Acts 17:25
Neither is worshipped with men's hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things;
Acts 17:25 · King James Version
Meaning
When exploring the verse 'Neither is worshipped with men's hands, as though he needed anything, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things;', it is important to understand that this verse emphasizes the self-sufficiency and omnipotence of God. The notion that God does not require human worship or offerings in order to sustain Himself is a reminder of His sovereignty and independence. The verse highlights the fact that God is the ultimate source of life, breath, and all things, and as such, He is not dependent on human actions or rituals in order to maintain His divine power. Instead, God graciously bestows these gifts upon all of creation, demonstrating His abundant love and provision for all. In a world where it is easy to fall into the trap of thinking that we can manipulate or control the divine through our own actions, this verse serves as a powerful reminder that God is truly the giver of all good things, and our worship should be grounded in gratitude and humility rather than a desire to fulfill His needs.
Theological Overview
In this verse from Acts 17:25, the Apostle Paul is addressing the people of Athens, emphasizing the transcendence and self-sufficiency of God. The use of the phrase "worshipped with men's hands" points to the common practice of idolatry in which people would create physical representations of deities and offer sacrifices or worship to them. Paul is asserting that God does not require such physical offerings or displays of worship because He is not in need of anything. This underscores the idea that God is independent, sovereign, and self-sufficient, as He is the ultimate source of life, breath, and all things. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the belief in the divine nature of God and His role as the sustainer of all creation. Through word studies, we can see that the emphasis is on the spiritual rather than the physical act of worship, reinforcing the notion that God desires a genuine, heartfelt connection with His creation rather than mere external rituals or offerings.
Acts 17:25 in other translations
American Standard Version
neither is he served by men's hands, as though he needed anything, seeing he himself giveth to all life, and breath, and all things;
World English Bible
neither is he served by men’s hands, as though he needed anything, seeing he himself gives to all life and breath, and all things.
Douay-Rheims
Neither is he served with men's hands, as though he needed any thing: seeing it is he who giveth to all life and breath and all things:
Geneva Bible (1599)
Neither is worshipped with mens handes, as though he needed any thing, seeing hee giueth to all life and breath and all things,