by jimwalton » Wed Jan 11, 2017 11:37 pm
Paul was an expert at using the cultural context in sharing the gospel. Acts 17.16-34 (Paul in Athens) is a brilliant example. Epicurean and Stoic philosophers confronted him. Paul responds not only with the gospel of the cross and resurrection, but also quotes Epemenides and Aratus. He uses the poets of their culture to create a bridge to the resurrection. In Lystra (Acts 14.8-20), Paul uses his knowledge of the Zeus myth to confront paganism with the gospel. In like manner we should be familiar with Islamic beliefs so we know (1) how to best capitalize on bridge points (their respect for Jesus, etc.) and (2) where the weaknesses of Islam are so we can emphasize grace, love, and other Christian theologies absent from Islam. If we wish to help people, we must first understand them.