Thessalonica

Now when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where there was a synagogue of the Jews.

Acts 17:1-9

Having departed Philippi, Paul and his entourage head further north in present day Europe. Luke tells us they “passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia” as they came to Thessalonica where there was a Jewish community with a synagogue. For a community to have a synagogue, there must be a minimum of 10 Jewish men over the age of 13 in the community according to Jewish custom of the day. As usual, Paul went to the synagogue on the Sabbath and he spent 3 Sabbaths reasoning and explaining the gospel to the people attending there. Luke tells us some Jews were persuaded, a lot of God fearing Greeks and, a great many women were converted to Christianity. But other Jews, envious unbelievers, stirred up some rabble rousers in the city and caused a great mob to attack Jason’s house where Paul and the others were staying while in Thessalonica. When the mob could not find Paul and his entourage, they dragged Jason before the city authorities complaining that Jason was harboring these men who were upsetting the status quo in Thessalonica, even claiming they were disobeying the laws of Caesar. Although the city authorities were disturbed by these charges, they were assuaged by payments of money “as security” from Jason and others and they let go them all go. The Preacher of Ecclesiastes was correct in saying, “There is nothing new under the sun.” A little graft here and some there to a ruling official sure makes the way easier to accomplish what you want regardless of serving the public as they are elected to do, both then and today. Christians have a sure hope, in Christ, that He will reign justly and His elect will reign with Him in the age to come. Christians, we will rule the universe when we are glorified with our Savior and Lord, Jesus!

Source: S C Ball July 17, 2023