Acts 17:29-34
29 Therefore, since we are the descendants of God, we ought not to think that the Divine Nature is like gold or silver or stone, an image formed by human skill and thought.
30 So having overlooked the times of ignorance, God is now proclaiming to mankind that all people everywhere are to repent,
31 because He has set a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness through a Man whom He has appointed, having furnished proof to all people by raising Him from the dead.”
32 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.”
33 So Paul went out from among them.
34 But some men joined him and believed, among whom also were Dionysius the Areopagite and a woman named Damaris, and others with them.
Athenian Evangelism (9)
The lessons to learn from the Athenian evangelism
Before moving forward, let’s review the lessons learned from Paul’s ministry in Athens.
(1) Focus on preparing yourself, not just the message.
Looking back, much of Paul’s message delivery was spontaneous. (a) He preached by the riverside, in the marketplace, and at the Areopagus. (b) In Athens, he did not limit gospel-sharing opportunities to specific settings. (c) He did not have the time to formally prepare a message. (d) Yet, he kept himself ready to share the gospel at any moment.
(2) Speak the essence of the gospel.
Paul began with a harmonious introduction but ultimately conveyed the core of the gospel. John 16:8 says, “And He, when He comes, will convict the world regarding sin, and righteousness, and judgment.” Paul’s message reflected this exactly: (a) the sin of idolatry (v 29), (b) righteousness (v 31), and (c) judgment (v 31): “Because He has set a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness through a Man whom He has appointed, having furnished proof to all people by raising Him from the dead.” It is not true evangelism if it does not reach the point of proclaiming the core of the gospel.
(3) Recognize that the issue lies in the hearts of the listeners.
The fact that few responded does not mean there was a problem with Paul’s message. (a) The issue lies within the hearts of the listeners. (b) The Athenians enjoyed debating but were reluctant to take action. (c) When the core of the gospel is spoken, those who are meant to be saved will come forth. This is the work of God Himself.
(4) Give thanks to God for being able to move to the next town without persecution.
Athens was the first town Paul could leave without facing persecution. Luke does not record whether a church was established in Athens, but from the 2nd to the 4th century, the Athenian church produced many leaders. The seeds Paul planted grew significantly. Our task is to faithfully proclaim the gospel and leave the results to God. Blessed is the one who has the assurance of pleasing God. Let us thank God for the opportunity to evangelize without persecution.
Today's prayer
Father God, I thank You that we are able to share the gospel freely today. Please help me, through the Holy Spirit, to proclaim the gospel faithfully. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.