Embracing Diverse Reactions to the Unchanging Gospel
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, church. Today, we delved into Acts 17 to explore the challenges and varied reactions encountered when sharing the gospel. We began by reflecting on personal experiences, illustrating how different backgrounds and perspectives can lead to vastly different reactions to the same message. This sets the stage for understanding the diverse responses Paul faced as he preached the gospel in Thessalonica, Berea, and Athens.
In Thessalonica, Paul’s message was met with both acceptance and hostility. Some Jews and Greeks believed, but others, driven by jealousy, incited a mob against him. Moving to Berea, Paul found a more receptive audience who diligently examined the Scriptures, leading many to faith. However, the hostile Jews from Thessalonica followed him there, stirring up trouble once again. Finally, in Athens, Paul encountered a city full of idols. Despite initial mockery, some Athenians were intrigued and came to believe.
The core message is that the gospel remains unchanged despite varying reactions. It turns the world upside down, revealing our sinful nature and the need for a Savior. This transformative power of the gospel is both a stumbling block and a source of salvation. As believers, we must be prepared for different reactions and remain steadfast in preaching Christ crucified, regardless of the opposition we face.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Gospel Turns the World Upside Down: The gospel fundamentally changes lives by revealing our sinful nature and our need for a Savior. This transformation is often met with resistance because it challenges deeply held beliefs and comforts. Yet, it is this very upheaval that leads to true redemption and a new life in Christ. [46:31]
2. Reactions Do Not Change the Message: Regardless of the opposition or acceptance we face, the message of the gospel must remain unchanged. Paul’s unwavering commitment to preaching Christ crucified, despite hostility, serves as a model for us. We must resist the temptation to soften the message to gain acceptance. [53:46]
3. Be Prepared for Different Reactions: Sharing the gospel will elicit a range of responses, from hostility to curiosity to acceptance. Our role is to engage with people where they are, answering their questions and walking with them through their doubts. This requires a deep understanding of God and a commitment to loving others through their journey. [58:31]
4. The Importance of Knowing God Intimately: To effectively share the gospel and respond to different reactions, we must know God deeply. This involves studying Scripture, understanding theology, and experiencing God’s presence in our lives. A robust relationship with God equips us to address the intellectual and emotional needs of those we encounter. [01:01:18]
5. Hope for Redemption: No matter how hostile someone’s initial reaction to the gospel may be, there is always hope for redemption. The transformation of the Thessalonians, who initially persecuted Paul, into a faithful church is a powerful reminder that God can change hearts. We must persist in sharing the gospel, trusting in God’s power to save. [01:05:47]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[38:25] - Introduction to Acts 17
[39:59] - Different Reactions to the Gospel
[41:54] - The Early Church and Persecution
[42:36] - Paul's Missionary Journeys
[43:29] - Overview of Acts 17
[45:09] - Personal Reactions to the Gospel
[46:03] - The Gospel Turns the World Upside Down
[53:14] - Reactions Do Not Change the Message
[58:31] - Be Prepared for Different Reactions
[01:01:18] - Knowing God Intimately
[01:05:47] - Hope for Redemption
[01:08:13] - Closing Prayer and Call to Action
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
- Acts 17:1-9
- Romans 5:12
- Mark 12:30
### Observation Questions
1. What were the different reactions Paul encountered when he preached the gospel in Thessalonica, Berea, and Athens? ([39:59])
2. How did the Jews in Thessalonica respond to Paul's message, and what actions did they take as a result? ([41:02])
3. What was the reaction of the Bereans to Paul's preaching, and how did it differ from the Thessalonians? ([44:20])
4. In Athens, what did Paul observe about the city, and how did he respond to the presence of idols? ([01:00:07])
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think the gospel message is described as turning the world upside down? How does this concept challenge our existing beliefs and comforts? ([46:31])
2. How does Paul's unwavering commitment to preaching Christ crucified, despite opposition, serve as a model for us today? ([53:46])
3. What does it mean to be prepared for different reactions when sharing the gospel, and how can we engage with people who have varying responses? ([58:31])
4. How does knowing God intimately equip us to share the gospel effectively and respond to different reactions? ([01:01:18])
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you shared the gospel and received a negative reaction. How did you handle it, and what did you learn from that experience? ([39:59])
2. The sermon emphasized that the gospel message should not be softened to gain acceptance. Are there areas in your life where you might be tempted to compromise the message of the gospel? How can you stay true to the message? ([53:46])
3. Think of someone in your life who has had a hostile reaction to the gospel. How can you continue to engage with them lovingly and patiently? ([58:31])
4. How can you deepen your relationship with God to be better prepared for sharing the gospel? What specific steps can you take to know God more intimately? ([01:01:18])
5. Identify a person you are currently sharing the gospel with. What has their reaction been, and how can you better address their questions and doubts? ([01:03:16])
6. The sermon mentioned the hope for redemption, even for those initially hostile to the gospel. How can this hope encourage you to persist in sharing the gospel with others? ([01:05:47])
7. Consider an area of your life where you need to grow in understanding theology or doctrine. What resources or steps can you take to improve in this area? ([01:04:33])
Devotional
Day 1: The Gospel Turns the World Upside Down
The gospel fundamentally changes lives by revealing our sinful nature and our need for a Savior. This transformation is often met with resistance because it challenges deeply held beliefs and comforts. Yet, it is this very upheaval that leads to true redemption and a new life in Christ. When Paul preached in Thessalonica, some accepted the message while others, driven by jealousy, incited a mob against him. This illustrates how the gospel can disrupt the status quo, causing both acceptance and opposition.
The transformative power of the gospel is a double-edged sword. It exposes our flaws and calls us to repentance, which can be uncomfortable and even offensive to some. However, it is through this process that we find true freedom and salvation. As believers, we must embrace this upheaval in our own lives and be prepared for the varied reactions it may provoke in others. [46:31]
Acts 17:6 (ESV): "And when they could not find them, they dragged Jason and some of the brothers before the city authorities, shouting, 'These men who have turned the world upside down have come here also.'"
Reflection: Think about a time when the gospel challenged your own beliefs or comfort. How did you respond, and what did you learn from that experience?
Day 2: Reactions Do Not Change the Message
Regardless of the opposition or acceptance we face, the message of the gospel must remain unchanged. Paul’s unwavering commitment to preaching Christ crucified, despite hostility, serves as a model for us. We must resist the temptation to soften the message to gain acceptance. In Berea, Paul found a more receptive audience who diligently examined the Scriptures, leading many to faith. However, the hostile Jews from Thessalonica followed him there, stirring up trouble once again.
The gospel's truth is not dependent on how it is received. Our role is to faithfully present the message of Christ, trusting that God will work in the hearts of those who hear it. This requires courage and conviction, especially in the face of opposition. We must hold fast to the truth of the gospel, knowing that it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes. [53:46]
1 Corinthians 1:18 (ESV): "For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God."
Reflection: Are there areas in your life where you are tempted to soften the gospel message to avoid conflict or gain acceptance? How can you stand firm in the truth today?
Day 3: Be Prepared for Different Reactions
Sharing the gospel will elicit a range of responses, from hostility to curiosity to acceptance. Our role is to engage with people where they are, answering their questions and walking with them through their doubts. This requires a deep understanding of God and a commitment to loving others through their journey. In Athens, Paul encountered a city full of idols. Despite initial mockery, some Athenians were intrigued and came to believe.
Being prepared for different reactions means being equipped with both knowledge and compassion. We must be ready to address the intellectual and emotional needs of those we encounter, providing answers and support as they explore the gospel. This involves listening, understanding, and patiently guiding others towards the truth. [58:31]
1 Peter 3:15 (ESV): "But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect."
Reflection: Think of someone in your life who has shown curiosity or resistance to the gospel. How can you engage with them in a loving and understanding way this week?
Day 4: The Importance of Knowing God Intimately
To effectively share the gospel and respond to different reactions, we must know God deeply. This involves studying Scripture, understanding theology, and experiencing God’s presence in our lives. A robust relationship with God equips us to address the intellectual and emotional needs of those we encounter. Paul’s deep knowledge of God and the Scriptures enabled him to effectively communicate the gospel in diverse contexts.
Knowing God intimately is the foundation of our faith and our witness. It is through this relationship that we gain the wisdom, strength, and compassion needed to share the gospel effectively. As we grow in our understanding of God, we become better equipped to guide others towards Him. [01:01:18]
Jeremiah 9:23-24 (ESV): "Thus says the Lord: 'Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast in his riches, but let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows me, that I am the Lord who practices steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth. For in these things I delight, declares the Lord.'"
Reflection: How can you deepen your relationship with God this week? What specific steps can you take to grow in your understanding and experience of Him?
Day 5: Hope for Redemption
No matter how hostile someone’s initial reaction to the gospel may be, there is always hope for redemption. The transformation of the Thessalonians, who initially persecuted Paul, into a faithful church is a powerful reminder that God can change hearts. We must persist in sharing the gospel, trusting in God’s power to save. Even in the face of rejection or hostility, we can hold onto the hope that God is at work.
The story of the Thessalonians teaches us that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace. Our role is to faithfully share the gospel and trust that God will work in His timing. This hope for redemption should motivate us to persevere in our witness, knowing that God can bring about transformation in even the most unlikely circumstances. [01:05:47]
2 Corinthians 5:17 (ESV): "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come."
Reflection: Is there someone in your life who seems resistant to the gospel? How can you continue to share the message of Christ with them, trusting in God’s power to bring about change?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "The gospel has turned your life upside down. And the interesting thing was the Thessalonican Jews understood this. Matter of fact, they're the ones who said it. They got something right in this passage. In verse five, but the Jews were jealous after hearing the gospel. Some wicked men of rabble, they formed a mob, set the city in an uproar and attacked the house of Jason, a dude that just happened to accept Jesus, seeking to bring them out to the crowd. And when they could not find them, they dragged Jason, a very new convert, and the brothers before the city and listened to what they said, listened to what they, they shouted here. They shouted, these men have turned the world upside down. they've come here too. These men have turned the world upside down. The gospel changes everything. It turns your world upside down. It turns my world upside down. It turns the world upside down. It changes everything." (63 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "If you don't know Jesus as your Lord and Savior, and you are here today, today is the day to repent and believe. We will be praying here in a few minutes. Come up and pray with us. Let's get you to know Jesus." (12 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "All you have to do is call out to Jesus Christ and say, Lord, I am a sinner, but you are the Savior. You are God, forgive me, bring me in, make me one of your saints. And he does. But it takes us understanding that we are sinful, and sinful from the beginning. And church, the world doesn't want to hear that. I don't like to hear that." (25 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "The gospel says that we are nothing but dead creatures because of our sinful nature. The world's not gonna like that. We don't like to hear that. But God saves us, and that is the crux of the gospel, and it turns the world upside down." (18 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The first reaction to the people that you are spreading the gospel is not gonna be their last reaction. And so let's get out there and preach the same gospel despite the reactions of the people, amen?" (11 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "The truth is, we all, the majority of us, have had different reactions to the gospel at some point in time. Some of you received the gospel when you were young. Some of you knew right away. Six years old, I knew that Jesus was my Lord and Savior and I knew nothing else besides that. Some of you were like that. Some of you were hostile to the gospel. Some of you ran away from the gospel. Some of you are here right now. Wondering why you're in church, still hostile to the gospel. And we're excited that you're here. Welcome." (32 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "If you are a Christian, and your life has not been radically changed, if your world has not flipped upside down, you should be worried a little bit. Because through the Christian walk, he doesn't just flip it once, he flips it over and over and over again by revealing our sins. As Paul says, as I become more like Jesus, more sin is revealed in my life, and he flips it over and over again. So if you've not been greatly affected by the gospel, if it is not continually working in your life, either one, you may not know Jesus, which is a hard reality, or two, you've turned off the voice of God in your life." (37 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "We cannot change the message of the gospel to get softer reactions. Paul doesn't all three times in this passage of Acts 17, he never changes the message. When the mobs in Thessalonica are at him, he doesn't change the message. It's Jesus. When he's in Berea and the Thessalonians, excuse me, I keep saying Thessalonians, the Thessalonians then follow him and attack him, he doesn't change the message of Christ. When he's in Athens, surrounded by idols, guess what he does not do? Changes the message of Christ." (36 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "We preach Christ crucified. No matter what anybody around us, the culture around us tells us, no matter what anybody else says against us, no matter who's at our doors, no matter who's coming at us, we preach Christ crucified. Paul says it like this. But we preach Christ crucified. A stumbling block to Jews and folly to Gentiles. Meaning this, that no matter what we think we have, no matter how much we think we can say, no matter how much relational collateral we have, that we preach Christ crucified because it's the only message that we have that matters as a church and as a people." (48 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "We as followers of Jesus need to understand that our job is not just to say Jesus and run away, but it's to sit and stay with the people. And as they have questions, as they have different reactions, we sit and talk with them. And yes, sometimes the persecution's so bad that you have to run. But the majority of the time, we have to sit." (17 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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