Paul Preaches in Athens
The sixth sermon in the book of Acts: Acts 17:16-34 (specifically Acts 17:22-31). This one is to the people of Athens.
Setting: In Athens, a meeting at the Areopagus
Speaker: Paul
Audience: The people of Athens (non-Jews)
Preceding Events: The Epicurean and Stoic philosophers, who were debating with Paul about his teaching, took him to a meeting at the Areopagus.
Overall Theme: We are offspring of the creator-God.
Scripture Quoted: Paul did not quote from the Old Testament, but did reference philosophers with whom the audience would be familiar.
Central Teaching: God wants everyone to repent (that is, to turn from their current ways of doing things and follow him).
Subsequent Events: Some sneered at his teaching, while others wanted to hear more, and some believed.
Key Lesson: The message of Jesus can be offensive to some (see Jeremiah 6:10).
This post is from the series “Sermons in the book of Acts.” Read about sermon #5 or sermon #7.
Read more about the book of Acts in Tongues of Fire: 40 Devotional Insights for Today’s Church from the Book of Acts, available in e-book, paperback, and hardcover.
Peter DeHaan writes about biblical Christianity to confront status quo religion and live a life that matters. He seeks a fresh approach to following Jesus through the lens of Scripture, without the baggage of made-up traditions and meaningless practices.
Read more in his books, blog, and weekly email updates.