Sometimes we forget that the Apostles faced challenges that are similar to ours. For example, when St. Paul is preaching to the Athenians, he is speaking to people who had a foundation of pagan culture.
We might describe our post-modern times as a very secular culture, full of idols such as money, cars, power, and other materialistic objects and ideals.
In spite of his challenges, St. Paul shows us how we can share the faith amidst a secular or non-Christian culture. As he presented the gospel to people who knew nothing about God’s plan of salvation, he wasn’t afraid to find common ground.
If pagan teachers spoke of the truth, then Paul would affirm it as he quoted their philosophers, and show that God is indeed Lord over all.
But notice Paul doesn’t change or water down God’s revelation to reach this culture. He’s careful and clear to make sure his listeners know the authentic gospel message of Jesus. He tells of Jesus’ claims and how Jesus was resurrected from the dead.
If we think Catholic teaching has hot-button topics now, believe me, the resurrection from the dead was scandalous to the first century Greek thinkers and leaders.
So, what else can we learn from St. Paul? Well, first, he knew the true teaching of Jesus. That’s our first step, to listen and then to ask our own questions to understand better. Second, it’s important to know what our family and friends know and believe. We can talk to them as topics arise in the news or ordinary conversation. It’s then, like St. Paul, we can find common ground to build upon.
But, we must know our faith to be able to respond to objections and questions from others.
We can also learn from St. Paul that we should be careful to measure our effectiveness in these efforts. Although St. Paul gave an excellent explanation of what he believed, the results were limited to just a few coming to believe just afterward.
However, all these centuries later, people are still coming to know the saving message of Jesus through St. Paul’s words. His lasting influence in Athens and throughout the Mediterranean world and beyond is memorialized with the text of his speech on a bronze plaque at the foot of the trail that leads to the Areopagus.
My brothers and sisters, our words may never be etched into a memorial; however, they can, with the grace of God, touch a person’s heart and mind and help them come to know or grow closer to Jesus.
May we listen, pray, and reflect on His Word, and listen to those around us, so we can be like St. Paul and truly share the saving gospel message, beginning in our homes.
May God bless you and your families this holy day!
