Lectionary Year A
May 5, 2002
Acts 17:22-31

Step II: Disposition
A. Genre

(JFC) This passage seems to be like a principal speech at a political fund-raiser. It begins relatively politically correct by complimenting the auditors, it might seem, at least, to them. From that point, elucidated with equal skillfulness in political correctness, Paul begins to allude to the ignorance of those to whom he speaks. Later he declares that God overlooks their ignorance. In between those allusions, Paul proclaims much of the true nature of the God who is Creator and findable. The syntax seems rather comprehendible for the auditors of this address. Some of the sentences get a little long for them to be as listener-friendly as more skillful orators might want to use, but, after all, we are dealing with Paul the Apostle, known for long-windedness, at least in his writings.

B. Personal Interaction

(JFC) Wonder if Paul were as universalistic as he seems to be when he claims that God gives life, breath and all things to everyone? Then, too, does he really think God developed the regions of the earth and that all are created from one? Furthermore, is Paul as inclusivistic as he seems to be in saying, "For we too are His offspring" and/or, "therefore, we are the offspring of God." Finally, is the final statement, re: confirming that God has appointed one raised from the dead through whom all are judged, right?

C. Organization

(JFC) The 25th verse of this passage seems to be universalistic. God's supposedly having marked out the world's regions and the one's being the source of all are both in verse 26. His seemingly inclusivism appears in verses 27, 28 and 29. Then, the final statement makes up verse 31.

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