What can Acts 17:32 teach us about perseverance in evangelism? Setting the Scene in Athens Paul is standing before the intellectual elite of the Areopagus. He has just proclaimed Jesus’ bodily resurrection—an unmistakably supernatural claim. That single assertion triggers the reaction recorded in Acts 17:32. The Immediate Reaction: A Mixed Crowd “ ‘When they heard about the resurrection of the dead, some began to scoff, but others said, “We want to hear you again on this topic.”’ ” (Acts 17:32) • Scoffers: intellectual pride pushes them to dismiss the message outright. • Seekers: curiosity stirs them to request another hearing. • Silent observers (implied): some neither mocked nor asked for more, but simply listened. Key Lessons on Perseverance in Evangelism 1. Expect Diverse Responses – The same gospel that melts one heart may harden another (2 Corinthians 2:15–16). – Jesus’ parable of the soils predicts varied receptions (Matthew 13:18-23). 2. Stay the Course Despite Mockery – Paul does not shrink back; he completes his address (Acts 17:33-34). – “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season” (2 Timothy 4:2). 3. Welcome Open Doors for Follow-Up – Paul seizes the invitation to speak again, illustrating readiness to invest time in seekers. – “Always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope within you” (1 Peter 3:15). 4. Trust God with the Results – Some scoff; some believe (Acts 17:34). The outcome is in the Lord’s hands, not ours. – “So then neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth” (1 Corinthians 3:7). Practical Ways to Keep Going When Responses Differ • Pray for courage daily; Scripture-fed boldness discourages discouragement. • Keep relationships open—return calls, answer questions, share meals. • Rehearse testimonies of God’s past faithfulness to refresh motivation. • Memorize promises like Galatians 6:9 and 1 Corinthians 15:58. • Join with other believers for mutual encouragement (Hebrews 10:24-25). Gospel Confidence: Anchored in Resurrection Truth The resurrection remained Paul’s centerpiece even when mocked. The same historical fact undergirds perseverance today: “ ‘If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile… But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead.’ ” (1 Corinthians 15:17,20) Because the tomb is empty, labor is never wasted. Scriptures for Ongoing Encouragement • Isaiah 55:11—God’s word never returns void. • Galatians 6:9—do not grow weary; harvest is promised. • 1 Corinthians 15:58—stand firm, knowing your labor in the Lord is not in vain. • Philippians 1:6—He who began a good work will carry it to completion. |
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