Who were the ancient Greeks that are spoken of in the Bible?

The Bible mentions the ancient Greeks in several places, particularly in the New Testament. But who were these Greeks exactly, and what was their significance in biblical times?

The ancient Greeks were a civilization that lived in the region of Greece and nearby areas from around the 8th century BCE to the 4th century CE. They were known for their advancements in philosophy, art, language, and politics, and their influence can still be felt in many aspects of modern Western culture.

In the New Testament, the Greeks are often referred to as Gentiles, which refers to non-Jewish people. This is because the Greeks were not part of the Jewish community that was the primary audience for the Old Testament. The Greeks were part of the wider Greco-Roman world that interacted with the Jewish people during the time of the New Testament.

One important figure in the New Testament who interacted with the Greeks was the apostle Paul. Paul was a Jew who had been educated in Greek culture and language, which gave him a unique perspective on bridging the gap between the Jewish and Gentile worlds. He traveled extensively throughout the Mediterranean region, preaching the message of Jesus Christ to both Jews and Gentiles.

In Acts 17, Paul visits Athens, which was a major center of Greek culture and philosophy. He engages in debates with the Athenians, using their own philosophical concepts to explain the message of Christ. This passage highlights the cultural exchange that was happening between the Jewish and Greek worlds during this time.