How can we address modern "unknown gods" in our culture today? Setting the Scene in Athens “So Paul stood up in the meeting of the Areopagus and said: ‘Men of Athens, I see that in every way you are very religious.’ ” (Acts 17:22) The Holy Spirit records this historical moment to show, quite literally, how the gospel confronts every form of idolatry. Paul’s approach still guides us today. Identifying Today’s “Unknown Gods” • Self—personal autonomy, self-esteem culture, expressive individualism • Materialism—consumerism, endless upgrades, comfort obsession • Technology—screens, social media validation, data-driven security • Sexuality—identity politics, pornography, romantic fulfillment as ultimate • Success—career, academic accolades, athletic dominance • Entertainment—celebrity worship, binge culture, gaming escapism • Government & Ideology—political saviors, nationalism, utopian theories Each promises what only the living God can give: meaning, security, identity, and hope. Following Paul’s Pattern: Engaging the Culture • Observe respectfully: “I see that in every way you are very religious.” Notice without ridiculing. • Find a bridge: Paul used the altar “TO AN UNKNOWN GOD” (v. 23). We can start with a shared concern—justice, beauty, purpose. • Expose the gap: idols cannot speak, save, or satisfy (Isaiah 44:9-20). • Proclaim the Creator: “The God who made the world and everything in it” (v. 24). • Call for repentance: God “commands all people everywhere to repent” (v. 30). • Present Jesus risen: assurance given “by raising Him from the dead” (v. 31). • Trust the outcome: some sneer, some postpone, some believe (vv. 32-34). Practical Steps to Confront Idolatry in Daily Life • Examine your own heart daily (Psalm 139:23-24). Hidden idols lose power when confessed. • Speak Scripture naturally—carry verses into conversation (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). • Live distinctively—simplicity over excess, purity over lust, stewardship over greed (Matthew 6:19-24). • Use technology missionally—share truth, not self-glory (Philippians 2:15-16). • Model Sabbath rhythms—demonstrate freedom from 24/7 productivity (Exodus 20:8-11). • Celebrate Christ publicly—testimony replaces celebrity chatter (Revelation 12:11). • Support one another—idols wither in accountable community (Hebrews 10:24-25). The Unchanging Gospel Message Only the Son, “the exact representation of God’s nature” (Hebrews 1:3), answers every longing false gods exploit. He alone redeems, reconciles, and reigns. Courageous Witness in Word and Deed • Bold yet gracious speech (Colossians 4:5-6) • Reasoning from the Scriptures (Acts 17:2-3) • Demonstrating good works (Titus 2:7-8) • Ready defense with gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3:15) Scriptures to Anchor Our Response • Exodus 20:3—“You shall have no other gods before Me.” • 1 John 5:21—“Little children, keep yourselves from idols.” • Romans 1:22-25—trading the glory of God for images. • 2 Corinthians 10:4-5—demolishing arguments raised against the knowledge of God. • Colossians 3:5—putting to death what belongs to the earthly nature. • Revelation 4:11—“You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power.” By following Paul’s Spirit-inspired example, we expose and replace every modern “unknown god” with the all-sufficient, risen Lord Jesus Christ. |
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