Bible Dictionary
DISCOURSE
Discourse means reasoned conversation, discussion, or public speaking. In Acts it describes Paul’s reasoning and teaching among Jews and Gentiles.
Definition
Discourse means reasoned conversation, discussion, disputation, or public speaking. It may describe teaching or argument carried on through words and reasoning rather than simply a formal sermon.
Biblical Usage
In Acts, the word describes Paul’s reasoning and discussion among Jews and Gentiles. The Revised Version uses “discourse” in Acts 20:7,9 and “reasoning” in related passages where the context involves discussion or argument.
Historical Background
The term translates a Greek verb meaning to discuss or reason through matters. Depending on context, it may also be rendered “reason” or “dispute.”
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>dis-kors': In the Revised Version (British and American) of Ac 20:7,9, the translation of Greek dialegomai (the King James Version "preach"), elsewhere rendered, according to the implications of the context, "reason" or "dispute," as Ac 17:2; 19:9 (the King James Version "disputing," the Revised Version (British and American) "reasoning"); Jude 1:9.</p>