And Barnabas they called Zeus, and Paul, Hermes, because he was the chief speaker.

1. Zeus (or Jupiter) - Zeus is the Greek god, Jupiter was the Roman god. Both are known as the god of helps. How fitting! Barnabas was the encourager, the son of encouragement.

2. Hermes (or Mercury) - Hermes is the Greek god, Mercury is the Roman god. Hermes is the "herald god", the god of speech and announcements. Again, How fitting! Paul is now the herald of the gospel as he speaks in markets and synagogues. Luke explains that Paul is the "chief speaker."

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Old Testament