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Because he (God) hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness
by that man (Jesus) whom he hath ordained (chosen); whereof he hath given assurance (proof)
unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.

Righteousness is the standard by which the whole world will be judged (John 16:8, 10). The
“proof” Paul is referring to is the miracles, signs, and wonders Jesus performed on the earth
and the continued miracles of the disciples. Paul is showing he is as much chosen by God as
Jesus was. Anyone who is born-again becomes one of the chosen of God and can also move
into a life of the supernatural.

When Paul mentions the resurrection, the Athenians fall apart. They have no teaching or belief
in the resurrection. Of all the gods they give credence to in Athens, none taught of
resurrection, so they have no frame of reference.

REACTION TO PAUL’S MESSAGE

Act 17:32 And when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked, while others
said, "We will hear you again on this matter."

When others had spoken from Mars Hill, some listening could understand and some could not.
When Paul speaks, no one can understand. It is only by the Holy Spirit that some can believe in
Paul’s message and become born again.

Act 17:33 So Paul departed from among them.

Act 17:34 However, some men joined him and believed, among them Dionysius the
Areopagite, a woman named Damaris, and others with them.

Paul was sent by the Holy Spirit to Athens for these few people. Just as in Philippi,
Thessalonica, and Berea, Paul is obedient even when only a few accept the Lord. We do not
know exactly how many believe at the time, but Athens goes on to have a revival through the
converts in Greece.