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Acts 17:26
Verse
Context
Paul’s Address in the Areopagus
25Nor is He served by human hands, as if He needed anything, because He Himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else. 26From one man He made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and He determined their appointed times and the boundaries of their lands.
Sermons




Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Hath made of one blood - In AB, some others, with the Coptic, Ethiopic, Vulgate, Itala, Clement, and Bede, the word αἱματος, blood, is omitted. He hath made of one (meaning Adam) all nations of men; but αἱμα, blood, is often used by the best writers for race, stock, kindred: so Homer, Iliad, vi. ver. 211: Ταυτης τοι γενεης τε και αἱματος ευχομαι ειναι. I glory in being of that same race and blood. So Virgil, Aen. viii. ver. 142, says; Sic genus amborum scindit se Sanguine ab uno. Thus, from one stock, do both our stems divide. See many examples of this form in Kypke. The Athenians had a foolish notion that they were self-produced, and were the aboriginals of mankind. Lucian ridicules this opinion, Αθηναιοι φασι τους πρωτους ανθρωπους εκ της Αττικης αναφυναι, καθαπερ τα λαχανα. The Athenians say that the first men sprung up in Attica, like radishes. Luc. Philo-pseud. 3. To dwell on all the face of the earth - God in his wisdom produced the whole human race from one man; and, having in his providence scattered them over the face of the earth, by showing them that they sprang from one common source, has precluded all those contentious wars and bloodshed which would necessarily have taken place among the nations of the world, as each in its folly might have arrogated to itself a higher and more excellent origin than another. And hath determined the times before appointed - Instead of προτεταγμενους καιρους, the times before appointed, ABDE, and more than forty others, with both the Syriac, all the Arabic, the Coptic, Ethiopic, MS. Slavonian, Vulgate, and Itala, read προστεταγμενους καιρους, the appointed times. The difference between the two words is this: προτασσειν signifies to place before others; but προστασσειν is to command, decree, appoint. The προστεταγμενοι καιροι, are the constituted or decreed times; that is, the times appointed by his providence, on which the several families should go to those countries where his wisdom designed they should dwell. See Genesis 10:5-32; and see Pearce and Rosenmuller. And the bounds of their habitations - Every family being appointed to a particular place, that their posterity might possess it for the purposes for which infinite wisdom and goodness gave them their being, and the place of their abode. Every nation had its lot thus appointed by God, as truly as the Israelites had the land of Canaan. But the removal of the Jews from their own land shows that a people may forfeit their original inheritance, and thus the Canaanites have been supplanted by the Jews; the Jews by the Saracens; the Saracens by the Turks; the Greeks by the Romans; the Romans by the Goths and Vandals; and so of others. See the notes on Genesis 11:1-32 (note).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
and hath made of one blood all nations of men to dwell on all the face of the earth--Holding with the Old Testament teaching, that in the blood is the life (Gen 9:4; Lev 17:11; Deu 12:23), the apostle sees this life stream of the whole human race to be one, flowing from one source [BAUMGARTEN]. and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation--The apostle here opposes both Stoical Fate and Epicurean Chance, ascribing the periods and localities in which men and nations flourish to the sovereign will and prearrangements of a living God.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And hath made of one blood,.... That is, of one man's blood; the Vulgate Latin version reads, "of one"; and the Arabic version of De Dieu reads, "of one man"; of Adam, the first parent of all mankind, and who had the blood of all men in his veins: hence the Jews (u) say, "the first man was , "the blood of the world";'' and this by propagation has been derived from him, and communicated to all mankind. They also say (w), that "the reason why man was created alone (or there was but one man created) was, on account of families, that they might not be stirred up one against another;'' that is, strive and contend with one another about pre-eminence: and they add, "that the righteous might not say we are the sons of the righteous, and ye are the sons of the wicked.'' And it is a certain truth that follows upon this, that no man has any reason to vaunt over another, and boast of his blood and family; and as little reason have any to have any dependence upon their being the children of believers, or to distinguish themselves from others, and reject them as the children of unbelievers, when all belong to one family, and are of one man's blood, whether Adam or Noah: of whom are all nations of men, for to dwell on all the face of the earth; for from Adam sprung a race of men, which multiplied on the face of the earth, and peopled the world before the flood; these being destroyed by the flood, and Noah and his family saved, his descendants were scattered all over the earth, and repeopled it: and this is the original of all the nations of men, and of all the inhabitants of the earth; and stands opposed to the fabulous accounts of the Heathens, which the apostle might have in his view, that men at first grew up out of the earth, or after the flood were formed of stones, which Deucalion and Prometheus threw over their heads; and particularly the Athenians boasted that they sprung out of the earth, which Diogenes ridiculed as common with mice and worms. But the apostle ascribes all to one blood: and hath determined the times before appointed; how long the world he has made shall continue; and the several distinct periods, ages, and generations, in which such and such men should live, such and such nations should exist, and such monarchies should be in being, as the Assyrian, Persian, Grecian, and Roman, and how long they should subsist; as also the several seasons of the year, as seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, and day and night; and which are so bounded, and kept so distinct in their revolutions, as not to interfere with, and encroach upon each other; and likewise the several years, months, and days of every man's life; see Job 7:1 to which may be added, the times of the law and Gospel; the time of Christ's birth and death; the time of the conversion of particular persons; and all their times of desertion, temptation, affliction, and comfort; the times of the church's sufferings, both under Rome Pagan and Rome Papal; of the holy city being trodden under foot, of the witnesses prophesying in sackcloth, and of their being killed, and their bodies lying unburied, and of their resurrection and ascension to heaven, Rev 2:10 Rev 11:12 the time of antichrist's reign and ruin, Rev 13:5 and of Christ's personal coming, and the day of judgment, Ti1 6:15 and of his reign on earth for a thousand years, Rev 20:4. All these are appointed times, and determined by the Creator and Governor of the world: and the bounds of their habitation; where men shall dwell, and how long they shall continue there the age or distinct period of time, in which every man was, or is to come into the world, is fixed and determined by God; nor can, nor does anyone come into the world sooner or later than that time; and also the particular country, city, town, and spot of ground where he shall dwell; and the term of time how long he shall dwell there, and then remove to another place, or be removed by death. And to this agrees the Ethiopic version, which renders the whole thus, "and hath appointed his times, and his years, how long they shall dwell"; see Deu 32:8 to which the apostle seems to refer. (u) Caphtor, fol. 37. 2. (w) T. Hieros. Sanhedrin, fol. 22. 2.
Acts 17:26
Paul’s Address in the Areopagus
25Nor is He served by human hands, as if He needed anything, because He Himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else. 26From one man He made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and He determined their appointed times and the boundaries of their lands.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(The Works of Faith) Learning to Be Content
By Zac Poonen2.1K1:01:09PSA 139:1PSA 139:13MAT 6:33ACT 17:26PHP 4:11PHP 4:19HEB 5:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of embracing suffering and obedience on earth. They warn against avoiding suffering because it can hinder opportunities for spiritual growth and education that cannot be obtained in eternity. The speaker references Philippians 4:11, where Paul states that he has learned to be content in all circumstances, whether in abundance or lack. They highlight the value of learning contentment and not complaining, even in difficult situations. The sermon also mentions Jesus as an example of learning obedience through suffering when he became a man.
Evolution - Foundation for the Antichrist 1
By Kent Hovind1.9K58:14GEN 1:27PRO 24:11MAT 25:40ACT 17:26EPH 6:12This sermon delves into the dangerous implications of evolution as a foundation for ideologies like racism, genocide, and totalitarianism. It explores how influential figures like Hitler, Mussolini, and Stalin were driven by evolutionary beliefs to commit atrocities against humanity. The speaker highlights the importance of understanding the philosophical underpinnings of historical events and the urgent need to address the impact of such ideologies in modern society.
(Genesis) 20 - the Table of Nations; or the History of the Sons of Noah
By S. Lewis Johnson1.5K49:48God's ProvidenceNoahUnity of MankindGEN 10:1DEU 32:8ISA 9:6ACT 17:26ROM 4:5S. Lewis Johnson explores Genesis chapter 10, known as the Table of Nations, emphasizing its significance in understanding God's providence in history and the unity of mankind. He highlights the genealogies of Noah's sons—Shem, Ham, and Japheth—and their descendants, noting the importance of these names in tracing the lineage leading to Abraham and ultimately to Jesus Christ. Johnson argues that this chapter, often overlooked, is crucial for recognizing the divine plan for salvation and the interconnectedness of all nations. He also discusses the implications of Nimrod's legacy as a symbol of rebellion against God, contrasting it with the redemptive purpose of God through Abraham's line. The sermon concludes with a call to recognize the grace of God available to all through faith in Christ.
Apostolic Foundations (1 of 12)
By Art Katz1.3K57:15ApostolicMAT 6:33ACT 17:261TH 2:3In this sermon, the speaker contemplates the opportunity to address a group of worldly men with the wisdom of God. He describes the suffering and persecution faced by the apostles, who remained steadfast in their faith. The speaker emphasizes the importance of relying on God's resurrection power rather than relying on prepared manuscripts. He also highlights the purpose of human existence, which is to seek after God and be found by Him, as stated in the Bible.
Answers for Modern Science Questions
By Ken Ham9301:00:05GEN 9:251SA 16:7ACT 17:262CO 6:14This sermon emphasizes the biblical perspective on race, explaining that all humans belong to one biological race but can be divided into two spiritual races based on their relationship with God. It also addresses the misconceptions about the curse of Ham and interracial marriage, highlighting the importance of focusing on the heart and spiritual unity in relationships. The speaker encourages looking beyond outward appearances and cultural differences to see people as God sees them.
Apostolic Foundations (3 of 12)
By Art Katz81359:16ApostolicMAT 6:33ACT 13:2ACT 17:23ACT 17:26ACT 17:301CO 15:521TH 1:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the urgency of the gospel message and the imminent judgment of God. He challenges the idea that the gospel is simply a pleasant and soothing message, asserting that it is actually the apocalyptic heart of God's plan for restoration. The preacher encourages believers to embrace their responsibility to proclaim the truth, even if it means being labeled as dogmatic or intolerant. He draws inspiration from the apostle Paul's boldness in preaching the gospel, highlighting Paul's uncompromising message of repentance and the coming judgment of God. The sermon concludes with a call to eagerly anticipate the return of Christ and to endure persecution and suffering, knowing that it will be worth it all when the King establishes his kingdom.
Five Truths and Eight Confessions
By Zac Poonen56651:17LUK 11:13JHN 17:23ACT 17:26GAL 3:13HEB 2:14HEB 13:61JN 1:91JN 5:3This sermon emphasizes the importance of believing and confessing God's promises, such as God's love, forgiveness, empowerment through the Holy Spirit, contentment, obedience to His commands, gratitude, freedom from fear, and being a blessing to others. It encourages believers to trust in God's control over all situations, reject fear and guilt, and live in the victory of Christ's defeat over Satan. The message highlights the significance of the blood of Christ, the word of God, the Holy Spirit, taking up the daily cross, and active participation in the local body of Christ for spiritual growth and impact.
Unreached Peoples: The Tribes of Myanmar Burma Shan State
By Paul Hattaway50600:00GEN 11:6PSA 133:1ECC 3:1ACT 17:26REV 7:9This sermon explores the diverse ethnic minorities in Shan State, focusing on the Balaon tribe living peacefully in the high western Shan mountains, their unique customs, and the bonfire ceremony marking the end of the dry season. It delves into the marketplace where various tribes like Bo'o, Taungyo, and Tanu come together to trade, highlighting the unity among the Shans, including the Inna tribe living on Inle Lake.
Apostolic Foundations - Part 1
By Art Katz49656:58ApostolicACT 17:262TI 4:2In this sermon, the preacher discusses the suffering of Silas in prison, emphasizing their obedience to God's vision despite their difficult circumstances. The preacher highlights the miraculous release that came through their praise in their darkest hour. The sermon then shifts to discussing the importance of relying on God's resurrection life to express oneself in preaching, rather than relying on prepared manuscripts. The preacher also praises the apostle Paul for his excellence in speech and reasoning, using rhetoric as a reference point.
The Battle for Israel Pt 2
By Billy Strachan2871:05:38IsraelGEN 17:8EXO 6:8PSA 105:8MAT 7:21LUK 13:23ACT 17:26HEB 6:17In this sermon, the speaker discusses the theme of the end times and its relevance to all professing Christians. He refers to Matthew 24, where Jesus talks about the signs of the end of the age and the beginning of sorrows. The speaker emphasizes that believers will face tribulation and persecution for their faith, but they should remain on God's side. He also highlights the concept of predestination, stating that God has a plan for each individual's life and that believers should trust in His sovereignty. The speaker concludes by emphasizing the importance of a small piece of territory, Canaan, and suggests that both God and the devil attach great significance to it.
The Nations in Relation to God
By Art Katz0Nations and GodThe Church's RolePSA 24:1ACT 17:26Art Katz emphasizes the relationship between nations and God, arguing that nations have strayed into independence from divine authority, neglecting their obligation to seek God. He highlights that every culture, while seemingly gracious, often harbors hostility towards God, and warns that nations will be judged for their failure to pursue God's purposes. Katz points out that God created nations with the intention that they seek Him, and he urges the church to act as a prophetic voice, guiding nations back to their divine purpose. He stresses the importance of understanding Israel's central role in God's plan for the nations and calls for deep repentance and prayer for nations, particularly in the context of their historical failures. Ultimately, Katz calls for a reawakening of the church's responsibility to proclaim God's truth to the nations.
The Emergence of Sin and Misery
By John Piper0GEN 3:5GEN 12:1MRK 2:17ACT 17:26ROM 3:23ROM 8:20EPH 2:12TH 1:7HEB 10:19John Piper preaches on 'The Emergence of Sin and Misery,' emphasizing the foundational truths of God's creation and the doctrine of original sin. He explains how sin and misery have affected all humanity since the fall of Adam and Eve, leading to the necessity of redemption through Christ. Piper delves into the power of sin, its origin, nature, consequences, and the divine remedy provided by God, urging listeners to understand the depth of their sinfulness and the need for forgiveness and holiness through Christ.
Four Voices: Part 1
By Warren Wiersbe0PSA 2:1MAT 11:29ACT 14:17ACT 17:26REV 19:16Warren Wiersbe preaches on the importance of discernment in a noisy world filled with conflicting voices, emphasizing the need for truth amidst propaganda. He highlights the four voices in Psalms 2: the voice of defiance from the nations seeking freedom without God, the voice of derision from God the Father who laughs at the rebellion on earth, the voice of Jesus as the established King in heaven, and the voice of the world's corruption resulting from defiance against God, leading to moral, intellectual, social, political, economic, and ecological chaos.
One Blood
By J.C. Ryle0The Blood of ChristUnity of HumanityGEN 1:27MAT 25:40ACT 17:26ROM 5:12EPH 1:7COL 1:20HEB 9:221PE 1:181JN 1:7REV 7:14J.C. Ryle emphasizes the unity of humanity as he reflects on St. Paul's message at Mars' Hill, asserting that all people are made from 'one blood' and thus share a common origin from Adam and Eve. He argues that this truth underlines the need for a singular remedy for sin, which is the blood of Christ, and calls for Christians to embody brotherly love and kindness towards all, regardless of social status. Ryle warns against modern skepticism regarding the Bible and stresses the importance of maintaining faith in its teachings, particularly concerning the atonement of Christ. He challenges believers to actively demonstrate their faith through acts of love and charity, reminding them that neglecting these duties could lead to dire consequences in the afterlife. Ultimately, he urges the faithful to leave the world better than they found it by practicing compassion and understanding towards their fellow human beings.
(The Full Gospel) 21. Helping God!!
By Zac Poonen0GEN 15:5EXO 17:6NUM 20:72SA 6:6ECC 10:8MAT 11:28JHN 5:19ACT 17:26ROM 2:4Zac Poonen preaches on the dangers of using human reasoning and trying to help God according to our own understanding, as seen in the stories of Abraham, Moses, and Uzzah. He emphasizes the importance of seeking God's will and guidance in all decisions, rather than relying on man-made plans. Poonen highlights the consequences of stepping outside of God's boundaries and the need to trust in God's ways, even when they may not align with our own thoughts or methods.
Bible Survey - Deuteronomy
By Peter Hammond0DEU 10:12MAT 22:37ACT 17:26EPH 2:8Peter Hammond preaches on the book of Deuteronomy, which signifies the second giving of the Law, addressing a new generation poised to enter the Promised Land after the previous generation's disobedience. Moses delivers a graduation speech, reminding them of their history, emphasizing obedience to God's Law, and warning of the consequences of disobedience. Deuteronomy stresses the importance of obedience, love for God, and the blessings that come from following His commandments, covering various aspects of life from justice to charity to respecting God and others. The book highlights the connection between obedience and blessings, as well as the retribution for disobedience, showing that God is interested in every area of our lives.
Internal Gyro-Compass
By Ernest O'Neill0PSA 139:13PRO 20:27JHN 16:13ACT 17:26ROM 2:14Ernest O'Neill delves into the essence of conscience, highlighting how our spirits enable us to communicate with the Supreme Being who created us. He emphasizes that our conscience, rooted in our spirit, guides us towards a higher purpose beyond the physical realm, reflecting a memory of God's image within us. O'Neill explains that conscience serves as a vital personal guidance system, unique to each individual, urging us to align our actions with what God intends for us, ultimately leading to a spiritual rebirth.
On God's Vineyard
By John Wesley0God's ProvisionSpiritual FruitfulnessISA 5:4ACT 17:26John Wesley preaches on the metaphor of God's vineyard, emphasizing that God has done everything possible to nurture His people, yet they often produce 'wild grapes' instead of the expected fruit of righteousness. He explores the various ways God has provided doctrine, spiritual helps, discipline, and protection, particularly within the Methodist community, and questions why, despite these blessings, the faithful sometimes stray into error and sin. Wesley calls for self-examination among believers, urging them to recognize the dangers of worldly desires and the importance of community in fostering spiritual growth. He challenges the congregation to reflect on their relationship with God and their commitment to living out their faith authentically. Ultimately, he emphasizes the need for a genuine response to God's grace to bear the fruit He desires.
(God-Centered Praying) 9. to God Be the Glory
By Zac Poonen0GEN 15:6PSA 62:11ISA 42:8MAT 7:22MAT 25:31ACT 17:26PHP 3:131TI 6:5REV 1:8Zac Poonen preaches on the Lord's Prayer, emphasizing the importance of beginning and ending our prayers with a focus on God's kingdom, power, and glory. He highlights the significance of acknowledging God as the Alpha and Omega, the center and circumference of our lives, and the One we live and move in. Poonen draws parallels between the final statements of the prayer and the temptations Jesus faced in the wilderness, emphasizing the need for humility, servanthood, and giving all glory to God alone.
Groping for God Upon Less-Than-Green Grounds
By Bryan Anthony0PSA 27:8PRO 3:5JHN 21:22ACT 17:26ROM 8:28Bryan Anthony preaches about God's intentional placement of His children in specific times and boundaries, emphasizing the importance of seeking and groping for Him in the midst of life's transitions and trials. He highlights that God's reality often opposes our idealistic wish-dreams, urging believers to focus on seeking God rather than longing for greener pastures or worldly accomplishments. Anthony encourages the congregation to trust in God's wisdom and sovereignty, reminding them that He is always near and at work in their lives, even in seasons of silence and turmoil.
Divine Strengthening
By H.J. Vine0JOB 38:7PSA 138:3MAT 11:25ACT 17:26EPH 3:16COL 1:10HEB 5:14REV 1:18H.J. Vine preaches about the divine strengthening provided by God according to the riches of His glory, enabling believers to be filled with power by the Holy Spirit in their inner being. The sermon emphasizes the importance of Christ dwelling in our hearts through faith and being reproduced in our lives, leading to endurance, long-suffering, joyfulness, and thanksgiving to the Father. The message highlights the surpassing greatness of God's power displayed in creation, deliverance, and the resurrection of Jesus Christ, resulting in moral wealth treasured up by God for His glory.
The Roman-Grecian World
By Harris Franklin Rall0ACT 17:26ROM 1:161CO 1:22GAL 3:28COL 3:11Harris Franklin Rall delves into the historical context of Christianity, emphasizing the convergence of the Roman, Grecian, and Jewish worlds during the time of Jesus and Paul. The Roman world under Augustus's reign was marked by peace, prosperity, and extensive travel, yet the common people suffered under the weight of slavery and exploitation. The Grecian world contributed language, philosophy, and culture to the Roman empire, providing a fertile ground for the spread of Christianity. Additionally, the mystery religions from the east, with their stories of life, death, and resurrection of gods, emerged as competitors to Christianity, but lacked the ethical salvation and historic foundation that Christianity offered.
Gathering or Scattering
By G. Campbell Morgan0The Call to GatherUnity in ChristMAT 12:30JHN 11:52JHN 17:21ACT 17:26ROM 12:101CO 1:10GAL 5:15EPH 4:3HEB 10:24JAS 3:18G. Campbell Morgan emphasizes the critical choice every individual faces: to gather with Christ or scatter against Him. He reflects on the dangers of indifference in a tolerant society, contrasting the purity of the persecuted Church with the compromises of a patronized Church. Morgan asserts that Jesus' mission was to gather the scattered children of God, and he challenges listeners to evaluate their influence—whether they are contributing to unity or division. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to actively participate in Christ's work of gathering, urging believers to take sides and live out their faith in a way that draws others to Him.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Hath made of one blood - In AB, some others, with the Coptic, Ethiopic, Vulgate, Itala, Clement, and Bede, the word αἱματος, blood, is omitted. He hath made of one (meaning Adam) all nations of men; but αἱμα, blood, is often used by the best writers for race, stock, kindred: so Homer, Iliad, vi. ver. 211: Ταυτης τοι γενεης τε και αἱματος ευχομαι ειναι. I glory in being of that same race and blood. So Virgil, Aen. viii. ver. 142, says; Sic genus amborum scindit se Sanguine ab uno. Thus, from one stock, do both our stems divide. See many examples of this form in Kypke. The Athenians had a foolish notion that they were self-produced, and were the aboriginals of mankind. Lucian ridicules this opinion, Αθηναιοι φασι τους πρωτους ανθρωπους εκ της Αττικης αναφυναι, καθαπερ τα λαχανα. The Athenians say that the first men sprung up in Attica, like radishes. Luc. Philo-pseud. 3. To dwell on all the face of the earth - God in his wisdom produced the whole human race from one man; and, having in his providence scattered them over the face of the earth, by showing them that they sprang from one common source, has precluded all those contentious wars and bloodshed which would necessarily have taken place among the nations of the world, as each in its folly might have arrogated to itself a higher and more excellent origin than another. And hath determined the times before appointed - Instead of προτεταγμενους καιρους, the times before appointed, ABDE, and more than forty others, with both the Syriac, all the Arabic, the Coptic, Ethiopic, MS. Slavonian, Vulgate, and Itala, read προστεταγμενους καιρους, the appointed times. The difference between the two words is this: προτασσειν signifies to place before others; but προστασσειν is to command, decree, appoint. The προστεταγμενοι καιροι, are the constituted or decreed times; that is, the times appointed by his providence, on which the several families should go to those countries where his wisdom designed they should dwell. See Genesis 10:5-32; and see Pearce and Rosenmuller. And the bounds of their habitations - Every family being appointed to a particular place, that their posterity might possess it for the purposes for which infinite wisdom and goodness gave them their being, and the place of their abode. Every nation had its lot thus appointed by God, as truly as the Israelites had the land of Canaan. But the removal of the Jews from their own land shows that a people may forfeit their original inheritance, and thus the Canaanites have been supplanted by the Jews; the Jews by the Saracens; the Saracens by the Turks; the Greeks by the Romans; the Romans by the Goths and Vandals; and so of others. See the notes on Genesis 11:1-32 (note).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
and hath made of one blood all nations of men to dwell on all the face of the earth--Holding with the Old Testament teaching, that in the blood is the life (Gen 9:4; Lev 17:11; Deu 12:23), the apostle sees this life stream of the whole human race to be one, flowing from one source [BAUMGARTEN]. and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation--The apostle here opposes both Stoical Fate and Epicurean Chance, ascribing the periods and localities in which men and nations flourish to the sovereign will and prearrangements of a living God.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And hath made of one blood,.... That is, of one man's blood; the Vulgate Latin version reads, "of one"; and the Arabic version of De Dieu reads, "of one man"; of Adam, the first parent of all mankind, and who had the blood of all men in his veins: hence the Jews (u) say, "the first man was , "the blood of the world";'' and this by propagation has been derived from him, and communicated to all mankind. They also say (w), that "the reason why man was created alone (or there was but one man created) was, on account of families, that they might not be stirred up one against another;'' that is, strive and contend with one another about pre-eminence: and they add, "that the righteous might not say we are the sons of the righteous, and ye are the sons of the wicked.'' And it is a certain truth that follows upon this, that no man has any reason to vaunt over another, and boast of his blood and family; and as little reason have any to have any dependence upon their being the children of believers, or to distinguish themselves from others, and reject them as the children of unbelievers, when all belong to one family, and are of one man's blood, whether Adam or Noah: of whom are all nations of men, for to dwell on all the face of the earth; for from Adam sprung a race of men, which multiplied on the face of the earth, and peopled the world before the flood; these being destroyed by the flood, and Noah and his family saved, his descendants were scattered all over the earth, and repeopled it: and this is the original of all the nations of men, and of all the inhabitants of the earth; and stands opposed to the fabulous accounts of the Heathens, which the apostle might have in his view, that men at first grew up out of the earth, or after the flood were formed of stones, which Deucalion and Prometheus threw over their heads; and particularly the Athenians boasted that they sprung out of the earth, which Diogenes ridiculed as common with mice and worms. But the apostle ascribes all to one blood: and hath determined the times before appointed; how long the world he has made shall continue; and the several distinct periods, ages, and generations, in which such and such men should live, such and such nations should exist, and such monarchies should be in being, as the Assyrian, Persian, Grecian, and Roman, and how long they should subsist; as also the several seasons of the year, as seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, and day and night; and which are so bounded, and kept so distinct in their revolutions, as not to interfere with, and encroach upon each other; and likewise the several years, months, and days of every man's life; see Job 7:1 to which may be added, the times of the law and Gospel; the time of Christ's birth and death; the time of the conversion of particular persons; and all their times of desertion, temptation, affliction, and comfort; the times of the church's sufferings, both under Rome Pagan and Rome Papal; of the holy city being trodden under foot, of the witnesses prophesying in sackcloth, and of their being killed, and their bodies lying unburied, and of their resurrection and ascension to heaven, Rev 2:10 Rev 11:12 the time of antichrist's reign and ruin, Rev 13:5 and of Christ's personal coming, and the day of judgment, Ti1 6:15 and of his reign on earth for a thousand years, Rev 20:4. All these are appointed times, and determined by the Creator and Governor of the world: and the bounds of their habitation; where men shall dwell, and how long they shall continue there the age or distinct period of time, in which every man was, or is to come into the world, is fixed and determined by God; nor can, nor does anyone come into the world sooner or later than that time; and also the particular country, city, town, and spot of ground where he shall dwell; and the term of time how long he shall dwell there, and then remove to another place, or be removed by death. And to this agrees the Ethiopic version, which renders the whole thus, "and hath appointed his times, and his years, how long they shall dwell"; see Deu 32:8 to which the apostle seems to refer. (u) Caphtor, fol. 37. 2. (w) T. Hieros. Sanhedrin, fol. 22. 2.