Daily Devotions
Respect & Evangelism
Title: Respect & Evangelism
Reading for May 24: Nehemiah 11-13
Weekly reading for May 20-26: Acts 16-19
Now while Paul was waiting for them at Athens, his spirit was provoked within him as he saw that the city was full of idols.
Acts 17:16
Paul didn't like the city of Athens. My translation (ESV) says that Paul's spirit was provoked because of the idolatry. The word translated "provoked" is a strong word that means "to irritate, provoke, arouse to anger" (Strong's). Paul's feelings were deep and powerful. There was probably a mixture of sadness and righteous anger at all he saw as he saw evidences of idolatry everywhere.
However, you wouldn't know Paul's feelings by listening to his sermon. He spoke respectfully to the Athenians, opening his sermon with these words: "Men of Athens, I perceive that in every way you are very religious."
Paul's example is commendable, but it's not easy to follow. Our society is becoming increasingly like Athens. Biblical illiteracy is at an all-time high. Idolatry is rampant. The moral and spiritual foundations of our society are crumbling around us. Millennials are not just immoral, they are unapologetically embracing wickedness, and the worst sin you can commit is to speak out against sin.
But this is no excuse. We are to give a defense in meekness and fear (1 Pet 3:15). We are not to be quarrelsome but kind (2 Tim 2:24). We are to do unto others as we would have them do unto us (Mt 7:12). We must imitate the example of our brother Paul and show respect when presenting the gospel.
Father, make our speech gracious, seasoned with salt, so we might know how to answer each person.
