Introduction of the message

“Men of Athens, I see that you are very religious in all respects.” (1) This is an example of a message addressed to intellectual Gentiles. They were unfamiliar with the Old Testament, yet highly intellectual and philosophical. (2) The speaker must first find a common ground with the audience. (a) Here, neither the Hebrew Scriptures nor monotheism could serve as a connection. (b) Paul chose to connect by acknowledging the Athenians’ “religious devotion.” (c) Paul began by complimenting the audience. He was careful not to insult or anger them, showing great sensitivity. (3) “Very religious” is translated from the Greek word “deisidaimonesteros.” This word can mean having more reverence for gods than the average person, but it can also imply being highly superstitious. Its original meaning is “fearful of evil spirits.” Paul intentionally uses this term ambiguously. If he were outright praising their religious devotion, it would be disingenuous; if he were openly condemning their idolatry, it might close their hearts to his message. “For while I was passing through and examining the objects of your worship, I also found an altar with this inscription, ‘TO AN UNKNOWN GOD’…” (1) As Paul walked through the city, he observed what the Athenians worshiped. (a) He refrains from using the word “idol” (eidolon), (b) instead, he uses the term “objects of worship” (sebasma). (2) He found an altar inscribed with “To an Unknown God.” (a) The concept of an “unknown god” serves as a point of connection for communication. (b) Such altars were scattered throughout the city. (c) The Athenians, aware of their own ignorance, acknowledged that there might be gods they were not honoring. To avoid incurring the wrath of these gods, they erected altars (much like an insurance policy). (3) Paul proceeds under the premise that this practice is not incorrect. (a) Indeed, there is a God whom they worship unknowingly. (b) He expresses a desire to teach them about this God. (c) This approach allowed Paul to avoid accusations of illegally spreading a new religion. (d) Paul’s method reflects the teaching style of Jewish rabbis, moving from the “known” (the fact of worshipping) to the “unknown” (the Unknown God). The lessons to be learned from this passage are threefold: (1) Seek a common ground for dialogue. (2) Speak in terms that the listener can understand. (3) Show respect to the listener, without looking down on them.