How does Acts 17:17 connect with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20? Setting the Scene • Acts 17:17: “So he reasoned in the synagogue with the Jews and God-fearing Gentiles, and in the marketplace day by day with those who happened to be there.” • Matthew 28:19-20: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Shared Heartbeat: Going to All Peoples • Matthew’s command: “make disciples of all nations.” • Acts 17:17 shows the Apostle Paul stepping into that mandate—Jews, God-fearing Gentiles, anyone in the marketplace. • The phrase “all nations” is mirrored by Paul’s intentional reach: synagogue (religious Jews), God-fearers (Gentile seekers), marketplace (ordinary citizens). Methods That Align 1. Teaching and Reasoning – Jesus: “teaching them to observe…” (Matthew 28:20) – Paul: “he reasoned” (Acts 17:17). – Both emphasize clear, logical presentation of truth, not mere proclamation. 2. Continual Presence – Jesus: “I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20). – Paul’s daily engagement “day by day” reflects confidence in that promised presence (cf. Acts 18:9-10). 3. Public and Private Spheres – Great Commission is not confined to church walls. – Paul moves fluidly between synagogue (religious space) and marketplace (public square), illustrating comprehensive obedience. Fruitful Obedience Illustrated • Acts 17 leads to the Areopagus address (vv. 22-34), where several believe. • This models the Commission’s desired outcome: new disciples from diverse backgrounds (cf. Acts 17:34). Reinforcing Scriptures • Acts 1:8—power to be witnesses “to the ends of the earth.” • Romans 1:16—gospel “first to the Jew, then to the Greek.” • 2 Timothy 4:2—“Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season.” • 1 Peter 3:15—“always be ready to give a defense.” Practical Takeaways • Embrace both formal (synagogue/church) and informal (marketplace/workplace) venues. • Engage diverse audiences with the same gospel, tailoring approach without diluting truth. • Depend on Christ’s promised presence; faithful obedience will bear fruit. |
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