The Daily Devotional
Saturday, October 12, 2024
Embracing the Unknown God
Some of them joined him and became believers. (Acts 17:34a)
Introduction
"But some of them joined him and became believers, including Dionysius the Areopagite and a woman named Damaris, and others with them." (Acts 17:34a)
In this passage, Paul’s preaching in Athens yields fruit among a few open hearts. His sermon at the Areopagus, though met with skepticism by many, touches the souls of those ready to receive the truth he proclaimed about the "Unknown God."
Reflection
Paul’s encounter at the Areopagus serves as a striking illustration of how the gospel reaches into the diverse philosophical grounds of human inquiry and skepticism. Dionysius the Areopagite, a member of the Athenian council, represents those in society who are deeply entrenched in cultural and intellectual traditions. His conversion marks a significant intersection of faith with reason, showing us that the gospel can engage and transform even the most philosophical minds.
Imagine a modern-day scenario similar to Paul's experience: a street preacher in a bustling city square, surrounded by people from all walks of life. Amidst the crowd, a well-respected professor stops to listen, intrigued. The preacher’s words, full of conviction and passion, strike a chord with the professor, who has been seeking answers that his academic accolades cannot provide. This moment of revelation is akin to Dionysius' experience — an intellectual awakening sparked by the power of the preached Word.
Application
Acts 17:34a encourages us to approach evangelism with boldness and intellectual integrity. We should not shy away from sharing the gospel in diverse and challenging environments, whether they be academic, secular, or philosophical. Like Paul, our task is to present the truth lovingly and persuasively, trusting that God will open hearts to receive Him.
Conclusion
The story of Dionysius and Damaris is a testament to the unpredictable and inclusive reach of the gospel. It reminds us that faith can flourish in the most unlikely places and in the most unlikely hearts. As believers, we are called to be ambassadors of this transformative message, using our unique contexts and capacities to witness to the truth of Jesus Christ.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the example of Paul and the believers in Athens who embraced the gospel amidst a sea of skepticism. Grant us the courage to declare Your truth boldly and wisely, engaging with the world around us in a manner that draws others to Your love. Help us to be instruments of Your peace and salvation, reaching out to the Dionysiuses and the Damari of our time. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Devotional by: Rev. Kenny Sallee, ThM — Deming, NM, USA
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible (NRSV)© 1989, 1993, the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
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