Known God

March 09, 2015 Monday Message:

Paul: “I found an altar with the words, ‘To an Unknown God.’” from Acts 17:23 CEV

Humans have an innate sense that a power greater than themselves created the universe, the power that we call God. God deserves worship, and the Bible says that mankind was made for worship, and that’s what all humans seem to do.

Time after time, when researchers uncover unknown tribes in remote parts of the world, we find that they have invented gods to worship, often quite an elaborate system of gods. This is what Paul encountered as he entered the Areopagus in Athens. They had gods for the sun, the moon and the earth; for rain, fair weather and abundant crops; and for health and healing. They had even erected an altar “to an unknown God,” in an attempt to not overlook anyone.

So they were seeking a god, and Paul had first-hand knowledge of the one who rose from the dead! This was no chance encounter! In his younger days, Paul might have belligerently confronted everyone, told them how wrong they were, but by now he’s more easy-going. He simply tells the Good News story, explaining what he knows. Some believe, some aren’t convinced, and some want to hear more at another time.

We’re called to be like Paul, to share the Good News story when opportunity presents itself, not in a belligerent or confrontational way, but with love and kindness. Some will believe, some won’t be convinced, and some will want to learn more at another time. We’re responsible for the effort, for a willingness to serve; the outcome is up to the Lord.

Norton Lawellin

Each Sunday, Jesus in the City Fellowship (JICF) gathers at 10 a.m. in the North end (gym) of the Oliver Ministry Building, 2647 Bloomington Ave., Minneapolis. This week, Mar. 15, Pastor Michael Pilla continues our journey through Acts.