For though I am free from all men, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win the more… I have become all things to all men, that I might by all means save some.
Paul never compromised the gospel, but he tailored his approach to those he was trying to win!
In Acts 17 we find Paul in Athens, reasoning in the synagogue with the Jews, and debating the Greek philosophers and religious leaders on Mars Hill. He knew what these philosophers believed and he quoted their own poets to turn their attention to God.
People haven’t changed in 2,000 years. In Paul’s day, “all the Athenians…spent their time doing nothing but talking about and listening to the latest ideas” Acts 17:21. They didn’t even have the help of CNN’s 24 hour coverage.
Like the Athenians, we avidly discuss all the latest ideas. The Mars Hill debate is still going on—are you able to represent your Christian beliefs confidently when your fellow citizens parrot the latest thing they’ve heard on Oprah and Phil? Do you know how to bring the Bible into the discussion in a relevant manner?
Turning on the light means bringing God’s word to bear on every situation and every issue. Many people involved in the current debate think the Bible doesn’t speak to modern culture because they are usually biblical illiterates.
The Bible, however, is not only a historical record; it is timeless truth. It vividly describes real, historical events that changed the world. It also speaks eternal principles in simple word pictures drawn so clearly that even children can understand them.
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