A Reasoned Witness Rooted in the Old Testament

Acts 17:1–3 (NASB95) 

1Now when they had traveled through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where there was a synagogue of the Jews. 2And according to Paul’s custom, he went to them, and for three Sabbaths reasoned with them from the Scriptures, 3explaining and giving evidence that the Christ had to suffer and rise again from the dead, and saying, “This Jesus whom I am proclaiming to you is the Christ.” 

 

In this brief narrative, we see Paul entering the synagogue in Thessalonica with a bold and thoughtful approach that mirrors the method of Jesus. Paul methodically reasons from the sacred texts of the Old Testament, demonstrating that the story of Jesus’ suffering and resurrection is not an isolated event but the fulfillment of ancient prophetic promises. By engaging in dialogue rooted in these scriptures—as was His custom—Paul shows that the Old Testament remains the foundation of our faith. His arguments, based on the continuity of God’s redemptive plan, affirm that the truth of Jesus is integrally connected to the longstanding history recorded in the Hebrew Scriptures. This powerful example not only challenges opposition but also invites all who listen to see that God’s plan, as foretold in the Old Testament, reaches its pinnacle in Jesus. 

Today, as we seek to communicate the Gospel in a complex world, we can learn much from Paul’s method of reasoning from the Old Testament. His approach reminds us that engaging deeply with these sacred texts enhances our teaching and enriches our faith. Modern believers are encouraged to recognize that our understanding of God’s redemptive work is built upon the foundation of ancient scripture, making it vital to integrate Old Testament study within our ministries. By doing so, we equip ourselves with the wisdom necessary to address questions, foster richer dialogue, and bridge the gap between ancient promise and contemporary experience—ensuring that the timeless truths of the Bible remain central to our witness and ministry. 

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Lessons from a Timeless Encounter

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Honor Restored and Humility Displayed