How can we effectively engage with those who have different beliefs today? Setting the Scene “Then certain Epicurean and Stoic philosophers also began to debate with him. Some asked, ‘What is this babbler trying to say?’ Others said, ‘He seems to be proclaiming foreign gods,’ because he was preaching the good news about Jesus and the resurrection.” (Acts 17:18) Paul steps into Athens—a city thick with ideas—and meets people who think very differently. From his approach we can draw practical help for our own conversations today. Start Where People Actually Are • Paul listens first. He learns the philosophers’ terms (“foreign gods”) before responding. • Proverbs 18:13 reminds us: “He who answers a matter before he hears, it is folly and shame to him.” • Before speaking truth, learn the other person’s story, vocabulary, and concerns. Connect With Respectful Curiosity • Notice Paul does not mock the Athenians’ worldview; he engages it. • 2 Timothy 2:24–25: “A servant of the Lord must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone… correcting his opponents with gentleness.” • Tone matters as much as content. A respectful spirit keeps doors open. Find Bridges, Not Walls • Paul later quotes their own poets (Acts 17:28) to build common ground. • Look for shared longings—justice, beauty, meaning—and show how Christ fulfills them. • Colossians 4:5–6: “Walk in wisdom toward outsiders… Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt.” Wisdom looks for overlap before offering correction. Keep the Center Center • Paul’s main message never drifts: “Jesus and the resurrection.” • Our ultimate aim is not winning arguments but introducing a Person. • 1 Corinthians 2:2: “For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified.” Speak Plainly, Trust the Spirit • Athenians label Paul a “babbler,” yet he speaks plainly about sin, judgment, and the risen Lord (Acts 17:30–31). • Clear, simple gospel seeds are powerful; the Spirit gives the growth (John 16:8). • Avoid needless jargon; let Scripture’s clarity shine. Expect Varied Responses • Acts 17:32–34 shows three reactions: ridicule, delay, belief. • Our role: sow faithfully. God manages results. • Galatians 6:9: “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not give up.” Practical Steps for Today • Listen actively before sharing. • Affirm any truth you hear, then gently correct what is false. • Use everyday illustrations, art, or current events as bridges. • Keep conversations Christ-centered, not merely moral or political. • Pray beforehand, speak graciously, leave the outcome to God. Conclusion From Acts 17:18 we learn that effective engagement with differing beliefs mixes attentive listening, respectful curiosity, and unwavering focus on the risen Christ. Speak clearly, love genuinely, trust the Spirit, and let the gospel do its work. |
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