Here is a question I might ask my Sabbath School class to get the discussion started:

How do you think Paul would approach some of the various types of people you know?

Paul adapted his approach to various cultures. However, for Paul there is but "one-truth". Paul's missionary efforts adapted the message to people in different circumstances. Even though the message Paul preached met people in various circumstances the "truth" never altered. There is but one truth and that is Jesus died for our sins and rose again.

I can't imagine anyone trying to alter that truth.

The question asked in the little poll was: "Because Paul used a different approach to different people, he probably varied his doctrines slightly."

What a question? Of course there is one-truth. Paul did not vary his doctrine, just the approach and the way the message was delivered to people because of their circumstances and culture.

So far it is tied that Paul might have altered 'doctrines'.

What I am really not understanding from the lesson this week is how Paul modified his approach to each different culture. The lesson is not really very upfront with this other than stating that it was so. Can anyone help me tease out the crux of the matter.

How did Paul mix things up to talk to people of each different culture?

My personal view:

1. With the pagans or philosophers, he quoted from their literature and referred to the stories of their gods to illustrate his points.

2. With the Jews, he mentioned their ancient history and the prophecies made in the Old Testament.