What role does reasoning from Scripture play in sharing the Gospel effectively? Acts 17:2 in Focus “As was Paul’s custom, he went into the synagogue, and on three Sabbaths he reasoned with them from the Scriptures” (Acts 17:2). Why Reasoning Matters in Gospel Witness • Reasoning appeals to both mind and conscience, showing that faith is neither blind nor irrational (Isaiah 1:18). • Scripture is the unchanging standard; reasoning from it anchors every claim in God’s revealed truth (Psalm 19:7). • The Spirit works through the Word, opening hearts as truth is explained (Acts 16:14). • Prophecy and fulfillment are laid side by side, demonstrating Christ’s identity beyond dispute (Luke 24:27). Paul’s Method: Step-by-Step 1. Enter the familiar arena – a synagogue where people respected Scripture. 2. Open the scrolls and read them aloud, inviting listeners to see the words for themselves. 3. Explain (Acts 17:3, “explaining and proving that the Christ had to suffer and rise from the dead”). 4. Prove – marshal multiple passages to build a cumulative case (e.g., Psalm 16:10; Isaiah 53:5-6). 5. Call for response: “This Jesus I proclaim to you is the Christ” (v. 3). Linking with the Whole Counsel of God • Acts 17:17 – Paul repeats the same pattern in Athens, showing consistency. • Acts 18:4 – “He was reasoning in the synagogue every Sabbath and trying to persuade Jews and Greeks”. • 2 Timothy 3:15-17 – Scripture equips “for every good work,” including evangelism. • 1 Peter 3:15 – be “ready to make a defense,” a reasoned answer grounded in Scripture. • Hebrews 4:12 – the Word pierces and discerns; our reasoning partners with its power. Practical Guidelines for Today • Start with common ground: identify a verse your listener respects or is curious about. • Keep an open Bible visible—invite others to read along, fostering trust in the text, not in you. • Trace a clear line from prophecy to fulfillment: – Micah 5:2 → Matthew 2:1 • Use questions that draw attention back to the passage (“What does this verse say about Messiah’s sufferings?”). • Balance persuasion with patience; Paul reasoned “for three Sabbaths,” allowing time for reflection. • Rely on the Spirit through prayerful dependence while confidently presenting the text. Fruit of Scripture-Based Reasoning • Converts who are rooted, not merely impressed (Acts 17:4). • A faith capable of withstanding opposition because it rests on God’s Word (Matthew 7:24-25). • A witness that exalts Christ, letting Scripture, not personality, carry the weight (John 5:39). |
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