TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
When they heard about the resurrection of the dead, some of them sneered, but others said, “We want to hear you again on this subject.”… Some of the people became followers of Paul and believed.” Acts 17:32-34
Read: Acts 17:32-34
Listen: Acts 17
TODAY’S MESSAGE
In Acts 17, Paul makes a powerful presentation of the gospel to a group of thinkers and philosophers in Athens. It’s a culturally relevant speech as he speaks their “language.” It is everything you would want in a message about Jesus to those who don’t believe. But the response might not be what you’d expect. We read that some sneered, others wanted to hear more, and some became followers of Paul and believed.
We experience those same three responses today when we talk about Jesus. Some we speak to will sneer and dismiss us. They don’t want to hear and don’t want to listen no matter what we say. Others are open to ongoing discussion. They’re undecided and want to hear more. Finally, by the grace of God, some believe and become followers of Jesus! They experience his grace and mercy, and commit their lives to serving the One who gave his life for them.
Understanding these responses can give us freedom as we speak to others about Jesus. We have no control over the response of someone to the claims of Christ. It’s the difference between responsibility and results. We’re responsible to be faithful; God is responsible for the results.
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
Think about the last time you spoke with someone about the gospel. Did they sneer, offer to continue the conversation or believe? Regardless the outcome, thank God for the opportunity to talk about Jesus and pray for a gracious boldness the next time an opportunity presents itself.
Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.
