Tag: Acts 18

Whose Praise Do You Seek?

Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 3 are a profound reminder that the foundation of our lives and ministries must be Jesus Christ. Everything we build on that foundation will ultimately be tested by fire, revealing whether it was done for God’s glory or to gain the fleeting approval of others. It’s tempting to seek praise from people, but Paul makes it clear that our work is ultimately evaluated by God, not by human standards.

When we live to please others, we risk compromising God’s call on our lives. Paul cautions the Corinthians not to boast in human leaders or wisdom because they belong to Christ, and Christ belongs to God (1 Corinthians 3:21–23). This realignment of perspective is crucial. If we’re ashamed to stand firm in God’s truth because it might make us unpopular, we’re ultimately ashamed of Him—and that’s a sobering thought. Jesus Himself said, “For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words…the Son of Man will be ashamed of that person when He comes in His glory” (Luke 9:26).

This doesn’t mean we should actively seek to upset people or ignore the importance of kindness. As Paul says in Romans 12:18, “If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all people.” However, when faced with a choice between obedience to God and the approval of man, the answer should always be clear. Pleasing God isn’t about arrogance or defiance but about faithfulness.

In a world that increasingly prioritizes popularity and consensus, ask yourself: Whose praise do you seek? Are your decisions shaped more by fear of disapproval or by a desire to hear “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:23)? Living for God’s glory may not always make sense to others, but it’s the only life that will stand the test of eternity.

Common Ground

The Apostle Paul’s encounter with the thinkers at Mars Hill is one of the New Testament’s most striking examples of how to engage a diverse audience with the Gospel. As Paul stood before the Areopagus, he didn’t begin with condemnation or alienating truths. Instead, he sought common ground. Pointing out their altar inscribed “To an unknown god,” Paul started with something familiar to them—a gesture of respect for their religious curiosity—and built his case for the truth of the Gospel.

This approach reminds us of the wisdom in meeting people where they are. Paul didn’t dilute his message to win favor, nor did he shy away from proclaiming Christ. Rather, he crafted his words in a way that first invited his listeners to lean in. By acknowledging their cultural context, he effectively disarmed them and made them open to the truth. He even quoted their own poets to illustrate God’s closeness to humanity—a brilliant move that demonstrated his understanding of their world.

How often do we focus more on winning arguments than on winning hearts? The Gospel itself is unchanging, but the way we present it can adapt to the people we are speaking with. Paul’s approach challenges us to think creatively and compassionately. It’s not about manipulating conversations but about being wise in how we engage others. Are we actively looking for common ground in our discussions about faith? Are we listening and seeking to understand before we speak?

Ultimately, Paul’s message at Mars Hill was bold: the unknown god they worshiped was, in fact, the one true God, revealed in Jesus Christ. This moment wasn’t just a clever rhetorical victory; it was an act of love. Paul used his words to call people out of ignorance and into the light of truth.

Our own conversations about faith can reflect this same heart. Whether it’s a debate with a skeptic, a deep discussion with a seeker, or a passing moment with a stranger, we have the opportunity to mirror Paul’s method of Gospel-centered dialogue. It begins by seeing people not as opponents but as image-bearers of God, worthy of respect and capable of receiving His truth. When we start with what is shared and move toward the hope of Christ, we echo Paul’s boldness and his love.