Therefore since we are God’s offspring, we should not think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone—an image made by human design and skill. In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent. For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed. He has given proof of this to everyone by raising him from the dead.” Acts 17:29-31
The apostle Paul had been reasoning with the people of Athens about God, Jesus and the resurrection. He earned the right to speak in the forum where new ideas were discussed, namely, the areopagus. With great compassion, precision, and cultural relevance he preached to them a message of repentance. And it was effective! I love how Paul began his message with a backhanded compliment: I perceive you are very religious, for I even found a tribute to “the unknown god”. It is this god that I am telling you about. Genius! Then Paul hooks them at the end with a quote from one of their own poets who recognized “we are His offspring”, a perfect segue into Paul’s passionate plea for repentance and how to escape judgment.
How am I doing at communicating the gospel in a clear compelling manner?
God, today is another day to reach out and love people in Your name. Open the doors for conversations so that I might share Jesus, His story and the hope of the world and every soul. I thank You that You hear my prayers. Please answer yes to my recent ones for the physical healing of a friend named Jenna.
