In this final message of Paul’s sermon on Mars Hill (Acts 17:30–34), he presents the sobering side of the gospel: the coming judgment of God. After revealing the Creator’s power and sovereignty, Paul declares that this same God commands all people everywhere to repent because a fixed day of judgment is coming. That judgment will be executed by the risen Christ, the appointed Judge of all humanity. Paul explains that God’s patience in the past was mercy, not indifference, and that His justice will one day be displayed in full righteousness. The reactions mirror every generation—some ridiculed the message, others procrastinated, and a few believed and were saved, including Dionysius and Damaris. The lesson challenges believers to proclaim the whole gospel—not only God’s love and grace, but also His holiness and wrath—knowing that eternity hangs in the balance. God’s mercy delays judgment, but His justice guarantees it, and only those who turn to Christ in faith will escape eternal separation from Him.
The Other Side of the Gospel
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