Acts 17:32–34

When they heard Paul speak about the resurrection of the dead, some laughed in contempt, but others said, “We want to hear more about this later.” That ended Paul’s discussion with them, but some joined him and became believers.

Paul received a complete range of reactions to his speech to the Areopagus. Some laughed, others wanted to hear more and yet others became believers. Those who laughed with contempt found the idea of the resurrection absurd. It is never pleasant to be laughed at, but Paul knew that the Christian message will always seem ridiculous to some people. He spoke about this at length when he wrote to the church in Corinth. If you have a partner, children or colleagues who find your faith a complete joke it is very tiring and discouraging. I pray that you will find grace and strength to cope, and also Christian friends who can support you.

Other people were sufficiently stimulated by Paul’s message to want to hear more from him at a later date. When people first hear the Christian message, it often comes as such a surprise that they don’t know how to take it all on board. They need time to stop and reflect. I have known some people who took decades to reflect on the good news before they finally decided to follow Jesus. We need to be very patient and continually willing to talk with people about their questions and doubts.

Finally, some people believed. Among them was Dionysius, a member of the Areopagus (v34b). How thrilled Paul must have been that one of the members of this distinguished body should make a commitment to follow Christ. And remember that Paul had never intended to be in Athens at all! He was merely kicking his heels for a few days while Silas and Timothy caught up with him. Paul’s eagerness to share the good news was unceasing.

Question

How would you support someone who was being mocked for their faith?

Prayer

Lord God, help me to share your good news with other people whatever their reaction. Amen

Released on 18 Jul 2024