FEB. 22: JESUS SHARED

How many of us have feared speaking in front of a group at some point in our lives? Whether it was a class project, a work presentation, or even teaching a Sunday school class, speaking in front of others can cause our heart rate to spike. Yet when it comes to proclaiming the gospel, we can be confident—not in ourselves, but in the strength of the Lord. For it is not ultimately us who speak, but God’s Word. The gospel speaks to every culture, every time, and every place.

Paul spent time exploring the city of Athens, and while he was there, he was impressed and intrigued—but most of all, deeply distressed. He was even angered by the city’s widespread disregard for the one true God, made evident by the countless idols scattered throughout the city. The marketplace was full of idols devoted to every imaginable god. This deeply troubled the upright man of God.

As was customary for Paul, he did not ignore what he saw. Instead, he allowed the Lord to work through him. He began in the synagogue, where people were searching for truth. Paul did not simply deliver a sermon; he engaged in discussion. He reasoned with those present, explaining the validity of Christ and the truth of the gospel. Two philosophical groups—the Epicureans and the Stoics—began to debate with him. Though these groups stood on opposite ends of the philosophical spectrum, they were united in their opposition to Paul. Still, he continued to proclaim the truth. Intrigued, some invited him to the Areopagus for further conversation.

Paul seized this opportunity to make much of Jesus among people who relied on their own merits for salvation. Respectfully, he reasoned with them using their own gods and idols as points of reference. 

While some might have avoided these topics, Paul ran toward them. He engaged the culture through the lens of the gospel rather than retreating from difficult conversations.

Are we comfortable doing the same? Are we willing to share the gospel using elements of our world and compare them to the truths of God? Are we confident that we could do that? To do so, we do not need to study the world as much as we need to study the Word. We should pray and ask the Lord to reveal the riches found in Scripture and to help us see how everything else pales in comparison. Nothing is equal. Nothing is as valuable. Lord, help us to see the riches of Your Word.

As Paul concludes his address, his listeners recognize that he views religion very differently than they do. He does not see it as a means to earn salvation. According to Paul, their religion is empty. He shows them that everything they are striving to earn has already been accomplished through Christ.

In his conclusion, Paul leaves no ambiguity. He does not call them to do more, but to repent. Their ignorance is no longer an excuse—they have heard the truth about Jesus and must respond to it. 

Paul offers them the only thing of true value: repentance. We must wrestle with that same truth today. We cannot do enough to earn God’s approval. Salvation is found only through Christ and what He has already done. B&R