Sermons on Compassion (Page 2)
Jerusalem the Capital of Athens (Acts 17:16-34)
Introduction Tertullian, “What indeed has Athens to do with Jerusalem?”1 What is the proper relationship between the Church and the culture? Jerusalem versus Athens: “I have nothing to learn from culture, but listen to me.” Athens versus Jerusalem: “I will adjust my faith according to cultural recommendations.” Jerusalem segregated from Athens: “My faith is a private matter, separate from my view of everything else.” Jerusalem integrated with Athens: “I pick and choose aspects from my faith and the culture to determine my actions.” Jerusalem…
The Defense Rests (Acts 7:54-8:1a)
Stephen has been presenting his defense against the accusations of false witnesses that he was speaking “blasphemous words against Moses and God” (6:11) as well as “speaking words against this holy place and the law” (6:13). Read Acts 7:54-8:1a Let’s keep in mind where we are. This community has been increasing daily since Pentecost. The church has experienced rapid growth, but it has not been widespread. The growth has occurred within Jerusalem. As we see from 8:1-4, Stephen’s death serves…
- 1
- 2