DB_Pauline Apologetics

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Arkansas Tech University *

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Religion

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Apr 3, 2024

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docx

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Describe the differences between Paul’s sermon in the Areopagus (Acts 17) and his teaching to the Corinthians on the wisdom of God and foolishness of men (1 Corinthians 2). What are the different ways in which Paul uses reason? Which of the two approaches is most applicable to your own ministry context and why? Apostle Paul's messages in Areopagus and to the Corinthians diverge significantly in their approach to conveying the wisdom of God and critiquing human folly. In Areopagus, Paul directly engages the Athenians, leveraging his cultural awareness, scriptural knowledge, early Christian experience, and discipleship under Jesus. Despite his distress over idolatry, Paul maintains a compassionate, wise, and respectful demeanor akin to Jesus in His engagements. Dulles notes Paul’s tactful winning of goodwill (captatio benevolentiae), complimenting the Athenians on their religiousness, using an altar to an "unknown god" as a segue to declare the truth about God. 1 Paul's focus on a self-sufficient God, humanity's need for dependence, condemnation of idolatry, and a call to repentance echoes the prophetic tradition. Notably, the rejection of his teaching on the Resurrection reveals the challenge of introducing Christology to the Romans at Athens. The teaching on the Resurrection presented by Paul faced skepticism and disbelief, especially among the intellectually inclined audience in Athens. Even among those who had embraced Christianity, as revealed in 1 Corinthians, the doctrine encountered confusion and opposition. Paul's defense of this crucial aspect of Christian belief during his address to the Athenians achieved some success when he spoke in broad terms about God and religion. However, the turning point occurred when he introduced Christology—leading to the rejection of his message. 2 Alternatively, Paul adopts a different apologetic approach when teaching the Corinthians about God's wisdom and human foolishness. In 1 Corinthians 2:1, he emphasizes the testimony about God, specifically the cross, rather than eloquence or human wisdom. Paul distinguishes between human and divine wisdom, highlighting the Spirit's role in providing understanding and wisdom to believers in 1 Corinthians 2:6-9. In verses 10-16 of the same passage, Paul clarifies the absolute privilege of receiving divine revelation, understanding the divine truth, and how God's wisdom is revealed through apostles and the Spirit. This teaching-focused method emphasizes the transformative power of God's wisdom revealed by the Holy Spirit. When reflecting on the applicability to my ministry, my inclination leans towards adopting the Areopagus method. However, I recognize the significance of integrating both approaches. In the context of military ministry, I often observe that meaningful Christ-centered discussions often commence by addressing the prevalent idols that subtly claim prominence in our lives, occupying the throne of our hearts—a space rightfully reserved for God alone. The Areopagus method, characterized by a direct engagement with the cultural and spiritual context, aligns with the dynamic nature of military ministry. The discussions within this setting often necessitate a thoughtful and compassionate approach, acknowledging the various idols that 1 Dulles, Avery C., A History of Apologetics (Eugene: Wipf and Stock, 1999), 22. 2 Ibid., 23.
individuals may inadvertently prioritize over their relationship with God. Just as Paul recognized the altars and religious practices in Athens, addressing the specific idols within the military context becomes a pivotal starting point for meaningful conversations. However, I also acknowledge the importance of incorporating elements of Paul's teaching approach to the Corinthians. The Corinthian method involves a more indirect and instructional form of apologetics, allowing for a deeper exploration of God's wisdom and the foolishness of human priorities. In the military context, there is a need for teaching moments beyond immediate cultural engagement, examining the transformative wisdom of God revealed by the Holy Spirit.
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