Acts 17:32 (KJV)

What does Acts 17:32 mean?

Acts 17:32 describes a divided response to Paul’s speech in Athens. When Paul’s listeners hear about people rising from the dead, some make fun of the idea. Others leave open the possibility of hearing him speak about it again.

The response comes just after Paul has spoken of God raising a man from the dead in verse 31. The people who ask to hear more address Paul directly: “We will hear thee again of this matter.” Their words postpone further discussion.

The Greek behind Acts 17:32

• “resurrection” — ἀνάστασις (anastasis): The word carries the sense of rising or standing up. Here it refers to rising from death, the subject that prompts the listeners’ reactions.
• “mocked” — χλευάζω (chleuazō): This word means to make fun of or ridicule. It suggests an openly scornful reaction, not merely private disagreement.

Why Acts 17:32 matters

• The request to hear Paul again is distinct from the mocking. The verse reports two reactions, but the request alone does not establish that those speakers accepted Paul’s message.
• The account also includes people who became convinced. Verse 34 says that some joined Paul and believed, giving a further response alongside those in verse 32.