In Acts 17:16-34, Paul makes a significant speech at the Areopagus in Athens, where he addresses the philosophers and leaders of the city. To establish his points regarding the creation of humans in the image of God and the forthcoming judgment by Jesus, Paul quotes from two of their own poets.
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He quotes Epimenides: “For in him we live and move and have our being” (Acts 17:28). This quote emphasizes the idea that God is the source of life and existence, resonating with the concept of humans created in God's image.
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He also quotes Aratus: “We are indeed his offspring” (Acts 17:28). This reference supports the belief that humanity is connected to God as His creations.
Paul uses these quotations to bridge the cultural context of his audience, demonstrating that their own literature acknowledges a relationship between humanity and the divine. Ultimately, he ties this into the message of repentance and the assurance of judgment through Jesus Christ, whom God raised from the dead (Acts 17:31).