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Acts-17

On Mars Hill: A Devotional Study on Acts 17​

Introduction​

The story of Paul's encounter with the people of Athens in Acts 17 is a memorable one. It showcases the persistence, creativity, and passion of the apostle Paul as he proclaims the gospel to a grateful but diverse audience. As we delve into Acts 17, let's explore the spiritual insights and practical applications embedded in this sweeping narrative.

Section 1: The Areopagus Council (Acts 17:16-2l)​

Devotional Thought: Paul's encounter with the people of Athens is a story of cultural sensitivity and relational gospel engagement. Paul's quote from a Stoic poet reveals his insight and understanding of the philosophical and religious zeitgeist of the Athenian landscape. Today, let's reflect on the importance of cultural sensitivity and relational gospel engagement in sharing the gospel.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can we better understand the cultural and religious landscape of our community?
  • In what ways can we make our gospel engagement more relational and less dogmatic?

Section 2: The Unknown God (Acts 17:22-28)​

Devotional Thought: Paul's message to the Athenians began with recognition and reverence for the "Unknown God." Paul's statement illustrates his cultural sensitivity and his ability to build a bridge or rapport with this diverse audience. Let's reflect on the importance of acknowledging and respecting the spiritual beliefs of others and how we can bridge the gap between them and biblical truth.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can we better understand the spiritual landscape of our community?
  • In what ways can we build bridges to connect the truths of Scripture with the spiritual beliefs of others?

Section 3: The Resurrected Christ (Acts 17:29-31)​

Devotional Thought: Paul's message concludes with proclamation of Jesus Christ as the resurrected King. This finishing touch on Paul's message reveals the persistence and passion of Paul in sharing the Good News. Let's reflect on the importance of persistence and passion in sharing the gospel and the resurrected truth of Christ's victory over sin and death.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can we better understand the importance of persistence and passion in sharing the gospel?
  • In what ways can we cultivate persistence and passion in our evangelism efforts?

Section 4: A Divided Response (Acts 17:32-34)​

Devotional Thought: Paul's message results in a divided response from the Athenians. Some ridiculed and dismissed Paul's message, while others responded with eagerness to hear more. Both responses illustrate the complex and varied nature of spiritual engagement and evangelism. Let's reflect on how we can adapt our message and our approach to better suit the diverse responses we receive.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can we better understand and adapt to the diverse spiritual responses we receive?
  • In what ways can we approach evangelism with adaptability and sensitivity?

Conclusion:​

As we conclude our devotional study on Acts 17, let's stand in awe of Paul's persistence, creativity, and passion as he shares the gospel in the heart of Athens. May we learn from Paul's example and approach evangelism in our own communities with cultural sensitivity, relational engagement, and passion for the Good News of Jesus Christ.