While Paul was waiting for [Silas and Timothy to rejoin him now that he was] in Athens, he was deeply troubled by all the idols he saw everywhere in the city. He went to the synagogue to reason with the Jews and the God-fearing Gentiles, and he spoke daily in the public square to all who happened to be there. — Acts 17:16-17 NLT
Religious idolatry was rampant in Paul’s world. Athens was known for its beautiful temples, cult prostitution that went with the temples and idolatry, and the discussion of religious and intellectual philosophies. All of these false, pagan, pseudo-spiritual practices were woven into the fabric of commerce, politics, and everyday life in Athens. These misleading religious practices led people farther away from the godly character, gracious compassion, and faithful lovingkindness of the one true God. Paul was deeply troubled by the trappings of idolatry and all that went with them.
Today our hearts are troubled and broken by all the false notions of God peddled today by our modern philosophies, religions, and anti-God practices. All these notions masquerade as ways to deliver ourselves from things that cause us insecurity and fear.
Unlike the Athenians we pray for God to come down, bringing God’s kingdom which is the ultimate solution for every human problem.
Questions:
- How are you tempted to create your own forms of security?
- What would you say happens to you when you place your trust in these counterfeit gods?