Acts 17:4

Some of them. That is, of the Jews in the synagogue (cf. ch. 13:43). These were probably in the minority compared with the unbelieving Jews (ch. 17:5).

Believed. Rather, “were persuaded,” that is, by Paul’s reasoning.

Consorted with Paul. Literally, “were allotted to Paul [by God]” to be disciples. Rotherham translates, “cast in their lot with Paul.”

Devout Greeks. There is some textual evidence for the reading “devout persons and Greeks.” Some of these were proselytes (see on ch. 10:2). But the Thessalonian church appears to have been predominantly Gentile, and some of its members were won from idolatry without passing through Judaism (1 Thess. 1:9; 2:14).

A great multitude. These Gentiles were not hampered by the prejudices that clung so closely about those who were born Jews.

Chief women. These may have been economically and socially independent, like Lydia (ch. 16:14), or the wives of the chief men of the town. It is not possible to decide whether they were Jewesses or Gentiles. Women enjoyed a large measure of freedom in Macedonia. It seems probable that this verse (ch. 17:4) covers more than the three Sabbaths mentioned in v. 2. The tenor of the narrative, with its picture of a prospering work at Thessalonica, and Paul’s epistle (1 Thessalonians) suggest a stay of more than three weeks.