Background
Paul was on his second missionary journey (see map). Paul's message about Jesus Christ was often rejected, especially by his fellow Jews. In Thessalonica, some of the Jews opposed Paul, so he was sent away to Berea (Acts 17:1-10). The Bereans were more receptive, but the Jews from Thessalonica caught up with Paul, and he was sent away again (17:11-14). This time, he was escorted to Athens, where he waited for his colleagues Silas and Timothy to join him (17:15).

? When you think of Athens, what do you think about?

Paul's Concern
* Read Acts 17:16-21.

1. As Paul waited, he walked around the city, and he was "greatly distressed." His "spirit was provoked within him" (17:16, ESV). Why was he so distressed?

? Christians, do you sometimes get "greatly distressed" as you look around your world?

Paul's Actions
* So what did Paul do? He talked to people. He "reasoned" with them (17:17). He did this in two settings, and with various people:

The synagogue (Jewish religious center):
* Jews & God-fearing [Greeks]

The marketplace:
* Those who happened to be there, including Epicurean and Stoic philosophers.

2. What philosophies do you encounter (or maybe believe) that conflict with Christian teaching?

? Christians, in what places do you talk about Jesus Christ? To whom do you talk to?

Athenian Response
* The philosophers talked with Paul. What did they think about him? (17:18)

* Some called him a "babbler."
* Others said, "He seems to be proclaiming foreign gods."

† Because "he was preaching the good news about Jesus Christ and the resurrection."

* What did they do with Paul? (17:19-20)

* They took him and brought him to the Areopagus.
* Then the Council of Areopagus asked him about his "new teaching" and "strange ideas."

3. Why do you think they were interested in Paul's teaching? In general, why might non-Christians be interested in learning about and discussing Christian teaching?

? If you are not a Christian, why are you interested in Christian teaching?

Paul's Response
* Read Acts 17:22-23.

4. Paul noted, "I see that in every way you are very religious" (17:22, NIV). Is this a good thing? Explain.

* Paul said he found an altar with this inscription: TO AN UNKNOWN GOD. Then he said, "Now what you worship as something unknown I am going to proclaim to you" (17:23, NIV).

5. Among the many gods in Athens, there was still "an unknown god." What do you think this reveals about their religion or philosophy?

Reflection/Application

† What is your religion or philosophy? Do you feel that it is thoroughly adequate? Review this handout, consider the questions, and come back!