11.3.19 - Knowing the Unknown God (Kenny Camacho)

SCRIPTURE: Acts 17 (Acts 17:16-34)


While Paul waits for his companions in Athens, his curiosity gets the better of him and he is drawn into a number of debates with local philosophers. Eventually, he is invited to speak at the Areopagus, a revered space for deciding religious matters. In his brief sermon there, he shows remarkable understanding and empathy with Roman culture, framing Jesus as the embodiment of the “Unknown God” the Athenians worshiped. He points out that all people, no matter where they are from, search in their own ways for God. He concludes that in this age, God is closer to us than ever. As we reflect on Paul’s sermon, we can learn quite a bit about what it means to share our beliefs about Jesus with others...by first seeking to understand them and what they are seeking. 


DISCUSSION/REFLECTION QUESTIONS:

  1. Read Paul’s sermon at the Areopagus (Acts 17:22-31). What are your initial thoughts about the case Paul is making? Why do you think he begins by applauding the Athenians religiosity and acknowledging their “unknown god”? 

  2. How does Paul reframe the Jewish story in verses 24-28 in a way that might resonate more persuasively with the Athenians? What can we learn from Paul’s approach here? 

  3. What are some of the ways we sometimes fail to tell the story of our own faith in a way that is welcoming and inclusive to others?

  4. What do you think about Paul’s claim that all people “grope” for God...and that God is not far from us? 

  5. When Paul decides to return to Jerusalem, he knows he is walking into a trap (Acts 20:3, 36-38). Why does he choose to do it anyway? What do you make of his statement, “I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me” (v. 23-24)? What is frightening or off-putting about this? What feels true or tempting to you? How can this verse challenge you this week/season/year?

Kenny Camacho