The Scoffers
Acts 17:32 (NET)
"Now when they heard about the resurrection of the dead, some began to scoff, but others said, ‘We will hear you again about this.’"
The reality of living out your faith in a world filled with skepticism is something every believer must confront. Like Paul in Athens, we often find ourselves surrounded by those who dismiss our beliefs, ridicule our convictions, and mock our faith. Scoffers are not a new phenomenon; they existed in Paul’s time and continue to exist today. They may be colleagues, family members, or even friends who seem resistant to the message of the Gospel. It’s easy to feel discouraged when faced with such opposition, but it’s crucial to remember that our role is to remain faithful in sowing the seeds of the Gospel, even when the soil appears barren.
Paul’s encounter with the Epicurean and Stoic philosophers in Athens serves as a powerful example of how to handle scoffers. Despite their mocking and dismissive attitudes, Paul did not retreat or soften his message. Instead, he boldly proclaimed the truth about Jesus and the resurrection. The lesson here is that we must not allow the scoffers to silence us. Our mission is not to convince everyone or to be liked by all, but to faithfully deliver the message God has entrusted to us. As Jesus instructed His disciples, “If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your message, shake the dust off your feet as you leave that house or town” (Matthew 10:14, NET). There comes a time when we must move on, trusting that God will work in the hearts of those we leave behind.
While some may scoff, others will listen and eventually believe. Paul’s persistence in Athens wasn’t in vain. Among those who heard him, a few—such as Dionysius and Damaris—believed and joined him. This reminds us that while we may face rejection, we must not lose hope. Our responsibility is to plant the seeds; it’s God who makes them grow. We are not called to judge our effectiveness by the number of immediate conversions, but by our obedience to share the Gospel. The scoffers may not be ready to receive the message now, but we must trust that the Holy Spirit can soften even the hardest of hearts in due time.
Let us be encouraged by Paul’s example and remain steadfast in our witness, knowing that our labor is not in vain. We may not see the fruit immediately, but every word spoken in truth, every act of kindness, and every testimony shared is a seed planted. And while some seeds may fall on rocky ground, others will take root in the fertile soil of a heart ready to receive the truth.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, give us the strength and courage to stand firm in our faith, even when we face scoffers. Help us to trust in Your timing and not be discouraged by those who reject Your message. May we continue to sow seeds of truth and love, knowing that You are the one who brings the harvest. Soften the hearts of those who hear Your Word, and let Your Spirit work in their lives. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
"Now when they heard about the resurrection of the dead, some began to scoff, but others said, ‘We will hear you again about this.’"
The reality of living out your faith in a world filled with skepticism is something every believer must confront. Like Paul in Athens, we often find ourselves surrounded by those who dismiss our beliefs, ridicule our convictions, and mock our faith. Scoffers are not a new phenomenon; they existed in Paul’s time and continue to exist today. They may be colleagues, family members, or even friends who seem resistant to the message of the Gospel. It’s easy to feel discouraged when faced with such opposition, but it’s crucial to remember that our role is to remain faithful in sowing the seeds of the Gospel, even when the soil appears barren.
Paul’s encounter with the Epicurean and Stoic philosophers in Athens serves as a powerful example of how to handle scoffers. Despite their mocking and dismissive attitudes, Paul did not retreat or soften his message. Instead, he boldly proclaimed the truth about Jesus and the resurrection. The lesson here is that we must not allow the scoffers to silence us. Our mission is not to convince everyone or to be liked by all, but to faithfully deliver the message God has entrusted to us. As Jesus instructed His disciples, “If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your message, shake the dust off your feet as you leave that house or town” (Matthew 10:14, NET). There comes a time when we must move on, trusting that God will work in the hearts of those we leave behind.
While some may scoff, others will listen and eventually believe. Paul’s persistence in Athens wasn’t in vain. Among those who heard him, a few—such as Dionysius and Damaris—believed and joined him. This reminds us that while we may face rejection, we must not lose hope. Our responsibility is to plant the seeds; it’s God who makes them grow. We are not called to judge our effectiveness by the number of immediate conversions, but by our obedience to share the Gospel. The scoffers may not be ready to receive the message now, but we must trust that the Holy Spirit can soften even the hardest of hearts in due time.
Let us be encouraged by Paul’s example and remain steadfast in our witness, knowing that our labor is not in vain. We may not see the fruit immediately, but every word spoken in truth, every act of kindness, and every testimony shared is a seed planted. And while some seeds may fall on rocky ground, others will take root in the fertile soil of a heart ready to receive the truth.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, give us the strength and courage to stand firm in our faith, even when we face scoffers. Help us to trust in Your timing and not be discouraged by those who reject Your message. May we continue to sow seeds of truth and love, knowing that You are the one who brings the harvest. Soften the hearts of those who hear Your Word, and let Your Spirit work in their lives. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
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