Day 177

2 Kings 9:14–10:31; Acts 17:1-34; Psalm 144:1-15; Proverbs 17:27-28

IN TODAY’S READING of Paul’s second missionary journey in the book of Acts, we begin to see Paul’s style of adapting to his audience.

In Thessalonica, Paul spoke in the synagogue, persuasively opening the Scriptures and revealing that Jesus was part of the Jewish story and heritage. Many came to faith in Jesus. But opposition arrived in the form of jealousy (Acts 17:5). Another angry mob formed. Paul and Silas were forced to leave at night and move to the next city.

In Berea, Paul again shared the Good News in a synagogue. The Bereans reacted differently. They diligently searched the Scriptures to understand Paul’s message. Again, many came to faith in Jesus, until people from the previous city arrived to stir up trouble for Paul. And again, he was forced to move to the next city.

In Athens, the culture was open to new ideas (Acts 17:21). Rather than finding Jewish people, Paul spoke to whomever would listen, and his approach changed:

Men of Athens, I notice that you are very religious in every way, for as I was walking along I saw your many shrines. And one of your altars had this inscription on it: “To an Unknown God.” This God, whom you worship without knowing, is the one I’m telling you about.

Paul was comfortable opening the Scriptures with devout Jews, sharing the Good News one-on-one with a dungeon master, or simply entering a wildly diverse spiritual milieu and saying, “I have found what you’re looking for.” For Paul, the objective wasn’t winning a theological argument or bringing condemnation for sin. His objective was to discern the needs and posture of his audience. Only then could he invite people forward into eternal life.

There are many ways to share the gospel, and some of them require nothing more than a good ear for listening. As we continue in the great commission, let us be mindful that sharing the Good News isn’t about us —it’s about who we are interacting with. This was Jesus’ ministry style, and we will find no greater standard than that.

PRAYER:

Reach down from heaven and rescue me; rescue me from deep waters, from the power of my enemies.