Have you ever been taken to court for something? Can you imagine being taken to court for your faith? Can you imagine the pressure of a judge and jury staring down their noses at you in expectation of you explaining your faith. The Areopagus was the high court of appeals in Greece at that time, and this was no small court Paul found himself in the middle of.

As the aristocrats of Athens questioned Paul to explain his faith in more detail, Paul immediately acknowledged their religious practices and took notice of their objects of worship, particularly the altar with the inscription "to the unknown God." Paul took this opportunity to tell them his faith was in the same God. Paul knew his God on a personal level, and he wanted these renowned men to know Him as well. All was fine and dandy until Paul brought up the resurrection of Jesus.

I have taken notice that religious people have no problem talking about God. However, bring up the name of Jesus and His resurrection, and there is a stirring up of animosity. This is exactly what Paul did not shrink away from, nor should we. Do you know your God? Do you know His Son Jesus? Do you know Him personally enough to explain Him in detail to those who serve an "unknown God?" I want to be ready to not just defend my faith, but to describe in detail my Savior and His resurrection so that some might be saved.

Pray:

Adoration: God is holy, mighty, gracious, and merciful. Spend time declaring your love for Him and expressing your thoughts of praise and worship.

Confession: Ask God to search your heart and reveal any areas of unconfessed sin. Acknowledge these to the Lord and thank Him for His forgiveness.

Thanksgiving: Express your thankfulness to God for the blessings He has given you. When we consider that we deserve punishment because of our sinfulness, and instead God gives to us His love and mercy, our only response should be one of thankfulness.

Supplication: Petition God regarding your family and your ministry. Ask for help and guidance in sharing your Jesus with others and helping others grow in Him. Offer prayers concerning your activities for this day and any special concerns you may have. Intercede on behalf of local, national, and world missions. Pray the Great Commission would be fulfilled and for any special concerns you may have for missions.