“For in him we live, move, and have our being.” As some of your own poets have said, “For we are also his offspring.” Acts 17:28 WEB
In Areopagus, Paul speaks to philosophers about the Creator God and his closeness to man. He asserts that God wants a relationship with mankind. After all, in him we live. Further, Paul contends that the magnificence of God is so great that he cannot be represented in idols made by human hands.
The apostle speaks with people who have their own concept of a supreme being that is rooted in their philosophies and cultural practices. Understanding this, Paul meets them where they are. He then calls them to repentance, explaining the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Paul quotes the poets and thinkers of the region in order to find common ground and understanding. That is the origin of phrases like, “For in him we live,” and “For we are also his offspring.” He then uses logic and reason to appeal to the listeners. Quoting a stoic source that asserts mankind is the offspring of Zeus, Paul insists that it is illogical for offspring to create images of their supposed creator. He demonstrates that worshiping idols does not make sense even within the structure of their pagan belief system.
Called to Repent
After pointing out their sin and idolatry, Paul calls the crowd to repent. This is part of his ministry as he travels the coast of Greece. Along the way, some Jews and Gentiles repent and become Christian. The Epicurean and Stoic philosophers to which Paul spoke in Acts 17:28, were ultimately not converted. They would not believe in the resurrection of Jesus Christ as they did not believe in the possibility of life after death.
This interaction is a model for spreading the word and moving on afterward. God desires that we preach the gospel of Jesus everywhere on earth. He wants to give all of humanity the opportunity of salvation. Ultimately, it is true that in him we live. It is up to believers to spread the word, but it is the listener who decides whether to accept or reject the message.
As Jesus says in Matthew 10:14 concerning those who reject the word of God, “Whoever doesn’t receive you or hear your words, as you go out of that house or that city, shake the dust off your feet. WEB” When spreading the word, sometimes we win souls and sometimes we have to walk away.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for your holy word. Thank you for the foundation laid by Christ and the early church. In him we live. Help me to boldly spread the good news of the gospel. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: Wisdom from God
