In which John and David consider the insults or comments made about Paul by the Athenians. Ever wondered how a man branded a "babbler" by ancient intellectuals could spark a spiritual revolution? We consider the opposition that Paul encountered, dissecting the term "babbler" and its implications for his message. The often-misinterpreted Greek word "spermalogos" serves as a window into the challenges of maintaining the essence of faith amidst a sea of competing ideologies, and our exploration reveals just how crucial unaltered messages are to the fabric of belief.

We uncover the subtleties embedded in the language used to convey divinity and strangeness. Our discussion touches on Paul’s strategic adaptability, his tailored engagements in synagogues, marketplaces, and on Mars Hill, and the rich insights from early church fathers like John Chrysostom and Basil the Great. They invite a pause in the hustle to truly encounter God. This episode an invitation to reflect on the divine in an ever-distracting world, challenging us to find God's rightful place in our own lives.

Episode 145 of the Two Texts Podcast | Disruptive Presence 90

If you want to get in touch about something in the podcast you can reach out on podcast@twotexts.com or by liking and following the Two Texts podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you enjoy the podcast, we’d love it if you left a review or comment where you’re listening from – and if you really enjoyed it, why not share it with a friend?

Music by Woodford Music (c) 2021

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In which John and David explore the Apostle Paul's reaction to his visit to Athens where he boldly confronted idolatry and introduced the early Christian gospel. Athens, with its pantheon of gods and penchant for debate, provided unusual ground for Paul's missionary zeal. We consider his emotional turmoil amid the city's idols, contrasting it with the Athenian culture of "endless" discussion, and spotlight the active, practice-oriented nature of Judeo-Christian teaching.

Contrasting Athens with the biblical narrative of creation as a divine temple in which humanity was meant to serve as the image of God, we explore the irony of idolatry, where humanity's aspiration to be godlike usurps the very role designed for them. We ponder Paul's theological convictions, honed by his Jewish heritage and life-changing encounter with Christ, which fueled his reaction to the idol worship he found in Greece. We contrast the pursuit of intellectual acceptance with the radical Christian message of resurrection, a concept met with skepticism by those unguided by the Spirit. As we juxtapose the narratives of Athens and Corinth, join us for this compelling exploration of the meeting of faith and reason in the heart of ancient philosophy.

Episode 144 of the Two Texts Podcast | Disruptive Presence 89

If you want to get in touch about something in the podcast you can reach out on podcast@twotexts.com or by liking and following the Two Texts podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you enjoy the podcast, we’d love it if you left a review or comment where you’re listening from – and if you really enjoyed it, why not share it with a friend?

Music by Woodford Music (c) 2021

________
Help us keep Two Texts free for everyone by becoming a supporter of the show

John and David want to ensure that Two Texts always remains free content for everyone. We don't want to create a paywall or have premium content that would exclude others.

However, Two Texts costs us around £60 per month (US$75; CAD$100) to make. If you'd like to support the show with even just a small monthly donation it would help ensure we can continue to produce the content that you love.

Thank you so much.

Support the show

John and David trace the steps of Paul and Silas, venturing through Thessalonica's tension-filled streets into the welcoming community of Berea. Our latest episode unravels the stark contrasts these early Christian evangelists encountered, from vehement opposition to heartfelt acceptance. Act 17 reveals the strategic moves and the unwavering resolve behind the spread of a message that would echo through millennia.

Their resilience of these missionaries leads to powerful encounters with diverse voices and surprising reactions to the faith. We dissect the varied receptions to the Gospel, celebrating the Bereans' intellectual curiosity and musing on the transformation spurred by an open heart and mind.

We reflect on the profound sacrifices of Paul and the emotional landscape he traversed to share his convictions with the world. Through examining these pillars of Christianity, we gain a deeper understanding of the tenacity and passion that fueled the early Church's growth, illuminating our own paths of faith and commitment.

Episode 143 of the Two Texts Podcast | Disruptive Presence 88

If you want to get in touch about something in the podcast you can reach out on podcast@twotexts.com or by liking and following the Two Texts podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you enjoy the podcast, we’d love it if you left a review or comment where you’re listening from – and if you really enjoyed it, why not share it with a friend?

Music by Woodford Music (c) 2021

________
Help us keep Two Texts free for everyone by becoming a supporter of the show

John and David want to ensure that Two Texts always remains free content for everyone. We don't want to create a paywall or have premium content that would exclude others.

However, Two Texts costs us around £60 per month (US$75; CAD$100) to make. If you'd like to support the show with even just a small monthly donation it would help ensure we can continue to produce the content that you love.

Thank you so much.

Support the show