Why is it important to know your audience, as Paul did in Acts 26:3? Setting the scene Paul stands before King Agrippa and says, “you are well acquainted with all the Jewish customs and controversies...” (Acts 26:3). From the outset, he shows that he knows exactly who is listening—and he tailors everything that follows to that reality. Paul’s example in Acts 26 • He affirms Agrippa’s expertise in Jewish matters, building respect and rapport. • He recounts his own Jewish credentials (vv. 4-5), meeting Agrippa on common ground. • He centers his defense on the hope of Israel (v. 6), a topic the king understands. • He closes by presenting Christ as the logical fulfillment of what Agrippa already knows. Why knowing your audience matters 1. Opens ears and hearts ‑ People listen longer when they feel understood (Proverbs 15:23). 2. Clears away unnecessary hurdles ‑ Paul skips explanations Agrippa doesn’t need, focusing on what he does need. 3. Maximizes clarity ‑ “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt...” (Colossians 4:6). 4. Shows love and respect ‑ Love “seeks the good of others” (1 Corinthians 13:5); understanding them is step one. 5. Positions the gospel effectively ‑ “I have become all things to all men, so that by all possible means I might save some” (1 Corinthians 9:22). Connecting the dots across Scripture • Preparation: “Be diligent... rightly handling the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15). • Responsiveness: “Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope...” (1 Peter 3:15). • Wisdom: “A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver” (Proverbs 25:11, cf.). Practical takeaways for today • Know the setting—family member, coworker, skeptic, or fellow believer. • Learn their background—beliefs, questions, objections, hurts. • Begin where they are—shared experiences, common values, current needs. • Use language they understand—avoid jargon; explain terms lovingly. • Highlight relevance—show how Scripture touches their real concerns. Living it out Just as Paul read Agrippa’s mind-set, we intentionally read our listeners’. Doing so honors them, showcases the truth clearly, and gives the Holy Spirit room to convict and convince. When we know our audience, the timeless gospel finds timely expression—and God is glorified. |
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