The We Passages in the Book of Acts

Introduction

• The author of Acts uses the pronoun "we" in certain passages recounting the travels of Paul and his companions.
• These sections are known as the "we passages" and are found in Acts 16:10-17, 20:5-15, 21:1-8, and 27:1-28:16.
• Traditionally, it's believed that the author was part of Paul’s company during these journeys.

Scholarly Perspectives

• Some scholars question the assumption that Acts was authored by one of Paul’s companions.
• Arguments against traditional views:
  • Acts is anonymous.
  • The portrayal of Paul in Acts differs from his own letters.

Explanations of the "We Passages"

1. False Claim of Companionship

• Hypothesis: An anonymous author claims to have accompanied Paul to add credibility.
• Objection: Why not write pseudepigraphically under the name of a known companion?

2. Use of a Travel Diary Source

• Hypothesis: The author used a source, possibly a travel diary, without altering pronouns.
• Objection: The author of Acts makes changes in other sources, like Mark’s Gospel.

3. Literary Device

• Hypothesis: "We" is a literary tool to engage readers, making them feel present in the story.
• Objection: Inconsistency in usage; why not employ this device throughout?

Conclusion

• Most scholars conclude that the "we passages" should be understood straightforwardly.
• It is believed the author of Acts, who also wrote the Gospel of Luke, did accompany Paul on some journeys.

References

• Supplement to Introducing the New Testament, 2nd ed. by Mark Allan Powell, 2018.