The Apostle Paul in Athens

Tonight we’ll be studying about an “Introduction to Who God Is” from Paul’s sermon in Athens recorded in Acts 17:22-31. Athens was one of the greatest ancient cities, but it was also a city full of idolatry. (Acts 17:16) Paul reasons with the Jews and Gentiles who worshipped God in the synagogue along with those in the marketplace as well regarding Jesus the Christ. (Acts 17:17) The Epicurean and Stoic philosophers began to question Paul. (Acts 17:18-21) The Epicureans chief aim in life was pleasure. They believed they could find happiness by seeking that which brought physical and mental pleasure. In contrast to the Epicureans, Paul believed that true happiness was found in following the will of Jesus Christ. Stoics believed that human beings should be free from passion and unmoved by joy or grief. They also believed in being submissive to natural law, calmly accepting all things as a result of God’s divine will.

Join us in worship this evening as we learn about who God is as Paul preached in Athens. Tonight will be the beginning of a series of messages from God’s word that I’ll be sharing with you concerning “Basic Bible Doctrines” that, Lord willing, we’ll study together during the next few months on Sunday evenings. As you go through the week ahead, remember to daily keep your family focused on faithfully following the Father. God bless you. I love you.

Kevin