The Greatest Story
"To be a person is to have a story to tell."
Isak Dinesen, Danish author known for her memoir Out of Africa
BREAKING THE ICE
Some people are of the belief that religion and politics are taboo subjects among friends; others thrive on these conversations. Where do you fall? How do you feel when you are in the company of those that are like-minded? How about those who have different convictions? Is it easier for you to share your story if you are among like-minded people? What tools have you used to build bridges across divides with those who have different convictions?
REFLECTION
In Acts 17:22–34, Paul stands before the Areopagus in Athens—a place brimming with philosophy, idols, and curiosity. He doesn’t begin with condemnation or doctrine. Instead, he starts with observation and connection: “I see that in every way you are very religious.” Paul then tells the story of the "unknown god" and bridges it to the living God, the Creator who is not far from any of us.
This moment is a masterclass in storytelling as evangelism. Paul meets people where they are, speaks their language, and shares a narrative that invites rather than alienates. His approach reminds us that our stories — especially those of transformation, struggle, and grace — can be powerful bridges to deeper conversations about faith.
Telling our story isn’t just about recounting events. It’s about revealing the fingerprints of God in our lives. When we share authentically, we offer others a glimpse into how the divine intersects with the ordinary. And like Paul, we might find that some will scoff, some will ponder, and some will say, “I want to hear more.”
WRESTLING WITH THE WORD
Read Act 17:22-34
- Athens had a very forward-thinking culture, with great art, literature and philosophy. What was Paul’s reaction to the culture around him in Athens?
- In what ways did Paul find common ground with the Athenians he was trying to reach? What did he challenge?
- What does Paul declare about this God that they did not know? What aspects of God’s nature and character did he include?
NEXT STEPS
- Where might we have built shrines to an “unknown god” in our culture?
- Paul communicated in a way that people wanted to hear more. How did Paul invite others to think about his message about God?
- What are some specific ways you would explain the gospel differently to a person without any church or religious background?
- How has the practice of your faith impacted your family? Your community? The world?
PRAYER
Gracious God, help your church be a place where love is evidenced in extraordinary ways. Give us words and actions that demonstrate humility, patience, courage and faith. Help us to live in a way that leads to belief in you. Amen.