Background:
Athens had been a capital of an empire, conquered by Roman it was allowed self-governance. During this time it was the intellectual and cultural hub of the region.
Epicurean (followed Greek philosopher Epicurus 341-270 BC)- The chief purpose of man is to achieve happiness. Do we have Epicureans in our earthly dwelling?
Stoicism- pantheistic monism or believed in many gods. Also that those gods are merely the spirit of reason of the universe. They practice happiness and self-sufficiency. Do we have any Stoics in our earthly dwelling?
- 16-21 What was Paul trying to do? He recognized that their worship did not align with God’s Kingdom. They were missing the key factor, worshiping Jesus Christ alone. He wants them to know the real King! He wants them to enjoy Jesus forever! He sees their idol worship and the Holy Spirit, trumpets that they need Jesus! You’re thinking well this is Athens, we don’t have to worry. We’ll let’s recall the idols in our lives.
Recognizes that Authority Belongs to the One True King vv.22-28
Matthew 28:18 “And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.”
We are heralds of the King! The people of this kingdom don’t realize they must become citizens of Christ Kingdom until they hear. Good news is not good news unless they know how bad there condition is. If we recognize Jesus has all authority, we’ll be obedient to serve Him in making disciples. If our heartbeat is not to bring glory to Christ, than you’re not His! “Every knee well bow, every tongue will confess…”, either out of regard or regret!
Renounces Allegiants to Other Kings and Kingdoms vv.29-31
Philippians 3:18-21 “For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ. 19 Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things. 20 But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself.”
James 4:8 “Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you, Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.”
Resides in Absolute Hope Even Behind Enemy Lines v.32
Romans 8:18 “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.”
Hebrews 12:28-29 “Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe, 29 for our God is a consuming fire.”
Rejoices in the Adoption by the King v.34
Notice I didn’t say rejoices in amazement of the kingdom. You don’t love the kingdom unless you love the King! The inheritance of the Kingdom is a benefit of being a citizen, but you cannot inherit the kingdom or be its citizen unless we are adopted by the King!
Revelation 21:1-6, 22:1-5, 16-17
I’ve read the last page of the Bible. It’s all going to turn out all right. Billy Graham