King James Version
Acts 14:16 in the King James Version says “Who in times past suffered all nations to walk in their own ways.” — study this verse from Acts chapter 14 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.
“Who in times past suffered all nations to walk in their own ways.”
Acts 14:16 · KJV
Which when the apostles, Barnabas and Paul, heard of, they rent their clothes, and ran in among the people, crying out,
And saying, Sirs, why do ye these things? We also are men of like passions with you, and preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God, which made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein :
Who in times past suffered all nations to walk in their own ways.
Nevertheless he left not himself without witness, in that he did good, and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness.
And with these sayings scarce restrained they the people, that they had not done sacrifice unto them.
KJV Study — Public Domain
“nations”
G1484a race (as of the same habit), i.e., a tribe; specially, a foreign (non-jewish) one (usually, by implication, pagan)
“to walk”
G4198to traverse, i.e., travel (literally or figuratively; especially to remove (figuratively, die), live, etc.)
“ways”
G3598a road; by implication, a progress (the route, act or distance); figuratively, a mode or means
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
This verse is found in the book of Acts. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Acts 14:16 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Acts 14:16 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge