THE UNKNOWN GOD Acts 17:23 I. Introduction. A. Paul on Mars' Hill-an observation: Acts 17:23. B. However religious-they had no true concept of Jehovah. 1. Hebrew word: YHWH. 2. Most often translated "Lord" in O.T. C. In a sense, Jehovah still remains unknown: Lesser or greater degree. D. Just what is God like--is he, as some say, a God set only on vengeance--or--a God that exhibits only kindness(love)? E. Paul's description to men of Athens: Acts 17:24-29. II. Body. What is the unknown God like? A, Jehovah is not physical/material: v. 29. 1. Different from their concept & some religious groups of today. 2. The characteristics of men are often used to refer to God. 3. Jehovah does have emotions and feelings. a. Note: Genesis 1:2. b. Rested(ceased): Genesis 2:2. c. Anger: Judges 2:14. d. Love: John 3:16. e. Note: Romans 9:14-18. 4. An eternal being: Exodus 3:14("TO BE"). B. Mankind is the offspring: V. 28. 1. In the beginning: Genesis 1:26-27. a. Image: Shade; Likeness: similitude. b. Every good quality of man comes from God. c. Those characteristics distinguishing him from animals. d. The purpose of animals: v. 26. e. Note: Genesis 9:2-3. 2. Paul's observation: Romans 9:20-21. 3. Men want to make God in man's image. 4. David realized: Psalm 139:14. C. Jehovah is not far away: v. 27. 1. Reason to seek. 2. Reason to pray. 3, Man distances himself from God. 4. Near to the Israelites. 5. Presence: knowledge; concern. 6. Not unrighteous: Hebrews 6:10. 7. Hebrews 6:17-18. D. God determined man's limits: v. 26. 1. And their lengths: "he made...one." 2. None greater-right to do so: Hebrews 6:13. 3. So long as men act in keeping with God's law--he is blessed. 4. One exceeds limits in spiritual(and physical)--consequences to be paid. E. Jehovah grants life and breath to all beings: v. 25. 1. As the creator and sustainer. 2. Idolatry is growing in this country. 3. Breathe God's air, eat God's plants and animals, live on God's planet, etc.--- 4. Natural laws are to human benefit. 5. How better expressed: Psalm 23? 6. How sad that some refuse Him, some abandon Him, and some do not care! F. God does not dwell in manmade temples: v. 24. 1. Not flesh and blood: Luke 24:39--John 4:24. 2. Note: Matthew 16:17. 3. But there is a throne: Revelation 20:11. 4. He is: I TImothy 6:14-16(A DIVINE RULER). 5. Not just awesome power--divine power. 6. Belongs to Christ(Godhead): Matthew 25:31. III. Conclusion. A. Paul's conclusion: Acts 17:30-31. B. Men may not know God: God knows them!