SUMMARY: Something new
OVERVIEW: Paul continued to travel, teaching about Jesus, including preaching to the people of Athens, the cultural center of the Roman world and a city filled with idols. Paul speaks to the Athenian council at the Areopagus—also known as Mars Hill—and skillfully tells them about Jesus.
BIG IDEA: Talk about God’s love in ways that make sense to the people around you.
KEY VERSE: Acts 17:16–17 (Paul able to minister in any setting)
While Paul was waiting for them in Athens, he was deeply troubled by all the idols he saw everywhere in the city. He went to the synagogue to reason with the Jews and the God-fearing Gentiles, and he spoke daily in the public square to all who happened to be there.
IF GOD WROTE YOU A LETTER
I am using you to speak something new into the lives of others. Those around you are consumed with work, hobbies, relationships, and all kinds of distractions. They discuss religion. They talk about the value of fitness. They argue over various philosophies. They listen to leadership lessons and success formulas. But I want you to bring them a new message.
Tell people who I am in your life. Let people know where they can find forgiveness, purpose, joy, and a life that matters. But before you speak, listen so you can show others that you understand where they are coming from and that you care about their search for truth. Let them know that I am the truth who set you free and trust me to work in the hearts of those who are ready. Wherever you go, remember many people need to hear something new. Don’t hold back. Be a voice of hope and encouragement to those who need good news.
NEXT STEP
Think about three people in your life who don’t follow Jesus. Perhaps they are family members, co-workers, classmates, friends, or teammates. See if you can identify their beliefs. Do they follow a religion? What do they worship? What do you think has shaped their views? Keep these things in mind as you look for ways to talk to them about what God is doing in your life.
LYRIC VIDEO