Definition: And with these sayings scarce restrained they the people, that they had not done sacrifice unto them.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this important passage from Acts 14:18. It's a really significant moment in how the early church started to spread its message and influence. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a situation where people were really resistant to the teachings of the apostles (those early leaders of the church). They weren't just confused; they were actively stopping the message from spreading. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And with these sayings scarce restrained…” – This means that the apostles were trying to explain something, and they were trying to stop them from listening or understanding. They weren't just talking; they were actively pushing back against their own ideas. “…they the people.” – “The people” refers to a group of diverse individuals – likely ordinary citizens in the area where the apostles were preaching. “That they had not done sacrifice unto them.” – This is the core of it. "Sacrifice" in this context means ritual offerings, prayers, or devotion that was central to Jewish tradition and practiced by Christians. The apostles were trying to stop these practices. What happened next? The verse goes on to say that, despite their efforts to stop them, the people didn’t do these sacrifices. They continued to participate in them anyway. Why is this important? This is a crucial moment because it demonstrates: Early Conversion: It shows that the early Christians weren't just passively accepting things; they were actively resisting what was happening. The Power of Belief: It highlights the power of faith and belief in influencing people’s actions, even when those actions are counter to what is being preached. In essence, this verse tells us that the apostles weren't just trying to teach; they were actively challenging the traditions and practices of the time. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific part of the verse in more detail? Provide a little context about what was happening at the time?