Scripture Response: Romans 1:1-2:16

Paul, as an experienced speaker, used different methods of presenting the Gospel. Analysis of Acts 13:16-41 and Acts 26:1-31 shows how Paul utilized technique, familiarity with the audience, and persuasion while preaching. In Acts 13:16-14, Paul presented his viewpoint confidently when he addressed a gathering of Jews in Antioch. For example, Paul treated Jesus’ bodily resurrection as fact when he said, “The fact that God raised him from the dead, never to decay, is stated in these words: ‘I will give you the holy and sure blessings promised to David.’ ” (Acts 13:34) Furthermore, this verse, and others, shows how Paul consistently supported his arguments with Scripture. On the other hand, Paul humbly presented Christianity to Agrippa in Acts 26:1-31. Instead of constantly quoting Scripture, Paul made conclusions based on his background and obvious general statements. To justify of his conversion Paul stated, “So then, King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the vision from heaven.” (Acts 26: 19) Underscoring God’s sovereignty, Paul queried, “Why should any of you consider it incredible that God raises the dead?” (Acts 26:8) All in all, Paul used confidence in Acts 13 and humility in Acts 26 as techniques to spread the Gospel.

Interestingly, Paul adjusted his presentation technique based on his knowledge of his audience. In Acts 13 Paul addressed his audience as fellow Jews. Therefore, he presumed they knew the Scriptures. Using this assumption, he devoted his time to examine prophecies in the Psalms, Isaiah, and Habakkuk to justify his conclusion that “. . . through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you.” (Acts 13:38) However, in Acts 26 Paul recounted his conversion experience and discussed the key points of the Christian faith with King Agrippa. Appealing solely to Scripture did not carry any weight because Agrippa, a Gentile ruler, drew his authority from secular sources. With this knowledge, Paul presumed on Agrippa’s knowledge of Hebrew matters, saying, “The king is familiar with these things, and I can speak freely to him.” (Acts 26:26) Then Paul explained how his viewpoint did not contradict the Scriptures, saying, “I am saying nothing beyond what the prophets and Moses said would happen—that the Christ would suffer and, as the first to rise from the dead, would proclaim light to his own people and to the Gentiles.” (Acts 26:22-23) Overall, Paul used different techniques to persuade his audience concerning the validity of the Gospel based on what he knew of his audience.

Depending upon his audience, Paul employed different types of persuasion. Paul used force of words and Old Testament texts Acts 13persuade his Judaic listeners that he knew his subject. He ended his speech by quoting Habakkuk 1:5, stating, “Look, you scoffers, wonder and perish, for I am going to do something in your days that you would never believe, even if someone told you.” Used the harshness of this passage, Paul endeavored to convince the Jews to consider his claims and believe in Jesus. However, Paul conversed with Agrippa to explain his point in Acts 26. At the end of his speech Paul pleaded, “Short time or long—I pray God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am . . . .” (Acts 26:29) This plea contrasts markedly with Paul’s stern warning in Acts 13. In summary, when Paul witnessed, he employed technique, knowledge of his audience, and persuasion to present the Gospel to others.



Works Cited
The Holy Bible, New International Bible, Grand Rapids: Zondervan Corporation, 1991.
(Unless otherwise noted, all verses quoted are from this version.)