Unshaken: Is the Bible True? Apologetics + Trustworthiness

Faith in the Marketplace: Engaging with Doubt

Bible Passage: Acts 17:22–34

Summary: In Acts 17:22-34, the Apostle Paul addresses the Areopagus in Athens, presenting the gospel and defending the faith amidst a culture steeped in pluralism and idolatry. He engages with the Athenian philosophers and articulates the truth of Christianity in a way that connects with their understanding and belief systems.

Application: It will encourage students to understand that their faith can stand up to scrutiny and provides tools for engaging with doubts and differing beliefs. It highlights the importance of thoughtful conversation about faith and encourages them to see that questions are opportunities for deeper understanding and connection. It will also help them leanr how to protect and defend the bible.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that believers are called to be active participants in conversations about faith, armed with the knowledge of God's truth and where it came from, and equipped to respond to challenges and questions. It emphasizes that genuine faith can coexist with critical thinking and inquiry.

How this passage could point to Christ: In the context of the Bible, the sermon highlights that Christ is not only the answer to philosophical and existential questions but also the fulfillment of the longings for truth and meaning present in every culture. Paul's message points to Jesus as the resurrected Lord, who offers hope and reconciliation to all people.

Big Idea: Engaging with our faith in a questioning world enables us to reveal the truth of Christ and invite others into a transformative relationship with Him.

1. Begin with Their Beliefs

Acts 17:22–24

Start by emphasizing how Paul begins by recognizing the Athenian's religious searching and connects his message to their existing beliefs. This sets the stage for engaging in meaningful dialogue by finding common ground. While also naming the defences for God.

2. Emphasize the Eternal Creator

Acts 17:25–28

Talk about how Paul introduces the truth of a Creator God, who is not confined by human hands or temples, and is the source of all life. Emphasizing that understanding God correctly is crucial to engaging with others about faith. Encouraging them to defend their beliefs with confidence in God's sovereignty is key.

3. Call for Christ-Centered Change

Acts 17:29–31

Maybe highlight the call for repentance and the assurance of judgment through a resurrected Jesus. This section can be used to underscore the necessity of repentance and the central truth of Christ's resurrection as the cornerstone of faith.

4. Persevere Amidst Perplexity

Acts 17:32–34

You could conclude with the varied responses to Paul's message, from ridicule to belief. Reassure that not everyone will accept the message of the gospel, yet some will be drawn to the truth of Christ. This encourages perseverance in sharing the gospel and trusting God with the results, knowing that genuine faith can grow even amidst doubt and skepticism.