What can we learn from Paul's example of testifying "to the Jews" about Christ? Setting the scene in Acts 17:2-3 “Paul went into the synagogue, and on three Sabbaths he reasoned with them from the Scriptures, explaining and proving that the Christ had to suffer and rise from the dead. ‘This Jesus I am proclaiming to you is the Christ.’” What stands out in Paul’s method • Familiar territory: Paul starts “as was his custom” in the synagogue—he meets people where they already gather. • Scripture-centered reasoning: He “reasoned … explaining and proving” directly from the Hebrew Scriptures. • Clear focus on Christ: Every argument leads to Jesus’ suffering, resurrection, and identity as Messiah. • Patient persistence: Three consecutive Sabbaths show steady engagement, not a one-time speech. • Bold declaration: After reasoning, he unambiguously states, “This Jesus … is the Christ.” Lessons for us today • Go to the audience, don’t wait for them to come. • Build on shared authority—use Scripture confidently and carefully. • Keep Christ’s cross and resurrection at the center; avoid distractions. • Be willing to stay in the conversation; persuasion often requires time. • Move from discussion to decision—lovingly but clearly present Jesus as Lord and Messiah. Supporting passages that echo the pattern • Acts 9:20—“At once he began to preach in the synagogues that Jesus is the Son of God.” • Acts 18:4—“Every Sabbath he reasoned in the synagogue, trying to persuade both Jews and Greeks.” • Romans 1:16—“I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, first to the Jew, then to the Greek.” • 1 Corinthians 15:3-4—Paul’s concise gospel: Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose on the third day according to the Scriptures. Practical application 1. Identify natural gathering points—family tables, coffee shops, campus groups. 2. Prepare Scripture passages that connect with your listeners’ background. 3. Practice explaining why the Messiah had to suffer and rise (Isaiah 53; Psalm 16:10). 4. Commit to ongoing conversations rather than one-off encounters. 5. Conclude with a direct invitation to trust Jesus, as Paul did. |
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