Removing Barriers and Building Bridges

Impact:

When we travel throughout the world we enter different time zones. In order to be in sync with the locals in the area, it’s important to change our clocks so that we know the correct time in that area. Similarly, individual cities have different cultures and ways that they believe and interpret the world. And within every city there are various sub-cultures that are even more unique.

When Paul and Silas traveled to Thessalonica, Paul reasoned with the people using the Scriptures to prove to them the purpose of Jesus’ death and resurrection. (Acts 17:1-9) Then when they traveled to Berea, Paul did the same thing and many people studied the Scriptures to see if what Paul was saying was true. As a result, many believed the Good News. (Acts 17:10-15) But when Paul traveled to Athens, he entered a whole new “time zone.” Paul changed his watch and adapted his strategy in order to share Jesus in their cultural language so they could better understand his message.

Paul was grieved by all of the meaningless idol worship in Athens, but he did not get offended or become hopeless about this city. Instead, he used their own idols as a way to introduce his message about God. Paul loved the people of Athens because God loved them.

There are people from all over the world in our cities. God has brought them to us. God wants to give us new hearts and relevant strategies to reach people where they are and lead them to Jesus.

Prayer:

Jesus, help me to see Your strategies for reaching the different people groups in my city. Help me to overlook anything that offends me and see the opportunities for You to transform the people of my city.