Mission to the Unreached: Part 1 – Outline

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Mission to the Unreached: Part 1

OVERVIEW

We are learning about the adventures of a man named Paul who traveled to Athens, a city with different beliefs. Instead of staying with people who thought the same as him, Paul wanted to share his faith with everyone. Throughout the week, we discovered how Paul faced challenges and reactions in Athens. He showed compassion, respect, and boldness while introducing the idea of a loving Creator. Paul’s story teaches us the importance of understanding others, finding common ground, and presenting our beliefs in a way that allows people to decide for themselves. We can follow Paul’s example to share our faith with kindness and make a positive impact on those around us.

SATURDAY – Introduction (A trip to Athens)

Lesson

Picture Paul in Athens, talking to different groups—Jews, people who believed in God but weren’t Jews, and just regular people in the marketplace – Acts 17:17

KJV 17 Therefore disputed he in the synagogue with the Jews, and with the devout persons, and in the market daily with them that met with him.

CEV 17 He went to the synagogue to speak to the Jews and to anyone who worshiped with them. Day after day he also spoke to everyone he met in the market.

Now, Paul was a Jew, and he could have stuck to talking with people like him. It would have been comfortable, like chatting with your own family. But Paul had a bigger mission – to talk to everyone, not just his own group.

He could’ve also focused on the “God-fearing” Gentiles. They had a bit of Bible knowledge, but they still needed to know Jesus. No, Paul didn’t settle for that either.

Instead, in Athens, a city known for its smart thinkers, Paul wanted to reach everyone, even those with very different beliefs from his own. Athenians didn’t know much about the history that meant so much to Paul, but he still tried to share his faith.

Ever wondered how Paul did it? Let’s find out!

EGW Commentary (Paraphrase)

Jesus cares deeply about everyone. He wants His church to share His love with the world. Even though we face challenges, we should work in a way that doesn’t create problems but instead helps everyone understand the truth about God. Just like Paul, who, in a city full of different beliefs, focused on bringing God’s message to people who had never heard it.

Conclusion

Today, we learned that Paul, a follower of Jesus, didn’t just stick to talking with people who believed the same things he did. He went out of his way to share his faith with everyone, no matter their background or beliefs.

Reflection

Do you think it’s important to talk about your beliefs with people who might not agree with you?

How can you follow Paul’s example and share your faith with kindness and respect?

SUNDAY – A Hebrew in Athens (Paul’s Visit to Athens)

Lesson

Read Acts 17:1-16

KJV 1 Now when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where was a synagogue of the Jews: 2 And Paul, as his manner was, went in unto them, and three sabbath days reasoned with them out of the scriptures, 3 Opening and alleging, that Christ must needs have suffered, and risen again from the dead; and that this Jesus, whom I preach unto you, is Christ. 4 And some of them believed, and consorted with Paul and Silas; and of the devout Greeks a great multitude, and of the chief women not a few. 5 But the Jews which believed not, moved with envy, took unto them certain lewd fellows of the baser sort, and gathered a company, and set all the city on an uproar, and assaulted the house of Jason, and sought to bring them out to the people. 6 And when they found them not, they drew Jason and certain brethren unto the rulers of the city, crying, These that have turned the world upside down are come hither also; 7 Whom Jason hath received: and these all do contrary to the decrees of Caesar, saying that there is another king, one Jesus. 8 And they troubled the people and the rulers of the city, when they heard these things. 9 And when they had taken security of Jason, and of the other, they let them go. 10 And the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night unto Berea: who coming thither went into the synagogue of the Jews. 11 These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so. 12 Therefore many of them believed; also of honourable women which were Greeks, and of men, not a few. 13 But when the Jews of Thessalonica had knowledge that the word of God was preached of Paul at Berea, they came thither also, and stirred up the people. 14 And then immediately the brethren sent away Paul to go as it were to the sea: but Silas and Timotheus abode there still. 15 And they that conducted Paul brought him unto Athens: and receiving a commandment unto Silas and Timotheus for to come to him with all speed, they departed. 16 Now while Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was stirred in him, when he saw the city wholly given to idolatry.

CEV 1 After Paul and his friends had traveled through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they went on to Thessalonica. A synagogue was in that city. 2 So as usual, Paul went there to worship, and on three Sabbaths he spoke to the people. He used the Scriptures 3 to show them that the Messiah had to suffer, but that he would rise from death. Paul also told them that Jesus is the Messiah he was preaching about. 4 Some of them believed what Paul had said, and they became followers with Paul and Silas. Some Gentiles and many important women also believed the message. 5 The Jewish leaders were jealous and got some troublemakers who hung around the marketplace to start a riot in the city. They wanted to drag Paul and Silas out to the mob, and so they went straight to Jason's home. 6 But when they did not find them there, they dragged out Jason and some of the Lord's followers. They took them to the city authorities and shouted, “Paul and Silas have been upsetting things everywhere. Now they have come here, 7 and Jason has welcomed them into his home. All of them break the laws of the Roman Emperor by claiming that someone named Jesus is king.” 8 The officials and the people were upset when they heard this. 9 So they made Jason and the other followers pay bail before letting them go. 10 That same night the Lord's followers sent Paul and Silas on to Berea, and after they arrived, they went to the synagogue. 11 The people in Berea were much nicer than those in Thessalonica, and they gladly accepted the message. Day after day they studied the Scriptures to see if these things were true. 12 Many of them put their faith in the Lord, including some important Greek women and several men. 13 When the Jewish leaders in Thessalonica heard that Paul had been preaching God's message in Berea, they went there and caused trouble by turning the crowds against Paul. 14 At once the followers sent Paul down to the coast, but Silas and Timothy stayed in Berea. 15 Some men went with Paul as far as Athens, and then returned with instructions for Silas and Timothy to join him as soon as possible. 16 While Paul was waiting in Athens, he was upset to see all the idols in the city.

This passage is like a snapshot of Paul’s time in Athens. Why did he end up there, and what did he do?

Athens was a city filled with idols, like an ancient theme park. Paul wasn’t thrilled because he believed in just one God. He felt sad seeing everyone caught up with these idols. He cared a lot about people knowing the real God.

Today, our cities may not have idols, but they have other distractions. Imagine if you cared so much that you couldn’t ignore those distractions. That’s how Paul felt.

EGW Commentary (Paraphrase)

Persecution followed Paul wherever he went, but he didn’t let it stop him. Sent to Athens, a city known for its art and culture, he saw past the beauty and felt compassion for people who didn’t know the true God. Facing challenges, Paul pressed on, determined to share the message God gave him.

Conclusion

Paul visited Athens, a city full of idols and different beliefs. Despite the challenges, he was deeply concerned for the people there, showing us the importance of caring for others.

Reflection

Are there people around you who may need to hear about your faith?

How can you show compassion to others, even if their beliefs are different from yours?

MONDAY – Paul in the Areopagus (Paul’s Marketplace Plan)

Lesson

Paul hung out in the marketplace, like a bustling ancient mall. But he didn’t chat with everyone the same way. It’s like he set up a mission station to figure out the best way to talk to different people – Acts 17:17

KJV 17 Therefore disputed he in the synagogue with the Jews, and with the devout persons, and in the market daily with them that met with him.

CEV 17 He went to the synagogue to speak to the Jews and to anyone who worshiped with them. Day after day he also spoke to everyone he met in the market.

Just like today, people believe different things. Paul knew this, and he wanted to be smart about it. He adapted to each group, kind of like having different strategies to talk to friends from school and family members.

Imagine setting up your own mini-mission station to figure out how to share what you believe. How beneficial and amazing that would that be?

EGW Commentary (Paraphrase)

In Athens, Paul faced smart and influential people, but he spoke with confidence about Jesus and the resurrection. He used their own culture and philosophy to explain his message. Paul showed that faith in Jesus goes beyond human wisdom and that knowing Christ is more valuable than anything else.

Conclusion

Paul faced different reactions from people in Athens but remained determined to share the message of Jesus. His boldness teaches us the importance of standing up for what we believe in.

Reflection

How do you react when people have different opinions from yours?

Can you think of a time when you stood up for something you believe in, like Paul did?

TUESDAY – Paul and the Unknown God (Speaking in the Big City)

Lesson

Imagine Paul in Athens, sharing his beliefs wherever he went.

Read Acts 17:18-21

KJV 18 Then certain philosophers of the Epicureans, and of the Stoicks, encountered him. And some said, What will this babbler say? other some, He seemeth to be a setter forth of strange gods: because he preached unto them Jesus, and the resurrection. 19 And they took him, and brought him unto Areopagus, saying, May we know what this new doctrine, whereof thou speakest, is? 20 For thou bringest certain strange things to our ears: we would know therefore what these things mean. 21 (For all the Athenians and strangers which were there spent their time in nothing else, but either to tell, or to hear some new thing.)

CEV 18 Some of them were Epicureans and some were Stoics, and they started arguing with him. People were asking, “What is this know-it-all trying to say?”Some even said, “Paul must be preaching about foreign gods! That's what he means when he talks about Jesus and about people rising from death.” 19 They brought Paul before a council called the Areopagus, and said, “Tell us what your new teaching is all about. 20 We have heard you say some strange things, and we want to know what you mean.” 21 More than anything else the people of Athens and the foreigners living there loved to hear and to talk about anything new.

This passage gives us a peek at how people reacted.

What happened?

People noticed Paul talking about “foreign gods.” They were curious, and they took him to a special place called the Areopagus. It’s like the ancient version of a TED Talk, but Paul wasn’t on trial; they just wanted to hear his new ideas – Acts 17:19

KJV 19 And they took him, and brought him unto Areopagus, saying, May we know what this new doctrine, whereof thou speakest, is?

CEV 19 They brought Paul before a council called the Areopagus, and said, “Tell us what your new teaching is all about.

The Athenians loved talking about new ideas, like having big brainstorming sessions. Paul, with his eloquence [fluent and persuaisive speaking], passion, and smarts, made quite an impression. Athens was like the smart city of the ancient world, and they loved discussing ideas.

EGW Commentary (Paraphrase)

Paul cleverly used their own culture to teach about God. He introduced the “Unknown God” they worshipped ignorantly and explained the real God who made everything. He emphasized that we’re all connected and encouraged seeking the Lord, who is close to us. Paul showed how God’s wisdom beats the world’s wisdom.

Conclusion

Paul complimented the Athenians and found common ground, showing respect for their beliefs. This teaches us the value of understanding others before sharing our beliefs.

Reflection

Why is it important to respect other people’s beliefs, even if you don’t agree?

How can you find common ground with someone who may have different beliefs?

WEDNESDAY – Introducing a New God (Paul’s Respectful Approach)

Lesson

Read Acts 17:22

KJV 22 Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars' hill, and said, Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious.

CEV 22 So Paul stood up in front of the council and said: People of Athens, I see that you are very religious.

In this passage we see that Paul didn’t criticize the Athenians’ beliefs. He complimented them on being very religious, showing respect for what they believed.

Imagine someone praising you for your beliefs instead of telling you they’re wrong. He even talked about an altar to an “Unknown God.”

Read Acts 17:23

KJV 23 For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, To The Unknown God. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you.

CEV 23 As I was going through your city and looking at the things you worship, I found an altar with the words, “To an Unknown God.” You worship this God, but you don't really know him. So I want to tell you about him.

In this passage we learn that Paul found common ground, appreciating their interest in spiritual things even if they were a bit off track.

As a challenge, think about finding common ground with friends who believe different things – this is exactly what Paul did.

EGW Commentary (Paraphrase)

Paul beautifully explained how God created everyone and wanted them to seek Him. His message was for all nations, and he emphasized that God created people for a purpose. True reverence for God comes from understanding His greatness and realizing His presence.

Conclusion

Paul shared the idea of a loving Creator with the Athenians, starting a conversation about a different kind of God. This shows us the power of introducing new ideas with kindness.

Reflection

How can you talk about your beliefs without making others feel judged?

Can you think of a way to share the idea of a loving God with someone who may not know about it?

THURSDAY – Crossing a Line (Getting to Know the Unknown God)

Lesson

Read Acts 17:24-27

KJV 24 God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands; 25 Neither is worshipped with men's hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things; 26 And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation; 27 That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us:

CEV 24 This God made the world and everything in it. He is Lord of heaven and earth, and he doesn't live in temples built by human hands. 25 He doesn't need help from anyone. He gives life, breath, and everything else to all people. 26 From one person God made all nations who live on earth, and he decided when and where every nation would be. 27 God has done all this, so that we will look for him and reach out and find him. He isn't far from any of us,

In this passage we see how Paul got the Athenians interested and then shared about the God he believed in. He talked about a Creator God who doesn’t need fancy temples and who loves us. This was new and intriguing for people used to gods who were unpredictable and mean.

Paul used the created world to point to God. Imagine showing your friends the beauty of nature and saying, “Look, there’s a Creator behind all this!”

EGW Commentary (Paraphrase)

Paul avoided attacking their beliefs but shared God as a loving Father. Some mocked, but others were convicted. The power of God can change hearts, but some chose to value their own wisdom over God’s. To change, we must seek God with all our hearts and yield ourselves wholly to Him.

Conclusion

Paul quoted their own writers and spoke about the resurrection of Jesus, giving people a chance to choose what they believed. This teaches us the importance of presenting our beliefs in a way that allows others to decide for themselves.

Reflection

Why is it important to let others make their own choices about what they believe?

How can you share your faith without pressuring or forcing others to agree with you?

FRIDAY – Further Thoughts (Paul’s Awesome Finish)

Lesson

Read Acts 17:28

KJV 28 For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.

CEV 28 and he gives us the power to live, to move, and to be who we are. “We are his children,” just as some of your poets have said.

In this verse we see that Paul didn’t stop; he even quoted their own writers, using their ideas to share more about Jesus.

People reacted differently – some laughed, some wanted to hear more, and some believed. The key is, they all listened. Paul wanted them to understand before deciding whether to accept or reject the message.

Imagine if everyone listened to your beliefs with an open mind before making a decision. Paul made sure they heard the message loud and clear.

Remember, just like Paul, you can be wise and respectful when sharing your beliefs. It’s about telling something awesome and important!

EGW Commentary (Paraphrase)

Reflect on the heavenly prize, understanding Satan’s enmity against God’s law, and the importance of choosing the power that rules over us. Remember that even the most unpleasant people can find deliverance in Christ, and God hears the unspoken cries of those in need.

Conclusion

The story of Paul in Athens reminds us to approach others with kindness, respect, and understanding. We can learn from his example to share our beliefs in a way that opens hearts and minds.

Reflection

What can you do differently in sharing your faith, inspired by Paul’s approach?

How might your conversations about beliefs positively impact the people around you?

LESSON SUMMARY

Mission to the Unreached: Part 1

Throughout this lesson, we follow Paul’s Athens journey, witnessing his inclusive approach to diverse groups, his adaptability in the marketplace, and his respectful engagement with Athenian beliefs. Despite challenges, Paul pressed on with compassion, introducing the idea of a loving Creator in a city of different beliefs. His story teaches the importance of understanding others, finding common ground, and presenting beliefs with kindness, allowing people to decide for themselves. Paul’s boldness, respect, and compassion inspire us to share our faith positively, making a meaningful impact on those around us, just as he did in the culturally rich and intellectually challenging city of Athens.

Saturday - Introduction (A Trip to Athens) Paul ventured beyond his comfort zone in Athens, engaging with diverse groups to share God’s message. He aimed to reach everyone, not just his own people or those already familiar with God. Ellen White emphasizes that Jesus desires His church to spread love globally, overcoming challenges, and focusing on sharing God’s message, especially with those who haven’t heard it.

Sunday - A Hebrew in Athens (Paul’s Visit to Athens) In Athens, Paul felt saddened by people caught up in idols, caring deeply about them knowing the true God. Today, distractions may differ, but the concern for others’ understanding remained. Ellen White adds that despite challenges in a cultured city, Paul pressed on, determined to share God’s message, reflecting Jesus’ compassion for those who don’t know Him.

Monday - Paul in the Areopagus (Paul’s Marketplace Plan) In the marketplace, Paul adapted his approach to diverse beliefs, like setting up a mission station. Just as people believe different things today, Paul wanted to be smart about reaching everyone. Ellen White comments that facing smart and influential people in Athens, Paul confidently shared Jesus, emphasizing that faith in Him surpasses human wisdom.

Tuesday - Paul and the Unknown God (Speaking in the Big City) Paul shared his beliefs in Athens, and people took notice, leading to an opportunity to speak at the Areopagus. Athens, known for intellectual discussions, appreciated Paul’s eloquence and passion. Ellen White notes that Paul cleverly used Athenian culture to teach about God, introducing the “Unknown God” and encouraging them to seek the Lord. He showed God’s wisdom surpasses worldly wisdom.

Wednesday - Introducing a New God (Paul’s Respectful Approach) Paul didn’t criticize Athenians’ beliefs but complimented their religiosity, finding common ground and respecting their interest in spiritual things. Ellen White emphasizes that Paul emphasized God’s purpose for all nations, fostering true reverence through understanding God’s greatness and presence.

Thursday - Crossing a Line (Getting to Know the Unknown God) Paul intrigued Athenians with his message about a loving Creator God, using the created world to point to God and presenting a new perspective for those accustomed to unpredictable and harsh gods. Ellen White adds that Paul avoided attacking their beliefs, instead sharing God as a loving Father. Some mocked, others were convicted, emphasizing that seeking God with all hearts leads to transformation.

Friday - Further Thoughts (Paul’s Awesome Finish) Paul quoted Athenian writers, sharing more about Jesus. People reacted differently, but Paul ensured they heard the message, aiming for understanding before acceptance or rejection. Ellen White’s reflections encourage contemplating heavenly prizes, understanding Satan’s enmity against God’s law, and choosing the right power, teaching wisdom and respect when sharing beliefs.