How did Paul's "custom" in Acts 17:2 guide his evangelistic approach today? Paul’s Custom in Acts 17:2 “As was his custom, Paul went into the synagogue, and on three Sabbaths he reasoned with them from the Scriptures.” (Acts 17:2) Core Elements of the Custom • Entering the gathering place of his hearers • Meeting them at their regular time of worship (the Sabbath) • “Reasoning” (διαλέγομαι – dialoguing) rather than lecturing alone • Using the Scriptures as the sole authority • Persisting over multiple weeks Why This Pattern Mattered • Scripture-anchored: Paul trusted God’s Word to cut to the heart (Hebrews 4:12; Isaiah 55:11). • Audience-connected: He started where people already were—among those familiar with Scripture (Romans 1:16). • Christ-centered: He “explained and proved that the Christ had to suffer and rise from the dead” (Acts 17:3). • Reasoned, not coerced: Faith involves both heart and mind (1 Peter 3:15). • Persevering: Three Sabbaths show commitment to process, not quick salesmanship (Galatians 6:9). Guidance for Today’s Evangelism • Go to people, don’t wait for them to come. Identify the “synagogues” of our day—coffee shops, campuses, online forums. • Build on common ground. Start with what the audience already trusts or values, then bridge to Christ (Acts 13:16-41; 1 Corinthians 9:20-22). • Open Scripture and let it speak. Quote, read, and explain God’s Word rather than relying on personal opinion (2 Timothy 3:15-17; Romans 10:17). • Engage in respectful dialogue. Ask, listen, and answer with gentleness and logic. • Focus on the gospel’s essentials: Jesus’ death and resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). • Be patient and consistent. Relationships and repeated conversations often precede conversion. Practical Takeaways for Modern Believers 1. Schedule regular gospel appointments—weekly if possible. 2. Prepare a passage-based outline that shows Christ in the Old and New Testaments. 3. Learn to ask good questions that invite discussion. 4. Carry a physical or digital Bible and read it aloud; God’s voice carries authority. 5. Pray for boldness and clarity (Acts 4:29), then trust the Spirit to illumine hearts (John 16:8-11). |
    |