It’s All Greek to Them

Paul finds himself in Athens with much to say to the local philosophers about their system of beliefs.

Read: Acts 17:15-20(NLT)

Explore the Theme: The apostle Paul’s spirit is stirred over the idolatry in Athens. Paul responds to this stirring by sharing the truth of the gospel. He isn’t just an observer of what is not right; he acts to offer solutions to the problems he sees. Stand for a moment in Paul’s shoes. What might he have experienced as he observed a clear problem and then moved forward to work to bring change?

Ask God: How do you feel as you think about talking to others about Jesus? Do you feel you need to be a biblical scholar before you attempt to share the gospel? It can be unnerving to think about being rejected when approaching people to share God’s word. Take those fears now to God in prayer. Ask him to help you not to fear rejection and for encouragement -- especially the encouragement that his word does not return void even if it appears to fall upon deaf ears, that he can use every seed planted in every human heart. Are you willing to work with God to plant seeds of life-transforming truths? Talk to him about that now in prayer.

Live it Out: Once again, we see Paul looking for opportunities to spread the gospel, even in a place that appears completely devoid of God. Our culture values comfort and ease whereas God values taking risks to save souls. Take today to think a few things through: are you willing to challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone? Take some time to think about what you would share. Would you want to share something big or something small about what God has done in your life?