The concept of "The Unknown God" is primarily derived from the New Testament, specifically in the Book of Acts. This term is used by the Apostle Paul during his missionary journey in Athens, as recorded in Acts 17:16-34. The context of this encounter provides significant insight into the early Christian approach to evangelism and the understanding of God's revelation to humanity.

Biblical Context

In Acts 17:22-23 , Paul addresses the people of Athens at the Areopagus, saying, "Men of Athens, I see that in every way you are very religious. For as I walked around and examined your objects of worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: TO AN UNKNOWN GOD. Therefore what you worship as something unknown, I now proclaim to you." This passage highlights the Athenians' religious nature and their acknowledgment of a deity beyond their understanding.

Cultural and Historical Background

Athens was a city renowned for its philosophical schools and diverse religious practices. The presence of an altar dedicated to an "Unknown God" reflects the Athenians' desire to cover all bases in their worship, ensuring that no deity was inadvertently neglected. This altar symbolizes the human recognition of a divine presence that transcends human comprehension and the limitations of pagan worship.

Theological Significance

Paul's reference to the "Unknown God" serves as a bridge for introducing the Athenians to the God of the Bible. In Acts 17:24-25 , Paul continues, "The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples made by human hands. Nor is He served by human hands, as if He needed anything, because He Himself gives all men life and breath and everything else." Here, Paul emphasizes the sovereignty and self-sufficiency of the Creator God, contrasting Him with the man-made idols of Athens.

Paul further explains in Acts 17:26-28 that God "determined their appointed times and the boundaries of their lands. God intended that they would seek Him and perhaps reach out for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us. 'For in Him we live and move and have our being.'" This passage underscores the immanence of God and His desire for a relationship with humanity, inviting all people to seek and know Him.

Christological Focus

Paul's discourse culminates in the revelation of Jesus Christ as the means by which the "Unknown God" has made Himself known. In Acts 17:30-31 , Paul declares, "Although God overlooked the ignorance of earlier times, He now commands all people everywhere to repent. For He has set a day when He will judge the world with justice by the Man He has appointed. He has given proof of this to everyone by raising Him from the dead." The resurrection of Jesus is presented as the definitive proof of God's revelation and the assurance of future judgment.

Implications for Evangelism

The account of the "Unknown God" in Acts 17 serves as a model for Christian evangelism, demonstrating the importance of understanding and engaging with the cultural context of the audience. Paul's approach shows respect for the Athenians' religious sentiments while boldly proclaiming the truth of the Gospel. By identifying common ground and addressing the spiritual longing evident in their worship, Paul effectively communicates the message of salvation through Jesus Christ.

Conclusion

The concept of the "Unknown God" in Acts 17 provides a profound insight into the nature of God as both transcendent and immanent. It highlights the universal human quest for the divine and the fulfillment of that quest in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Through this encounter, the early church exemplifies the transformative power of the Gospel to reach across cultural and religious boundaries, inviting all people to know the one true God.