How can Acts 14:16 guide our response to those unaware of the Gospel? Reading the Verse “Acts 14:16: ‘In past generations He let all nations go their own way.’” What We Learn About God’s Approach to Unreached People • God’s sovereign patience—He allowed nations to live according to their choices for a season. • God’s ongoing witness—“Yet He has not left Himself without testimony” (Acts 14:17). • God’s decisive call today—“He now commands all people everywhere to repent” (Acts 17:30). Practical Guidance for Our Attitude • Patience that mirrors His: recognize He has long endured ignorance; we can endure misunderstanding. • Humility: if God permitted wandering, we cannot act with superiority toward those still wandering. • Confidence: history is in His hands; He is already at work in hearts we have not yet reached. Practical Guidance for Our Words • Start with common grace: point to rain, fruitful seasons, joy (Acts 14:17) as signs of the Creator’s goodness. • Move from general revelation to the Gospel: “Since the creation of the world His invisible attributes…have been clearly seen” (Romans 1:20). • Speak plainly of repentance and the risen Christ once the foundation is laid (Acts 17:31). Practical Guidance for Our Actions • Live kindness that reflects His kindness (Ephesians 4:32). • Engage cultures respectfully, acknowledging truths they already see written in creation (Psalm 19:1). • Persevere; patience does not equal passivity—“The Lord is…patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish” (2 Peter 3:9). Summary Truths to Take With You • God’s past patience sets the tone for our present outreach. • Creation declares God’s reality; use it to bridge toward Christ. • The season of ignorance is over—now is the time to proclaim repentance and faith. |
    |