The responsive reading for 14 May 2023 was taken from Acts 17:22-32a, 34a; and Matthew 11:28-30. Following is the commentary I provided with the responsive reading.

The primary part of the responsive reading today, follows the apostle Paul to the city of Athens. He had no plans to preach there, but was waiting for traveling companions. He walked through the city, which was filled with idols and shrines to the Greek gods. One of the idols was even dedicated to the “unknown god.”

Paul, just as we should also do, eagerly accepted an opportunity to spread the gospel story when it presented itself. Scripture tells us Paul was distressed with the idolatry of Athens, and confronted the local synagogue regarding the matter. After going to the local synagogue, and even confronting people in the marketplace (a common meeting place); Paul was called to speak to the Areopagus council. 

Paul uses the idol to the unknown god to tell the people about the one true God of creation and His salvation plan for the world. The people there were skeptical of physical resurrection after death, and many did not believe Paul. But some did believe and became Christians. One believer mentioned in scripture was named Dionysius and was an important member of the council. 

In this passage Paul reminds us that God is the creator, and as such does not need shrines, nor human help. God provides for us and not the other way around. However, God does call us to sometimes serve as His hands, feet, and voice to bring salvation to others, and demonstrate His love.

Paul is also telling the council that until this time they were living in ignorance of the true God. He may have overlooked the bad within them, but once they heard the gospel of the true God and the salvation plan, paid for through Christ’s sacrifice; they were no longer innocent. He called them to repentance. 

The same holds true for us, in that, “While we still were sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8 NRSV); once and for all providing the path for salvation from our sins. We have to turn away from our sins i.e. repent, trusting in Jesus as our Savior.

Paul also taught that since we are all God’s children, we should not think of God as an idol of gold, silver, or stone: modeled by human hands. As Dr. Henry Blackaby wrote in both Experiencing God and Hearing God’s Voice: God is a person, and wants a loving personal relationship with us and guides us in His will.

Paul states that all nations of the earth derive their origin from Adam, and God’s expectation is that we would search for him and even find Him. Then Paul concludes, “Though indeed He is not far from each one of us.” Indeed God is close in the person of Jesus and His Holy Spirit, and reaches out to us to join in His work, and a loving relationship with Him. We just have to take the yoke of Jesus upon us and learn from him.

Praying your Mother’s Day and this week are blessed with God’s provision…

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