Acts 17:28

For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.

Acts 17:28 (KJV)

Context

Paul spoke these words at the Areopagus in Athens, a council where philosophers and intellectuals gathered to discuss new ideas. He stood before people who worshipped many gods, and he used their own culture to introduce them to the one true God who gives life to all.

Meaning

“For in him we live, and move, and have our being” declares that God is not distant or detached from creation. Every breath, every step, and every moment of existence depends on His continuous care. Paul was not describing a God who made the world and left it; he was describing the God who sustains all things at every instant.

“As certain also of your own poets have said” shows Paul’s familiarity with Greek literature. He likely referred to Epimenides and Aratus, whose writings contained lines similar to this. By quoting their own poets, Paul built a bridge between the gospel and his audience, affirming that even their literature hinted at truths about God.

“For we are also his offspring” emphasizes the intimate relationship between God and people. We are not accidents or distant creatures; we are made by Him and bear His likeness. Yet being God’s offspring does not mean everyone is saved. Paul continues in the following verses to call his listeners to repentance and faith in Christ, showing that while all people are God’s creation, only those who turn to Him through Jesus become His children in the fullest sense.

Biblical connections

Paul’s words rest on the truth that God is the source and sustainer of life. Acts 17:24-27 establishes this foundation, describing God as the Creator who gives life and breath to all and who is not far from anyone. This verse also connects to the broader biblical teaching that God is both transcendent above creation and immanent within it.

Application

This verse reminds us that our daily existence is a gift from God. We do not sustain ourselves; He holds us in being. It also encourages us to follow Paul’s example of engaging culture wisely. He did not reject the poets of Athens but used their words to point toward the truth of the gospel. We can do the same, finding honest points of connection with the people around us while never compromising the message of Christ.

Reflection

Because we live and move and have our being in God, no part of life is outside His presence. He is near to every person, and He calls all people to know Him. This truth should lead us to gratitude for His constant care and to a deeper trust in the One who holds our lives in His hands.