Overview
In Acts 14, Paul and Barnabas visit Lystra where they heal a crippled man. The astonished crowd mistakes them for gods, calling Barnabas "Zeus" (Jupiter) and Paul "Hermes," reflecting the pagan worldview of the Greco-Roman world where Jupiter held supreme place among the gods.
Key Scriptures
"When the crowds saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voices, saying in Lycaonian, 'The gods have come down to us in the likeness of men!' And they called Barnabas Zeus, and Paul, Hermes, because he was the chief speaker." (Acts 14:11-12, ESV)
"The priest of Zeus, whose temple was at the entrance to the city, brought oxen and garlands to the gates and wanted to offer sacrifice with the crowds." (Acts 14:13, ESV)
Application
Recognize that the gospel addresses and displaces false religious systems, calling people away from idolatry toward worship of the one true God through Christ alone.