Acts 17:16-21
16 Now while Paul was waiting for them at Athens, his spirit was provoked within him as he saw that the city was full of idols. 17 So he reasoned in the synagogue with the Jews and the devout persons, and in the marketplace every day with those who happened to be there. 18 Some of the Epicurean and Stoic philosophers also conversed with him. And some said, “What does this babbler wish to say?” Others said, “He seems to be a preacher of foreign divinities”—because he was preaching Jesus and the resurrection. 19 And they took him and brought him to the Areopagus, saying, “May we know what this new teaching is that you are presenting? 20 For you bring some strange things to our ears. We wish to know therefore what these things mean.” 21 Now all the Athenians and the foreigners who lived there would spend their time in nothing except telling or hearing something new.
separation of what we believe vs what we do
- not just knowing but living it out
trend in society-negative view of church/christians
- stereotype: neg, mean, condescending
- society believes in a god but worships everything else
-- similar to athens...worship many idols
--- types of thought-stoic. epicurean...similarities to today?
--- test of devotion: how do i spend my time&money
paul was 'provoked'
- felt attacked not intimidated
where do we start ministry?
- find the committed christians
- dont fear admitting to his name
- understand that we will be criticized
-- paul called a babbler
- talk about christ anyways but be mindful of our manner
-- speak the truth but in grace/truth
-- dont sacrifice the truth for unbridled tolerance
-- be clear; know the truth ourselves
- look at the area we're in: jobs, friends, etc
- have a mission: patiently, respectfully explain truth
-- be gentle as they reject&counter your words
- know that it will take time
one person can change a society: Jesus
- we must be faithful as paul was
Live...don't just believe!
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