How can Acts 17:3 guide us in sharing the Gospel with others? Context and Key Phrase in Acts 17:3 “Explaining and proving that the Christ had to suffer and rise from the dead, ‘This Jesus I am proclaiming to you is the Christ.’” Truths to Anchor Our Gospel Sharing • Jesus is the promised Messiah—no alternatives or additions. • His suffering and resurrection are essential, non-negotiable facts. • Clear explanation and persuasive reasoning belong together. Patterns We Learn from Paul • Start with Scripture: Paul opened the Word, not opinions (cf. Luke 24:27; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4). • Move from prophecy to fulfillment: show how promises land squarely on Jesus. • Center on the cross and empty tomb: these are the hinge of salvation (Romans 10:9; 1 Corinthians 1:23-24). • Call for personal recognition: “This Jesus … is the Christ,” leaving hearers to respond (Acts 2:36-37). Practical Steps for Conversations Today 1. Open your Bible when you talk. Read the verses aloud; let God speak. 2. Trace the storyline—from Genesis’ first promise (Genesis 3:15) through Isaiah 53 to the Resurrection accounts. 3. Keep the main issue clear: Who is Jesus, and what has He done? 4. Explain why He “had to suffer”: substitutionary atonement (Isaiah 53:5; 2 Corinthians 5:21). 5. Present the resurrection as historical fact that demands faith (Acts 1:3; 1 Peter 1:3). 6. Invite listeners to see that the same Jesus lives and saves today (Hebrews 7:25). Supporting Scriptures to Strengthen Your Case • Isaiah 53: “He was pierced for our transgressions…” • Psalm 16:10; Acts 2:31: prophecy of the resurrection. • John 20:31: the written record so “you may believe that Jesus is the Christ.” • Romans 1:4: declared Son of God by resurrection power. Encouragement for Faithful Proclaimers • The Holy Spirit still opens minds to understand (Acts 16:14). • God honors faithful Scripture-centered witness (Isaiah 55:11). • Persevere; some will mock, others will believe (Acts 17:32-34). |
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