What is the context?
When opponents resist and insult him, Paul shakes out his garments and declares that they bear responsibility for rejecting his testimony. He turns his attention toward the Gentiles and moves the teaching next door, to the house of Titus Justus, a worshiper of God.
This is not a rejection of every Jewish person. Crispus, the synagogue leader, believes with his household, and many Corinthians hear, believe and are baptized. Later Paul recalls personally baptizing Crispus in 1 Corinthians 1:14–17.
The Lord speaks to Paul in a night vision, telling him not to fear or fall silent. The promise is personal and specific: the Lord is with him, will protect him here and has many people in this city. Paul remains for a year and a half, teaching God’s word.
Paul later describes coming to Corinth in weakness, fear and trembling in 1 Corinthians 2:1–5. His need for encouragement does not mean Luke is accusing him of faithlessness or a failed preaching technique.
How is this passage commonly understood?
Christians commonly read the vision as reassurance that Paul should continue the work despite opposition. The promise that God has many people in the city gives him reason to keep speaking and teaching. It is a promise in this particular mission, not an assurance that every believer in every place will escape physical harm.
Where does this fit in God's plan?
In 1 Corinthians 2:1–5, Paul explains that the Corinthians’ faith should rest on God’s power rather than a speaker’s impressive skill. The frightened messenger is sustained, people believe and a community is taught. God’s purposes advance through a servant who needs help, not through a hero who has no weakness.
What is our position?
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.