When Paul finished his sermon in Athens in Acts 17, there were several different types of responses. Some people sneered and mocked Paul. Others said, "We will think about it." But some believed!
Let's remind ourselves that Paul was in a pioneer area where no one had ever heard the gospel and this message was brand new to the Athenians. It was in fact "strange things to their ears" (Acts 17:20). However, God is not limited to a certain method nor is he bound by time. Relationship evangelism is great and is certainly a wonderful way to find ways to share the gospel with people, but we have to trust that God is working in places that may not have even ever heard the word "God" or "Jesus" before! There are no rules that state you have to know someone for a month or a year, get to know them and then share. There are no rules that you have to use a certain gospel tract or method. God is God and we are not! All He wants is for us to be faithful to do whatever He has called us to do!
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| Sharon Beougher |
Spurgeon once stated to preachers to "Take your text and make a beeline for the cross." In our conversations we need to make a beeline for the cross. The cross is what provides hope for the heart as people Hope, Believe, Turn and Call.
Lord, let us learn from Paul and let us be faithful to do WHATEVER you want us to do and to never lose the wonder of who You are and the wonder of our salvation!
