God and the Philosophers

A few men became followers of Paul and believed. Among them was Dionysius, a member of the Areopagus, also a woman named Damaris, and a number of others. (Acts 17:34)

Greece was the center of learning in the Roman Empire, and Athens was the center of learning in Greece, and the Areopagus was the center of learning in Athens. And here Paul was bold enough to preach the Resurrection of Jesus. Although learned himself, Paul would have seemed rustic and barbarous to these Athenians. His strange tale was one to be sneered at (v32). Yet Paul was not deterred. He no doubt relished the opportunity. And that day, even in such a place, there were those “appointed for eternal life [who] believed” (13:48). An actual member of the council, Dionysius, was saved that day. Despite all his learning and all his sophistication, his heart was open and he believed. I must never censor myself because I presume that my audience is too educated or sophisticated to be receptive to the Gospel. Paul was eager to preach in the synagogues and market places, knowing that most would just want to argue and many would ridicule him. Lord, may I be no less eager. Make me bold to testify at every opportunity.