A Layman’s Reflection on Acts 17:24–28 and Today’s Challenges
Sometimes, in the rush of everyday life, we forget simple but powerful truths about God and our purpose on this earth. Acts 17:24–28 reminds us that God made the world and everything in it. He is Lord of heaven and earth, and He does not live in temples made by human hands. He does not need anything from us, yet He gives everyone life, breath, and everything we have.
This passage also teaches that God made all nations from one human family. That means no person, group, race, or nation is greater than another. We all come from God, and we all depend on Him. As Paul said, “In Him we live and move and have our being.”
God Is Bigger Than Our Buildings and Traditions
When Paul spoke in Athens, he was speaking to people who worshiped many gods. They even had an altar that said, “To an unknown god.” Paul used that moment to tell them about the true and living God—the Creator of all things. He wanted them to understand that God is not limited by statues, buildings, rituals, or human traditions.
This speaks to us today. We can go to church, sing songs, pray prayers, and still miss God’s heart if we do not live in truth, love, and justice. God is not impressed by outward religion if our hearts are far from Him. Faith must be more than words. It must show up in how we treat people.
Faith Must Be Shown in Action
If we say we belong to God, then our lives should reflect His character. God cares about fairness. God cares about truth. God cares about the poor, the hurting, and the rejected. He calls His people to do what is right, not only when it is easy, but also when it is hard.
The church should be a voice for truth in the world. That does not mean the church belongs to any political party. It means the church belongs to God. When leaders fail to care for people, when injustice is ignored, or when hatred is allowed to grow, the church should not be silent. God calls His people to speak with courage, wisdom, and love.
Minister A Francine Green, September 2026