Narrative Lectionary Key Verse for Today
“The God who made the world and everything in it, he who is Lord of heaven and earth, does not live in shrines made by human hands, nor is he served by human hands, as though he needed anything, since he himself gives to all mortals life and breath and all things.”
NL Daily Devotion for Sunday, May 3, 2026
by Dr. Kimberly Leetch, Clergy Stuff
Main Idea: Paul preached to believers of a variety of religions, teaching about the one Creator of all beings.
When in Athens, Paul took the opportunity to speak and teach about God. Athens was a place of trade of goods and ideas. People from all across the land came to Athens, bringing their cultures, ideologies, and religions. It was one of the early “melting pots.” One of the favorite pastimes was to gather at the Areopagus, a hill in Athens where gatherings and speeches took place. It was there that Paul brought his knowledge of the many other gods and idols to explain that the Jewish God was the God that created all people and all things, even those worshiping other gods.
It was a masterclass in oratory, building upon the knowledge and beliefs of those gathered to make his point instead of arguing why they were wrong. By approaching the debate in this way, he could build up rather than tear down, and eventually bring others to see why their own efforts to sacrifice for their gods and idols was in vain; the Jewish God required nothing from them but loyalty to God. He also suggested that there would soon be a day when God would send a man to judge all people for their righteousness, and he had met that man, Jesus.
It seems to be easy for believers today to skip right over the part where we honor the beliefs of those we engage with and jump right into conversion efforts. But even Paul knew that approach was not only doomed to fail but also dishonored those he was speaking with. Paul helped others grow in understanding rather than trying to squash what they already believed.
We live in a world where geography doesn’t necessarily define one’s religious beliefs. We are also living in a melting pot of cultures, ideologies, and religions. Too often we forget the decorum of debate where each perspective has a voice, and each voice also has ears.
Paul’s approach can be a helpful model for how we might engage with our neighbors who are not from a Christian background. Instead of approaching conversations as opportunities for conversion, we could come with open eyes and listening ears. Paul first learned about the gods of others before engaging in conversation. How much richer might our own faith be if we allowed ourselves the privilege of looking and hearing the perspectives of others!
