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- Oct 26, 2007
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Then Paul, as his custom was, went in to them, and for three Sabbaths reasoned with them from the Scriptures, explaining and demonstrating that the Christ had to suffer and rise again from the dead, and [saying], "This Jesus whom I preach to you is the Christ." Acts 17:2-3 NKJV
The apostle Paul spent most of his time sharing God’s message with people. He didn’t apologize or diminish the message in any way. He shared it with skeptics, and he confronted those hostile to the words he spoke. Paul didn’t back down.
The apostle did three things to help his audience have the best chance at understanding the message. You won’t read the words condescending, belittling, or harassing in today’s scripture verse. Paul used a better approach.
Reasoned—He appealed to people’s ability to think through issues and consider the validity of the message.
Explained—He knew there were concepts the audience wouldn’t understand, so he used words and examples that simplified the complex.
Proved—Paul dealt in facts, not fairy tales. He could prove the message by what actually happened.
Paul could have said something you’ve probably heard before: “God said it, I believe it, and that’s good enough for me.” While this is a fine personal proclamation, it rarely meets people where they really are. They’ll need someone patient enough to reason, explain, and proved in a way that attracts them to God’s life—changing, heart-transforming message.
Prayer: Jesus, I want to use Your words to eliminate barriers to new life. The people I talk to will consider You with their mind before they accept Your rescue by faith. Help me remember that.
The apostle Paul spent most of his time sharing God’s message with people. He didn’t apologize or diminish the message in any way. He shared it with skeptics, and he confronted those hostile to the words he spoke. Paul didn’t back down.
The apostle did three things to help his audience have the best chance at understanding the message. You won’t read the words condescending, belittling, or harassing in today’s scripture verse. Paul used a better approach.
Reasoned—He appealed to people’s ability to think through issues and consider the validity of the message.
Explained—He knew there were concepts the audience wouldn’t understand, so he used words and examples that simplified the complex.
Proved—Paul dealt in facts, not fairy tales. He could prove the message by what actually happened.
Paul could have said something you’ve probably heard before: “God said it, I believe it, and that’s good enough for me.” While this is a fine personal proclamation, it rarely meets people where they really are. They’ll need someone patient enough to reason, explain, and proved in a way that attracts them to God’s life—changing, heart-transforming message.
Prayer: Jesus, I want to use Your words to eliminate barriers to new life. The people I talk to will consider You with their mind before they accept Your rescue by faith. Help me remember that.
