Monday, January 28, 2008

Acts 17

In Thessalonica, Paul takes his usual approach and teaches at the local synagogue. Note that Greeks and women are prominent in his ministry. Again, however, some at the synagogue become jealous (notice how many times this happens – jealousy in church creating problems.)  Paul and Silas sneak into the night to avoid arrest and go to Berea.

The Bereans are more open-minded and embrace the Gospel more. But, not satisfied, the Thessalonians follow them to stir up crowds. Paul is whisked away to Athens while Silas and Timothy are helped locally.
In Athens, Paul waits for his friends. Paul doesn't like all the gods they have and the locals want to know more about his God. In a statement dripping with irony Paul notices how "religious" the Athenians are, what with all the gods. He then uses a "unknown god" inscription as a springboard to tell about Jesus. Paul had a way with using the local culture to start a conversation about Jesus and the Gospel. He also uses the kind of logic and proof that would appeal to them.

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