How can Acts 14:12 guide us in witnessing to non-believers?

Setting the Scene

“Barnabas they called Zeus, and Paul they called Hermes, because he was the chief speaker.” (Acts 14:12)

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What the Crowd Saw

• A dramatic miracle (vv. 8-10)

• Two unfamiliar strangers

• A need to fit what they witnessed into their own religious framework

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Key Witnessing Insights from Acts 14:12

• Expect cultural misreads

– People may interpret the gospel through the lens they already know.

• Clarify identity and allegiance

– Paul and Barnabas immediately redirected attention away from themselves (vv. 14-15).

• Guard against misplaced glory

– Isaiah 42:8: “I will not give My glory to another.”

• Lead with clear speech

– Acts 14:12 notes Paul was “the chief speaker”; articulate truth plainly (1 Corinthians 2:2).

• Build bridges, then confront error

– They began with common experience (“the living God, who made heaven and earth,” v. 15) before calling the crowd to turn from idols.

• Keep the focus on the risen Christ, not the messenger

– Matthew 5:16: “Let your light shine… and glorify your Father in heaven.”

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Living Out These Insights Today

• Learn the worldview of your audience; listen before you speak.

• Anticipate and correct misunderstandings quickly, graciously.

• Use everyday language that points to the Creator rather than Christian jargon.

• Celebrate any interest shown, but firmly redirect praise to Jesus.

• Remember that miraculous answers to prayer can open doors, yet Scripture must interpret the experience.

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Scripture Reinforcements

• Acts 14:15-17 — Paul’s model response.

• 1 Corinthians 1:23-24 — Christ-centered proclamation.

• 2 Corinthians 4:5 — “For we do not preach ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord.”