Scripture Union Daily Guide 10 November 2021 Wednesday Message
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Topic: A New Teaching
Opening Prayer: May the meditation of my heart be acceptable unto you, O Lord as I read from your word.
Scripture: Acts 17:16-34
Question(s) for Reflection
• Is there any example for me to follow or not to follow?
Outline: Notice what pushed Paul to action in v.16. The Jews have lived in Athens and gone about their religious business without being moved by the all-embracing idolatry around them. Are we distressed by the idolatry and fake Christianity that is all around us? Only a distressed spirit will move us to share the gospel with our neighbours. We saw yesterday that Paul’s teaching was firmly rooted in the Jewish ancient scripture.
In Athens, the ‘new teaching’ was rooted in general knowledge; God the creator and sustainer of the universe. He quoted not from scripture, but their poets. He did not preach the message of Zion on Mars Hill. The synagogue message was distinct from that proclaimed in the marketplace. Read vs.16-17 and 22-31 again and note the lessons we should learn from Paul as we seek to share the gospel message with people around us.
The listeners’ varied responses should be expected (vs.32-34). Thank God for those who accept our message, but we must never be discouraged by those who respond by sneering or even persecuting us. Ours is to share the message clearly and relevantly. It’s the Holy Spirit who brings conviction and conversion.
• Any new insight or reinforcement of what you already know?
Closing Prayer
• Lord, grant us wisdom as we engage people with the gospel
• Pray against errors, false doctrines and unhealthy competition among Church leaders.
Offer a prayer of faith in line with Romans 12:14; Ezra 9-10; 2 Tim. 4
Scripture Union Daily Guide 10 November 2021. Scripture Union is an international, interdenominational, evangelical Christian organization. It was founded in 1867, and works in partnership with individuals and churches across the world. The organization’s stated aim is to use the Bible to inspire children, young people and adults to know God.