Dionysius and Damaris

Among the most startling conversions that Paul achieved in Athens were Dionysius and Damaris. Although Paul had been invited to the Areopagus to explain the “intriguing doctrine” that he was presenting, some had hoped that he would be found guilty of teaching beliefs that were contrary to the authority of Rome. Some were hoping that like Socrates, Paul would be sentenced to death. Instead of condemnation, some were bored, others sneered, but most importantly, some were so moved by Paul’s words that they became followers of Jesus. 

Dionysius may not have been the most surprising convert, but he may have been the best known, in part, because of his position on the council. In addition to Dionysius, ‘Damaris and  a number of others’ were also converted. Interestingly, in the book Cultures In Conflict, Vander Laan spends very little time exploring the lives of Damaris and the others. However, Vander Laan does speculate that Damaris is one of the high-priced prostitutes, called hetairai, who had long-term relationships with the educated Greeks. He further noted that hetairai provided companionship, intellectual stimulation, and sexual pleasure, and were known to frequent gatherings of the intellectual elite.

What Vander Laan appears to overlook or under-appreciate is the pattern of exploitation in which women are victimized by men. Paul’s message of the liberating love and grace of Jesus is eschewed by those who gain profit or enjoy pleasure at the expense of women. 

Vander Laan does invite a somewhat sobering analysis of the ways in which the good news is presented. He notes that often messages about God are accompanied by shouting, condemnation and criticism.  Instead, he suggests that we need to find ways of effectively communicating God’s story to our judgmental, combative and confrontational society. Perhaps, Vander Laan’s most piercing question simply asks ‘Which of your words and actions may be driving a wedge between God and those who don’t know him?’    

Rather than offering harsh words that spew hatred, we extend a compelling invitation to pursue a life of peace, purpose and joy.  We are looking forward to learning, laughing, serving and sharing with you in worship and on Sunday morning classes. Bring a friend, bring your Bible and bring your sincere desire to be a disciple.   

In Christ,
Jon McCoy