seeking common ground.
• This verse sets up the context for the significant sermon Paul will give in Antioch, which marks a turning point in the spread of the gospel to Gentiles as well as Jews.
• Understanding the setting helps readers see how Paul’s message was rooted in Jewish tradition but also prepared to reach beyond it, as the narrative in Acts unfolds.