11. How can we see that Paul was carrying out one of the last commands that Jesus gave while He was still with His disciples? Luke 24:47. Then consider Acts:17:31.
NOTE: ‘Repent, repent, was the message rung out by John the Baptist in the wilderness. Christ’s message to the people was, “Except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.” Luke 13:5. And the apostles were commanded to preach everywhere that men should repent. The Lord desires His servants today to preach the old gospel doctrine, sorrow for sin, repentance, and confession. We want old-fashioned sermons, old-fashioned customs, old-fashioned fathers and mothers in Israel. The sinner must be laboured for, perseveringly, earnestly, wisely, until he shall see that he is a transgressor of God’s law, and shall exercise repentance toward God and faith toward the Lord Jesus Christ.’ Evangelism, page 179.
12. What was their reaction, especially to Paul’s preaching about the resurrection of Jesus? Acts 17:32.
NOTE: ‘Many who listened to the words of Paul were convinced of the truths presented, but they would not humble themselves to acknowledge God, and to accept the plan of salvation. No eloquence of words, no force of argument, can convert the sinner. The Spirit and power of God can alone apply the truth to the heart of the impenitent. Many who listened to the words of Paul were convinced of the truths presented, but they would not humble themselves to acknowledge God, and to accept the plan of salvation. No eloquence of words, no force of argument, can convert the sinner. The Spirit and power of God can alone apply the truth to the heart of the impenitent. Of the Athenians it may be said, “The preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness, but to them that are saved it is the power of God.” Sketches from the Life of Paul, page 96.
13. How can we see, however, that the Holy Spirit was at work on hearts as Paul preached of the living God? Acts 17:34.
NOTE: ‘His labours in Athens were not wholly in vain. Dionysius, one of the most prominent citizens, and some others, accepted the gospel message and united themselves fully with the believers.’ Acts of the Apostles, page 240.
LESSON INSIGHT: It is of great sadness to the Lord to see so many of those whom He made in His image turning away from Him, with scoffing and scepticism. It is very poignant to read of His striving with sinners. If we feel the pull of the Spirit to take us away from anything that may be a hindrance in our lives, may we soften our hearts and come to the Lord in repentance, while the Lord is still striving with us, while it is still day. As with the people in Noah’s day, or with Felix or for the Athenians, there may never be another opportunity.
WHAT WE KNOW ABOUT THE HOLY SPIRIT: The work of the Holy Spirit is to strive with those who are away from God or never knew Him, to touch the inner being, and convict sinners of their condition with God. This is a heart work that human instruments cannot do. We can speak the Word and our lives can reflect Christ to make His ways attractive to the wanderers, but we cannot bring conviction, repentance and surrender. Only God the Holy Spirit can bring them ‘Home’.