How can we respond when others mock our faith like in Acts 17:32? Setting the Scene in Athens – Acts 17:32 records the pivotal moment: “When they heard about the resurrection of the dead, some began to mock, but others said, ‘We want to hear you again on this topic.’” – Paul had faithfully presented the gospel; the crowd’s split response teaches that ridicule is never the final verdict. Their Reaction: Mockery and Mixed Responses – Some “mocked” (literally “sneered”)—resurrection sounded impossible to them. – Others stayed curious. – The contrast reminds us that every audience contains varied hearts (cf. Luke 8:4-15). Our First Response: Remain Calm and Confident in Truth • Do not be shaken—truth does not change with opinion. • Romans 1:16: “I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation…” • 1 Peter 3:14: “Even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. Do not fear their intimidation.” Our Second Response: Speak with Gentleness and Respect • 1 Peter 3:15-16: “Always be prepared to give a defense…yet with gentleness and respect.” • Avoid sarcastic retaliation; kindness disarms scorn (Proverbs 15:1). • Ask questions that probe the heart, as Paul did by referencing their “unknown god” (Acts 17:22-23). Our Third Response: Keep the Focus on the Resurrection • The resurrection is the flashpoint—yet it is also the cornerstone (1 Corinthians 15:14). • Present it plainly: Jesus really died and bodily rose (Acts 17:31). • Share eyewitness evidence (1 Corinthians 15:3-8) and personal testimony of changed life. Our Fourth Response: Know When to Move On • After the mockery, “Paul left the Areopagus” (Acts 17:33), modeling discernment. • Matthew 7:6 warns against endlessly casting pearls before scoffers. • Leaving is not defeat; it entrusts results to God. Our Fifth Response: Celebrate the Seed That Took Root • “But some men joined him and believed” (Acts 17:34). • Focus on the receptive few rather than the loud mockers. • Galatians 6:9: sow faithfully; in due season we reap. Our Ultimate Encouragement • Mockery fulfilled Jesus’ words: “Blessed are you when people insult you… Rejoice and be glad” (Matthew 5:11-12). • God uses even ridicule to spread truth—Athens heard the gospel that day, and some entered eternal life. • Stand firm, speak graciously, plant the seed, and trust the Lord of the harvest. |
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