Język Polski
English
Published
:
2026-05-19
The New Evangelization on the Example of St. Paul’s Speech at the Areopagus in the Context of the Region’s Culture and Environment (Acts 17:16–34)
Konrad Jasiewicz
Abstract
This article analyzes St. Paul’s speech at the Areopagus (Acts 17:16-34) as a biblical model for the new evangelization, relevant to the contemporary challenges facing the Church. The author presents the historical and religious context of Athens, as well as the philosophical milieu of the Epicureans and Stoics to whom Paul addressed his speech. The exegetical analysis emphasizes that the Apostle begins the dialogue with elements familiar to his listeners – religion, culture, and philosophy – in order to gradually lead them to the revelation of God the Creator and the truth of Christ’s resurrection. Paul’s speech serves as an example of inculturation and respect for the audience, without compromising the proclamation of the full truth of the Gospel. Although the Athenians’ reactions were mostly skeptical, this event is not a failure but a lesson in missionary fidelity. The author points out that the Areopagus is the archetype of today’s “new Areopagi”, that is, the spaces of culture, science, and the media, where the Church is called today to dialogue and courageous evangelization.Keywords:
evangelization, new evangelization, St. Paul the Apostle, biblical theology, inculturationDetails
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Jasiewicz, K. (2026). The New Evangelization on the Example of St. Paul’s Speech at the Areopagus in the Context of the Region’s Culture and Environment (Acts 17:16–34). Społeczeństwo, 36(1), 81–102. https://doi.org/10.58324/s.499