Imagine strolling through a foreign city and stumbling upon an altar dedicated to an “unknown god.” This is exactly what the Apostle Paul encountered in Athens, as recorded in Acts 17:23:
“For as I walked around and carefully observed your objects of worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: ‘To the Unknown God.’ What therefore you worship as unknown, this I proclaim to you.”
Acts 17:23
A City Steeped in Idols
Athens was a center of philosophy and religion in the ancient world. The city boasted numerous temples and altars dedicated to various gods.
However, the altar to the “unknown god” intrigued Paul. It hinted at a human yearning for something beyond the known deities.
Paul’s Message
Paul seized this opportunity to share the message of the one true God, the God he worshiped – the God revealed in Jesus Christ.
He wasn’t condemning their worship of unknown gods, but rather offering them the truth he had found.
A Call to Seek Truth
Acts 17:23 holds a powerful message for us today:
- A Universal Longing: The altar to the unknown god reflects a universal human desire for a higher power, a connection with something beyond ourselves.
- Openness to Discovery: The Athenians weren’t opposed to the idea of an unknown god. This openness can be a starting point for seeking truth about Jesus.
- God’s Revelation in Christ: The verse highlights Christianity’s claim that God is not unknowable. He has revealed Himself through Jesus Christ.
Our Journey of Faith
Many people today grapple with questions about God’s existence and nature. Acts 17:23 encourages us to:
- Acknowledge Our Longing: Recognize that our desire for something more is a natural human yearning.
- Consider the Evidence: The Bible offers a compelling message about God’s love, plan, and purpose for humanity.
The Search for Meaning
The human search for meaning and purpose is a fundamental part of our existence. Acts 17:23 reminds us that there is more to the story. It challenges us to keep searching, to ask questions, and to be open to the truth that the “unknown god” is actually knowable through Jesus Christ.