Albert Barnes Commentary Acts 17:34

"But certain men clave unto him, and believed: among whom also was Dionysius the Areopagite, and a woman named Damaris, and others with them." — Acts 17:34 (ASV)

Joined themselves to him. Adhered to him firmly; embraced the Christian religion.

Dionysius. Nothing more is certainly known of this man than is here stated.

The Areopagite. Connected with the court of Areopagus, but in what way is not known. It is probable that he was one of the judges. The conversion of one man was worth the labor of Paul; and the secret influence of that conversion might have had an extensive influence on others.

In regard to this interesting account of the visit of Paul to Athens—probably the only one which he made to that splendid capital—we may remark:

1. He was indefatigable and constant in his great work.
2. Christians, amidst the splendor and gaieties of such cities, should have their hearts deeply affected in view of the moral desolations of the people.
3. They should be willing to do their duty, and to bear witness to the pure and simple gospel in the presence of the great and the noble.
4. They should not consider it their main business to admire splendid temples, and statues, and paintings—the works of art; but their main business should be, to do good as they may have opportunity.
5. A discourse, even in the midst of much wickedness and idolatry, may be calm and dignified; not an appeal merely to the passions, but to the understanding. Paul reasoned with the philosophers of Athens; he did not denounce them; he endeavored calmly to convince them, not harshly to censure them.
6. The example of Paul is a good one for all Christians. In all places—cities, towns, or country; amidst all people—philosophers, and the rich, and the poor; among friends and countrymen, or among strangers and foreigners, the great object should be to do good, to instruct mankind, and to seek to elevate the human character, and promote human happiness, by diffusing the mild and pure precepts of the gospel of Christ.