Discovering Our Shared Origin, God’s Purposeful Plan, and the Power of Seeking Him Together
There are some verses in the Bible that speak right into the heart of what it means to be human. Acts 17:26 is one of those verses. It’s a simple but profound reminder, and in our divided world, its message might be more important today than ever. Let’s take a closer look at what this verse means, the context in which Paul spoke it, and why it matters for how we see ourselves—and each other—right now.
One Ancestor, One Family
Acts 17:26 says, “From one man he made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands.” In plain language, this means that God made every person on earth from a common ancestor. No matter our differences—whether they’re about culture, language, or skin color—we all come from the same starting point. We’re one big human family. This isn’t just a comforting thought; it’s a foundation for seeing every person with dignity and respect.
God’s Sovereign Plan
But the verse doesn’t stop with our shared origin. It tells us that God is in control of history. He determines “the times set for them and the exact places where they should live.” That means our lives aren’t random. Where we’re born, the era we live in, the communities we’re part of—these are not accidents. God has a plan for every nation and every person. He’s at work behind the scenes, guiding the story of humanity with wisdom and care.
Purposeful Placement: Seeking and Finding God
Why would God go to such lengths, crafting the world and placing each of us right where we are? The next verse gives us a clue: “God did this so that they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him.” God’s design is intentional. He wants every one of us to know Him, to seek Him, and to discover the purpose He has for us. Our differences and locations are not barriers—they’re part of the invitation to draw closer to the One who made us.
Paul in Athens: One God vs. Many gods
When Paul spoke these words, he was standing in Athens, a city famous for its many gods and religious debates. The Greeks believed in a whole pantheon—gods of war, love, wisdom, and more—each with their own stories and followers. Paul’s message was radical: There is one true God, and He made everyone. Paul wasn’t just debating theology. He was challenging the idea that people are divided by fate or the favor of different gods. Instead, Paul said, “We’re all in this together, created by the same God who wants a relationship with us.”
Implications for Today: Unity, Equality, and Rejecting Prejudice
What does this mean for us, here and now? First, it means that every form of prejudice, racism, or oppression has no place among those who follow God. If we’re all from one ancestor, there’s no room to look down on anyone else. Our backgrounds and cultures may be different, but our value comes from the same Creator. This truth calls us to unity and equality, not just in words but in how we treat others every day.
Practical Takeaways
· See everyone as family. Treat strangers, neighbors, and even those you disagree with as fellow members of humanity.
· Embrace your place in God’s story. You are where you are for a reason. Look for ways God might be inviting you to seek Him and make a difference where you live.
· Reject prejudice and favoritism. Stand against racism and bias, whether in your heart or in your community.
· Celebrate diversity. Our differences are not mistakes—they are part of God’s beautiful design to help us learn, grow, and reflect His creativity.
· Encourage others to seek God. Just like Paul did in Athens, help people around you see that God wants to be found by everyone, everywhere.
Conclusion: Embracing Our Shared Humanity
Acts 17:26 isn’t just an ancient statement—it’s a call to action for all of us. We’re connected by a common origin, placed purposefully by a loving God, and invited to seek Him together. In a world that often divides, let’s choose unity. Let’s see every person as a brother or sister, valued and loved by God. And let’s keep seeking, reaching, and growing—together.
Minister A Francine Green
December 2025
afrancinegreen.com 