Acts 17:16–34 | The Sovereign God of Athens

First Irving Sermons

Main Idea. Idol worshipers are called to take heed of the gospel of the true God and repent. What does Paul see? 1. The Problem of Rampant Idol Worship (vv. 16–21) How does Paul respond to this problem? 2. The Remedy is Preaching the Only God’s Gospel (vv. 22–31) 11 attributes of God’s nature: Attribute: God as Creator (v. 24) Application: Trust in what the Bible says (Gen 1:1; Jn 1:1; Col 1:15, 16). Attribute: God as Lord of All (v. 24) Application: Submit to his authority (Jas 4:7; Prov 3:5–6) Attribute: God’s Transcendence (v. 24) Application: Worship God (Ps 145:3; Ps 95:3, 6). Attribute: God as Sustainer (v. 25) Application: Be thankful to God in all circumstances (1 Thess 5:18). Attribute: God’s Sovereignty and Providence (v. 26) Application: Rest in knowing that God is over all (Col 1:16–17). Don’t be anxious about anything… make your request known to God (Phil 4:6–7). Attribute: God’s Immanence (v. 27) Application: Pursue God (Jas 4:8). Attribute: God as the Source of Life (v. 28) Application: Steward the life that God has given you (1 Pet 4:10). Attribute: God as Father (vv. 28-29) Application: Be assured of his loving kindness to his children (1 Jn 3:1). Attribute: God’s Holiness and Righteousness (v. 30) Application: Repent of sin (1 Jn 1:9). Attribute: God as Judge (v. 31) Application: Fear the Lord (Ps 9:7–8; Ps 50:6). Attribute: God’s Faithfulness (v. 31) Application: Remember his trustworthiness and works (Ps 77:1). 3 responses: 1. Grow in holy jealousy for the worship of God. 2. Bear in mind God’s sovereign authority over everything. 3. Be intentional with the gospel knowing God placed you where you are. (see v.27)