The conclusion (response to the message) (v 32-34)

“Now when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some began to scoff, but others said, ‘We shall hear from you again concerning this.’ So Paul went out from among them.” (1) Unfortunately, Paul’s message was interrupted. The Areopagus council had listened to his message up to this point. (a) God as the Creator (v 24–25), (b) mankind as His creation (v 26), (c) the relationship between God and humanity (v 27–28). (2) However, when Paul reached the invitation to repentance (v 29–31), they stopped listening. (a) The future judgment, and (b) the resurrection of the dead. These concepts went beyond what the Athenians were willing to accept. Some mocked, while others said, “We shall hear from you again concerning this,” a polite way of declining. (3) Thus, the hearing at the Areopagus was cut short. What Paul was teaching posed no threat to the Romans or Athenians. It was a completely new teaching and was simply intriguing. Therefore, the hearing was concluded. (4) Paul then left the Areopagus. No one questioned him further, nor did anyone detain him. Paul left the area and never returned to Athens again.

Evaluation of the Athenian evangelism

“But some men joined him and believed, among whom also were Dionysius the Areopagite and a woman named Damaris, and others with them.” (1) Let’s evaluate Paul’s ministry in Athens. (a) He did not reap a large harvest here. (b) However, a few individuals came to faith. (2) Some people chose to follow Paul and believed. (a) Dionysius, a member of the 30-member council of the Areopagus. (b) A woman named Damaris, a noblewoman, though no further information is provided. (c) Other individuals as well. Paul faithfully proclaimed the gospel, and the Lord raised up those who would respond to his message. This kind of faithfulness is what is required of a servant of Christ. Whether the harvest is plentiful or sparse is for God to decide. As for us, let us dedicate ourselves to speaking the word of truth.