Very Religious Greek-Roman Mythology Unveiling the Unknown God: Paul's Message to Athens Acts 17:16-28
Sermon Resources
Sermon Summary
Title: Unveiling the Unknown God: Paul's Message to Athens
Sermon Summary: This sermon explores Paul's encounter with the Athenians in Acts 17, highlighting how he introduced the concept of the one true God to a polytheistic culture. The pastor emphasizes that all humans are chosen to believe in Jesus, created to receive God's Spirit, and called to obey as God's children. The sermon draws parallels between the Athenians' search for truth and our modern spiritual journey, emphasizing the importance of understanding and accepting Christ's message.
Key Points:
All humans are chosen to believe in Jesus Christ
We are created to receive God's Holy Spirit
We are called to be obedient children of God
Paul used the Athenians' cultural context to introduce the Gospel
The unknown God that the Athenians worshipped is revealed in Jesus Christ
God's Spirit dwells at the control center of our lives when we accept Christ
5-Day Personal Devotional
Day 1: Chosen to Believe Reading: Acts 17:16-34
Devotional: Paul's encounter with the Athenians reminds us that we are all chosen to believe in Jesus Christ. Just as the Athenians had an altar to an "unknown god," many of us have a sense that there's something more to life, even if we can't quite define it. Today, reflect on how God has been pursuing you throughout your life. What "altars" have you built to fill the God-shaped void in your heart? Remember, you were created with the capacity to know and receive God. Pray for openness to recognize God's invitation to believe in Jesus Christ.
Day 2: Created in God's Image Reading: Genesis 1:26-31, Psalm 139:13-18
Devotional: The sermon emphasized that humans, unlike other created beings, are made in God's image. This gives us inherent dignity and purpose. As you read today's passages, consider what it means to bear God's image. How does this truth change the way you view yourself and others? In a world that often devalues human life, how can you affirm the worth of every person you encounter today? Thank God for creating you with intention and love.
Day 3: The Unknown Made Known Reading: John 1:1-18, Colossians 1:15-20
Devotional: Paul used the Athenians' "unknown god" as a starting point to reveal the true God. Today's readings show how Jesus makes the unknown God known to us. He is the Word made flesh, the image of the invisible God. As you reflect, consider areas of your life where God still feels "unknown" or distant. What questions or doubts do you struggle with? Bring these before God, asking Him to reveal Himself more fully to you through Christ. Remember, it's okay to wrestle with questions – God is big enough to handle our doubts.
Day 4: Living, Moving, and Having Our Being in God Reading: Acts 17:24-28, Ephesians 3:14-21
Devotional: Paul quoted Greek poets to show how we live, move, and have our being in God. This beautiful imagery reminds us of God's constant presence and sustaining power. Today, practice awareness of God's presence in every moment. As you go about your day, pause regularly to acknowledge that you are living and moving in God. How does this change your perspective on daily tasks or challenges? Pray for a deepening sense of God's indwelling presence and the strength it provides.
Day 5: Responding as God's Offspring Reading: Romans 8:14-17, Galatians 4:4-7
Devotional: The sermon concluded with the powerful reminder that we are God's offspring, His children. This identity calls for a response of faith and obedience. As you read today's passages, reflect on what it means to be a child of God. How does this relationship change your approach to life's joys and sorrows? Consider the story of the pastor with the sick daughter – how can you entrust your loved ones and deepest concerns to your heavenly Father? End this devotional series by recommitting yourself to living as a beloved child of God, trusting in His love and purposes for your life.
Small Group Guide: Discovering the Unknown God
Opening Prayer
Key Takeaways:
Every person is chosen to believe in Jesus Christ.
We are created to receive God's presence in our lives.
As God's offspring, we are called to obey and surrender to Him.
Discussion Questions:
The sermon mentions "the unknown God" that the Athenians worshipped. What aspects of God do you find mysterious or difficult to understand?
Paul used the Old Testament to prove Jesus' identity to the Jews. How does understanding Old Testament prophecies strengthen your faith in Christ?
The sermon discusses how humans were created in God's image. How does this truth impact your view of yourself and others?
Paul addressed Greek gods and mythology in his message to the Athenians. How can we effectively communicate the gospel in our own culture today?
The pastor shared the story of Scott Broughton and his daughter. How has your understanding of God as Creator and Father changed your perspective on difficult situations?
The sermon emphasizes that we are "chosen to believe, created to receive, and a child to obey." Which of these concepts resonates most with you right now, and why?
Practical Applications:
Spend time this week studying one Old Testament prophecy about Jesus. Reflect on how it strengthens your faith.
Identify an area of your life where you need to surrender control to God. Make a commitment to pray about it daily.
Think of someone in your life who doesn't know Christ. How can you use Paul's approach of finding common ground to share the gospel with them?
Reflect on the idea that God's Spirit lives in the "control center" of your life. What changes might you need to make to fully embrace this truth?
Closing Prayer: Thank God for choosing us, creating us to receive His Spirit, and calling us to be His obedient children. Ask for His help in applying the lessons from this sermon to our daily lives.
