Journal: Southeastern Theological Review
Volume: STR 13:1 (Spring 2022)
Article: Of Gods, Government, And Gospel: A Missiological Application Of Acts 28:11
Author: Ant Greenham

STR 13:1 (Spring 2022) p. 59

Of Gods, Government, And Gospel: A Missiological Application Of Acts 28:11

Ant Greenham

Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, Wake Forest, NC

Abstract: Genuine Christian faith entails turning from idols. A question thus arises, why does Luke choose to mention the pagan Διοσκούροις (twin gods) figurehead in Acts 28:11? Most commentators say little on the subject. However, the final section of Acts, which details Paul’s journey from Ephesus via Jerusalem to Rome, presents comparisons with the Διοσκούροις. In particular, the word two (δύο) or a cognate thereof occurs several times. The word group appears within a ring composition, which takes the form of a prophetic rhetorical template, with the climax in the center. In this case, the climax is a formidable Roman force, comprised of two centurions, two hundred soldiers, and two hundred spearmen (Acts 23:23), which left from Jerusalem with Paul and an official letter affirming his legitimate evangelistic activities. Validating Paul’s ministry is a key Lukan concern. This concern is enhanced by the surrounding prophetic rhetorical template, which inter alia parallels the Ephesian crowd shouting for Artemis (Acts 19:34) with the Διοσκούροις. With this link, Luke subtly but clearly shows that the Διοσκούροις exemplify pagan folly. A three-part missiological application follows: Gospel proclamation by law-abiding Christians is legitimate in all contexts. Idolatrous tendencies should be identified in whatever form they appear. However, idolaters must have the freedom to worship their false gods without fearing Christians will ridicule or destroy them.

Key Words: Acts 28:11, Artemis, chiasm, Διοσκούροις, idolatry, ring composition, twin gods

Abandoning Pagan Deities

In his affectionate letter to the Thessalonian believers, the apostle Paul recalls with gratitude how they “turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come” (1 Thess 1:9‒10 ESV). Embracing Christ and his salvation is of course integral to genuine Christian faith. However, turning from idols is a key element in the process.

It may be asked to what extent “turning from” is necessary in any