Unstoppable: The Book of Acts: Advent in Athens - Pastor Ben Hodges

Advent isn’t just a “Christmas countdown.” It’s a heart check.Acts 17:16-21 1. Paul’s Spirit Is Provoked: Advent Starts with a Feeling of Conflict (Acts 17:16–21)Everywhere he looks, people are worshiping created things instead of the Creator.So what does Paul do?- He reasons in the synagogue with religious people (v.17).- He goes into the marketplace with secular people (v.17).- He engages the prevailing cultural ideas of his day —Epicureans (pleasure seekers) and Stoics (self-disciplined moralists) (v.18).Acts 17:22-25 2. The Unknown God Is the Generous God (Acts 17:22–25)Paul says: “Let me introduce you. He’s not unknown. He’s made Himself known.”- God doesn’t need anything from you.- God is not a taker. He’s a giver.Acts 17:26-29 3. Advent in Athens confronts idols, our fears, and our heart … where our treasure is (Acts 17:26–29)- God is not far. God has drawn near.- God has placed you where you are in this time on purpose… so that you would seek Him.- Acts 17 and Advent together ask: “This December, are you worshiping the God who gives everything… or the gods of self, comfort, control, and consumerism?”Acts 17:30-31 4. The Command of Advent: Repent & Receive the Ultimate Gift (Acts 17:30–31)- First coming: He came in humility—incarnation, manger, cross.- Now: He commands everyone to repent—turn from idols to the living God.- Future coming: He has fixed a day of judgment—Jesus will return as Judge andKing.- Advent is not just sentimental; it’s urgent.Acts 17:32-34 5. How Do You Respond?- The mockers: God calls you to repent. Patient now but He IS coming soon.- The curious: Keep listening, keep asking… the Lord has already drawn near.- The believers: Respond in worship with your whole heart.- He IS coming again.The Goal of Advent: From Unknown God to “Abba Father.”