The text about Paul introducing a new God in Athens in Acts 17:24–27 shows how skillfully the apostle sought a new approach to people who were already in some way concerned with spirituality. Here are some aspects of Paul’s approach:

1. Acknowledgment and Praise: Paul began by acknowledging the present spiritual awareness and sincerity of the people in Athens. This created a positive atmosphere and showed respect for their quest for the spiritual, even if they worshiped an unknown God.

2. Study of their Religion: Paul demonstrated that he had studied their faith and found aspects in that study that he respected. This illustrated that he took their beliefs seriously and endeavored to understand their perspective before conveying his message.

3. Sharing of Insights: Paul shared something about their own religion that they admitted not understanding. This showed that he wasn’t simply criticizing their beliefs but was trying to share knowledge and explain.

4. Introduction of a New God: Paul led the people to the concept of a Creator God who does not dwell in a temple and does not require human needs but cares for the needs of people. This was a transformative idea that set apart from Greek mythology and presented a God of love.

5. The Possibility of Knowing God: Paul emphasized that the unknown God he introduced can indeed be known. This emphasis on accessibility and God’s desire for knowledge could establish a deeper connection.

6. Warning of Rejection: Paul concluded his speech with a warning about the consequences of rejecting this unknown God. This shows that he not only presented positive aspects but also pointed to the responsibility of people to accept the knowledge of God.

Overall, this section shows how Paul approached with sensitivity and respect to establish a connection with people and gradually lead them to a deeper understanding of faith. His approach relied on appreciation, study, sharing of knowledge, and the introduction of a God who allows love and knowledge.

Note Paul’s reference to the created world and God as the Creator (see also Romans 1:18–25). Why is this a very good approach for most people, at least initially? What in the created world points so powerfully to God?

Paul’s emphasis on the created world and God as the Creator is a powerful approach, especially initially, for several reasons:

1. Universal Experience: The created world is something everyone can experience. Regardless of one’s background or belief, nature is omnipresent and can be perceived by everyone. This creates a universal experience that forms a common starting point for many people.

2. Simplicity and Accessibility: The beauty and complexity of nature are easily accessible and do not require special knowledge. This makes the approach understandable and appealing to people of different educational levels and backgrounds.

3. Transcendence and Order: Creation points to transcendence and order. The breathtaking beauty and precise laws of nature inspire many people to seek a higher purpose or a Creator who designed this order.

4. Immutable Testimonies: Nature provides immutable testimonies to God’s creation. Unlike human-made things, creation remains largely untouched by human influence, making it a reliable witness to God’s creative power.

5. Spiritual Longing: Many people feel a spiritual longing when contemplating the beauty of nature. The diversity of landscapes, the depths of the ocean, the vastness of the sky can evoke a sense of awe and transcendence, prompting a search for a higher purpose.

6. Connection to Moral Values: Creation often points to moral values such as love, harmony, and environmental protection. These values can inspire people to seek a divine origin for such principles.

In Romans 1:18–25, Paul emphasizes that people can understand God’s invisible qualities through creation. The hints of God in the created world have strong persuasive power as they point to the existence of an intelligent Creator who shaped the world with wisdom and purpose.

Overall, focusing on the created world provides a common starting point for conversations about faith, allows an intuitive connection to spiritual questions, and highlights the power and beauty of the Creator.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-10-mission-to-the-unreached-part-1-10-4-introducing-a-new-god/

Dear Readers,

At the heart of Job’s suffering, we find his friends who gathered to mourn with him in the face of his heavy fate. The Bible describes how they initially sat in silence, overwhelmed by the tragedy unfolding before them. However, when Job finally broke the silence and voiced his complaints, they had many words of advice and supposed wisdom.

Eliphaz, one of Job’s friends, revealed in his words a questionable theology and a shocking lack of empathy. His words could serve as an introduction to a book on grief counseling titled, “What Not to Say to a Grieving Person.” Instead of being compassionate, Eliphaz seemed to prioritize theological clarity over empathetic comfort.

The essence of Eliphaz’s statements could be understood as follows: The sufferings experienced by Job were a result of his supposed guilt because God is just, and only the wicked would undergo such suffering.

We can imagine how unconsoling such words are for someone in profound grief. Similar to telling an accident victim that they deserve the punishment for their mistakes, Eliphaz’s advice is marked by a lack of empathy and a failure to understand the complexity of human suffering.

In our own experiences of offering comfort, let us remember how empathetic words and supportive gestures can make a difference. Let us learn from these experiences to better respond to others in times of grief.

May our compassion run deeper than mere words, and may our readiness to console transcend theological considerations so that we can truly offer support and love.

Loving God,

We come to you with hearts yearning for comfort in the midst of sorrow. We think of Job and his friends as they mourned together and exchanged words. In these moments of pain, we recognize the importance of compassion and empathy.

Help us respond lovingly and empathetically to the needs of those grappling with grief. Let us learn from Job’s story that not all advice and words of comfort are helpful. May our support go beyond words and be guided by the power of your love.

We pray for those who are suffering today, whether through loss, pain, or tragedies. May they experience the embracing presence of your comfort. Grant us wisdom as we attempt to offer solace, and open our hearts to the deep needs of our fellow human beings.

In these moments of silence, we entrust all our thoughts, feelings, and concerns to you, knowing that you are a God of comfort and love.

In the name of your son Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/the-curse-causeless-comfort-woven-wisdom-compassionate-reflections-on-the-story-of-job-who-has-ever-perished-being-innocent/

The text about Paul and the unknown God in Acts 17:22–23 emphasizes Paul’s wise approach to reach the people in Athens with the Gospel. It shows how he did not condemn the false religion of the Athenians immediately but instead highlighted the positive aspects of their devotion to build a bridge for the Gospel.

The fact that Paul complimented the pagans and praised their dedication to the gods is noteworthy. He did not immediately criticize their false gods but sought common ground and praised their religious devotion. This demonstrates a respectful attitude and an understanding of the people to whom he wanted to bring the Gospel.

Paul did not present himself as a self-proclaimed expert with all the answers but as someone who cares for people and their well-being. This approach allowed him to establish a connection and be perceived as someone concerned about the interests of the people.

The mention of the inscription “TO THE UNKNOWN GOD” shows Paul’s skill in finding commonalities and opening a dialogue. He did not mock their concept of an unknown God but used it as a starting point for a deeper conversation about the true God.

The emphasis that Paul recognized the Holy Spirit could work with the material available highlights the importance of meeting people where they are. Instead of immediately correcting false beliefs, Paul laid a foundation for understanding and further dialogue.

Overall, this text shows how important it is to have a respectful and empathetic approach in evangelism. Praising positive aspects, finding common ground, and opening topics of conversation that pique interest are crucial elements to effectively share the Gospel in different contexts.

What bridges and points of contact come to mind that could open up opportunities for deeper conversation with people you encounter?

Here are some approaches:

1. Shared Interests: Identify common hobbies, interests, or passions. Whether it’s books, movies, sports, music, or other activities, common interests create a foundation for deeper conversation.

2. Current Events: Discuss current events or topics relevant in the news or society. This allows for exchanging opinions and perspectives, creating connections based on shared or contrasting views.

3. Personal Stories: Share personal experiences or stories. Sharing your own experiences can lead others to open up and share their stories, creating an atmosphere of trust and authenticity.

4. Cultural References: Find cultural references, whether through shared cultural backgrounds, food, travel, or cultural events. This allows for discussing cultural differences and promoting understanding.

5. Future Plans and Dreams: Talk about future plans, dreams, and goals. This can lead to discussions about values, hopes, and desires, leading to deeper conversations.

6. Shared Challenges: Discuss challenges that many people face, whether in work, relationships, or personally. Sharing challenges creates empathy and understanding for each other.

7. Philosophical Questions: Pose philosophical or life philosophy questions. Discussions about the meaning of life, morality, ethics, and other philosophical topics can lead to deeper reflections.

8. Faith Questions: If appropriate, talk about spiritual or religious topics. This opens the opportunity to discuss faith, values, and worldviews.

It’s important to note that creating bridges and points of contact should be based on respect, openness, and empathy. The key is to find a common ground where authentic and meaningful conversations can emerge.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-10-mission-to-the-unreached-part-1-10-3-paul-and-the-unknown-god/

Dear Readers,

As we continue to navigate the deep waters of the Book of Job, the focus now shifts to Job’s companions in Lesson 6. In this lesson, we aim to consider not only Job’s perspective but also that of his grieving companions. We are faced with the challenge of empathizing not only with the suffering but also with those seeking to provide comfort.

The quote from Job 4:17 poses a central question: How can a human be righteous before God? Given Job’s unfathomable suffering, this question seems even more urgent. However, it also echoes in the minds of the companions who attempt to find an answer in this puzzle of human existence and suffering.

We have all experienced moments when we searched for the right words to reach grieving hearts. Job’s companions face the same challenge, and significant portions of the Book of Job consist of dialogues between Job and these friends.

In the upcoming posts, we will delve into the conversations between Job and his companions. We will explore their theological considerations, their efforts to make sense, and their reactions to Job’s suffering.

Let us step into the shoes of Job’s companions together and try to find light in this search for meaning in an seemingly broken world. May this journey help us understand not only Job but also the deeper layers of our own compassion and quest for meaning.

Heavenly Father,

We thank you for the opportunity to delve deep into the Book of Job, reflecting on the challenges, questions, and suffering presented therein. We think of Job’s companions who endeavored to find meaning amid uncertainty.

Bless us on our journey of understanding and empathy. May our contemplation of human experience, pain, and the search for meaning serve to open our hearts and strengthen our community. Teach us to bring light into the shadows of uncertainty and to offer comfort and hope to one another.

We trust that You, O Lord, accompany us on this path and grant us the wisdom we need to understand life’s profound questions. May Your peace rest in our hearts and empower us to encounter each other in love.

In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/the-curse-causeless-in-the-shadow-of-uncertainty-jobs-companions-and-the-search-for-meaning-the-big-questions/

The text about Paul on the Areopagus from the Acts of the Apostles 17:18–21 emphasizes the apostle’s ability to adapt to different contexts and intelligently preach the Gospel. The commentary highlights that wherever Paul was, he consistently proclaimed the Gospel in accordance with his divine mission.

The reactions of the pagans on the marketplace in Athens are described as diverse. The mention of “foreign gods” indicates that Paul attracted people’s attention. The transition to the Areopagus, a place for legal and religious matters, shows that Paul’s message was considered so important that they wanted to give him a hearing, even if it wasn’t necessarily a trial.

Luke’s emphasis on the fact that the Athenians enjoyed discussing and listening to new ideas is interpreted as an acknowledgment of their intellectual curiosity. The commentary suggests that Luke is not accusing the Athenians of laziness but rather pointing to their experience as seasoned thinkers and debaters.

Particularly interesting is the observation that although Paul expected the Holy Spirit to use his formal education under Gamaliel in Athens, he was, in reality, further educated on the streets of Athens. The text emphasizes how the apostle, with a deep knowledge of Athenian art, literature, and religion, astounded the “intellectuals” among his listeners.

Overall, Paul is portrayed as a skillful preacher who not only preached the Gospel but was also able to adapt to the cultural and intellectual backgrounds of his audience. This provides an inspiring lesson for modern believers who want to share the Gospel in various contexts.

After Paul’s experience in Athens with these pagans and philosophers, he wrote to the Corinthians: “For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ, and him crucified” (1 Corinthians 2:2). What lesson can we draw from this, that Christ must be at the center of our message, regardless of whom we are preaching to?

The lesson that can be drawn from Paul’s statement in 1 Corinthians 2:2 emphasizes the central importance of Jesus Christ in the Christian message, regardless of the audience being addressed. Here are some key aspects of this lesson:

1. Christ as the Center: The message of Jesus Christ and His crucifixion should be at the core of our proclamation. Paul makes it clear that he desired to know nothing else among the Corinthians except Jesus Christ, the Crucified. This underscores the fundamental significance of the redemptive work on the cross for the Christian message.

2. Universality of the Message: Paul’s statement underscores the universality of the message of Christ. Regardless of the cultural, intellectual, or religious background of the listeners, Christ remains the central focus. This demonstrates that the message of the Gospel is relevant to all people.

3. Abandoning Human Wisdom: Paul highlights that he consciously chose not to speak extensively about worldly wisdom or philosophical speculations. This doesn’t mean that intellectual engagement is unimportant, but it should not displace the central place of Christ in the message.

4. Power of the Cross: Focusing on Christ, the Crucified, emphasizes the transformative power of the cross. It is not merely a historical event but the heart of the Christian doctrine of redemption, love, and grace.

5. Adaptability of the Message: Regardless of whether Paul was preaching to pagans, philosophers, or other groups, the message remained essentially the same. This teaches us that the central message of the Gospel does not change, even though the manner of presentation can be adapted to consider the needs and contexts of our listeners.

In summary, Paul’s lesson reminds us that the power of the Gospel lies in the person and work of Christ. When we preach, it is crucial that Christ is at the center, and the message of His cross forms the foundation of our proclamation.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-10-mission-to-the-unreached-part-1-10-2-paul-in-the-areopagus/