What Paul Told Idol-Worshippers About the Real God
Acts 17:22-31 is a scene where the apostle Paul speaks to a crowd in Athens, Greece. These people were famous for their many statues and altars to different gods. Paul noticed they even had one labeled, “To the Unknown God.” He used this as a starting point to introduce them to the God he knew—the one true Creator.
Paul’s Audience: Not the Usual Crowd
Instead of talking to Jews (who already believed in the God of Israel), Paul spoke to people who didn’t know the Hebrew Scriptures and worshipped many different gods. So, Paul changed his approach. He didn’t talk about Jewish history or prophecy but started with what his listeners could relate to: their search for something bigger and their many altars.
Who Is the “Unknown God”?
Paul explained that the “Unknown God” they honored was actually the real Creator of everything. Unlike the Greek gods, who were thought to live far away and didn’t care much for people, Paul’s God made the whole world and is deeply involved in it. He isn’t distant or hard to reach. In fact, Paul said that God wants people to find Him and is always near.
God Doesn’t Need Us—But We Need Him
Paul pointed out that God doesn’t depend on humans for anything. He doesn’t need offerings or gifts to be happy. Instead, it’s the other way around: we depend on God for life, breath, and everything else. Our lives have value, purpose, and meaning because God made us and cares for us.
Everyone Has Worth—and a Purpose
In Athens, some people believed life was random and had no greater purpose, while others thought the universe followed unchanging laws but didn’t care about people. Paul argued differently. He said we all exist because God wants us to, and that makes each person important. Our lives have meaning because we are made by a loving Creator.
God Wants Us to Know Him
Paul told the Athenians that, in the past, God had overlooked people’s ignorance about who He is. But now, through Jesus, God wants everyone to recognize Him and turn away from worshipping idols or anything false. God’s goal isn’t to be mysterious or hidden; He wants a real relationship with people.
The Big Surprises: Repentance and Resurrection
Paul’s biggest points were that God asks everyone to turn away from empty religion and idols (that’s what “repent” means here) and that God has set a day to judge the world fairly. He proved this by raising Jesus from the dead. This idea of resurrection—the dead coming back to life—was shocking to the Athenians, most of whom thought it was impossible or ridiculous.
How Did People React?
Not everyone liked what Paul had to say. Some people laughed at him and rejected the message right away. Others were curious and wanted to hear more. A few believed and decided to follow Jesus. Paul knew he wouldn’t convince everyone at once, but he was planting seeds for change.
Why Does This Matter Today?
This story isn’t just about ancient Athens. Even today, people search for meaning in all sorts of places—careers, money, fame, even religious traditions—without really knowing the true God. Paul’s message reminds us that God is both great and personal. He made us, cares for us, and wants us to know Him. Our value and purpose don’t come from what we do or what we have but from the God who created us.
In short, Acts 17:22-31 shows that God isn’t a distant mystery or an “unknown” anything. He wants to be known, loved, and trusted—and He invites everyone to discover that for themselves.
Minister A Francine Green
August 2025
afrancinegreen.com 