Know the Audience
So he reasoned in the synagogue with the Jews and with those who worshiped God, as well as in the marketplace every day with those who happened to be there.
Acts 17:17 (CSB)
In Acts 17, Apostle Paul visited Athens, often focusing on his speech at the Aeropagus and his time in the marketplace. However, verse 17 shows that Paul shared the Gospel with both the synagogue and the marketplace audiences. While the core message stayed consistent, his delivery varied depending on the listeners. Similarly, today, we need to understand our audience to communicate the Gospel effectively. We should adapt our sharing methods to ensure clear communication.
Understanding our audience's background is essential. Paul’s training in Judaism was beneficial when he addressed those at the synagogue, as they were familiar with the Scriptures, promises, and prophecies from the Lord. Recognizing their background helped him tailor his delivery for greater impact. Similarly, in marketplace settings, Paul adapted his approach based on the audience's background, demonstrating the importance of knowing the listeners to effectively communicate the Gospel.
Understanding our audience's communication needs is essential. Paul tailored his message: using religious language with the synagogue crowd and marketplace terms in the marketplace. He recognized what people needed to hear about the Gospel and adapted his delivery accordingly. He did not address Jews and Gentiles in the same way. Similarly, today, we modify how we share the Gospel; we speak differently to a child than to an adult. The core message stays consistent, but our communication approach changes to suit the audience’s needs.
Understanding our audience's influences is crucial. Paul recognized that Jews were under the sway of their religious leaders, while pagans were influenced by philosophers and cultural figures. When addressing these groups, he leveraged these influences, highlighting the elements of truth within them and guiding them toward the ultimate truth. Paul understood that people are inherently seeking, and he tapped into this desire to lead them to Jesus.
We should make our evangelistic methods flexible enough to connect with the culture through the Gospel. By meeting our audience where they are and communicating in a suitable manner, we increase our capacity to influence them with the Gospel.
QUESTIONS
How does knowing your audience impact the way you share the Gospel?
What are some differences in sharing the Gospel in a Christian context, a pagan context, and a religious context?
