You probably have heard about Daryl
Witmer’s visit to our church (coming up Sunday). I have announced that he
represents a ministry called Areopagus II America. Not everyone may understand
the name “Areopagus”, so I thought I’d give you a little background. I was
greatly blessed (back in 1995 was it?) by our church you when you gave me a
trip to the Holy Land. It was a wonderful experience which included two days in
Greece. While there we had the opportunity to tour the Acropolis. While on our
way up to the Acropolis we stopped at Mars Hill, which is in its shadow. So
many people have walked on it over the centuries that the stone is all smooth
(treacherous when wet). There is a beautiful view of Athens there, but it is
lower than the Acropolis.
The name “Mars Hill” is a Roman term
for (the Greek) Areopagus. It is 377 feet high and stands northwest of the
Acropolis. In ancient times the Areopagus court assembled here. This court
consisted of city fathers and in early times exercised complete authority over
all political and religious matters. In the Apostle Paul’s time (Roman Empire)
it was primarily educational and religious. In Acts 17 Paul delivered a famous
speech there. I can imagine he would have been impressed by certain aspects of Athens.
I know I was, and it was 2000 years later. In Paul’s time the buildings must
have been magnificent. You can read about all of Paul’s experience in verses
16-33. Mainly what happens is that Paul meets a group of philosophers and
preaches to them the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the resurrection. They bring
him to the city fathers at the Areopagus and he speaks in a much more detailed
way, giving them an “answer” for the faith he had in Christ. At the mention of
the resurrection (at the end of his remarks) these men responded in three
different ways: some sneered, some wanted to hear more, and some believed.
This model has been a foundation of
apologetics (the branch of theology concerned with the defense, proof, and
rational justification of Christianity) ever since. The goal of apologetics is
similar to Paul’s: to gain a hearing for the Gospel wherever and whenever
possible, especially in the marketplace and in the marketplace of ideas. It is
hoped that gaining a hearing for the Gospel will result in belief, though it is
recognized that skepticism and uncertainty are two likely responses as well.
Areopagus II America Institute is a contemporary, adapted construct of the
original Areopagus, offering information and perspective on various worldviews
and thought forms from a distinctly Christian perspective. I am very excited
for Daryl’s visit and hope you will be too. Please keep Sunday in prayer, do
your best to attend, and consider inviting a guest.
Each one of us lives or works on or
near an Areopagus of sorts. We interact with people in the realm of ideas. Like
Paul, we have a Gospel to share. When we do, some may sneer. Others may want to
know more. And some may trust Christ. One thing is sure. None of those
responses will take place if we do not share Christ. God has given us something
to talk about. Let us prepare ourselves to speak knowledgeably, boldly, and
respectfully when we speak about Christ. But let’s talk about Christ.
Acts 17:22 (NIV) 22 Paul then stood
up in the meeting of the Areopagus and said: "Men of Athens! I see that in
every way you are very religious…
1 Peter 3:15-16
(NIV) 15 But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be
prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the
hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, 16 keeping
a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good
behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.
PRAYER: “Father, thank
You for those who are gifted and knowledgeable and can help us know better how
to have an answer for the faith we have. Teach us to hunger for more. Thanks. In Jesus’ name, AMEN.”
Jesus
Christ is Lord!
Scott
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