Do you remember Pauls visit to the Areopagus, what we call Mars Hill? The inhabitants of that hotbed of intellectualism remind me of Hollywood, todays entertainment elite.

Not that theres anything wrong with being intellectual. Jesus challenged often with deep wisdom that requires daily study, reflection and application to our lives. Great scholars continue to find insights in Jesus words. In fact, He made the playing field level by speaking truths that could be understood by followers of any intellectual giftedness or educational background when enlightened by the Holy Spirit.

In Acts 17, we find Paul visiting the intellectual elite of Athens. He had been in the synagogue reasoning with Jews and God-fearing Greeks and also in the marketplace where he encountered a group of philosophers. They heard him talking about Jesus teachings and resurrection, and they wanted to know more. These philosophers spent their time learning about and discussing the latest ideas, so they were remarkably open-minded.

Naturally, Paul seized the opportunity to tell them more of the gospel. He attended a meeting of their council at Areopagus. He didnt insult his listeners, but he was direct. Paul knew that, in the past, such great minds had produced some admirable thinking about taking personal responsibility in a civilized societythe generation Paul was dealing with were heirs to the philosophies of Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Zeno and Epicurus. But, more recently, their philosophy had degenerated into a system of pride.

Still, they were considered the custodians of teachings on morals and religion. They were recognized as the cultural gatekeepers, people who determined who could speak at public gatherings in Athens, who could shape the attitude of citizens. All things considered, Paul figured their council was a pretty good place for a sermon. But, remember, Paul didnt think of himself as a great orator. Yet he saw a need to influence the influencers of Athens with the gospel of Jesus. And he saw there was no one else to do it, so he took on the task.

Oscar-winning Chicago PHOTO BY Miramax/courtesy Everett C ollection

Okay, scene change: twenty-first century. Imagine yourself talking to the cultural gatekeepers of todaypeople who just happen to be trained and equipped with all the talent and technology required to produce movies as artistic as, lets say, The Matrix or Chicago. In The Matrix people fly through the air with incredible martial-arts moves or leap from building to helicopter. In our hearts, we know its computer graphics, but we cant take our eyes from what we chose to accept as the action on the screen. Its like Richard Gere saysor rather sings!in Chicago: everyone wants a little razzle dazzle.

Is Hollywood a daunting mission field? You bet! And so are the other cultural gatekeepers of 2003: the print and broadcast media, our national and local politicians, the education establishment, top leaders in business and industry, just to name a few. These people are savvy, and theyre used to the razzle dazzle.

But we can reach themwith Gods helpand we must. Its the challenge for our generation of Christs followers to be on mission to these influencers.

It would be easier to curse the darkness than to shine a light. We could just keep score on how low Hollywood sinks. Or we could try to reach the entertainment industry with the knowledge that, with changed hearts, they could use their incredible influence to tell others about Christ.

We also could adopt the attitude that Hollywood is too coarse and cynical to reach. We could avoid it like Jonah avoided Nineveh. But isnt that saying God isnt great enough to reach the toughest mission field?

Did Paul falter? No. Was he successful? Yes. Read Acts 17:32-34: When they heard about the resurrection of the dead, some of them sneered, but others said, We want to hear you again on this subject. At that, Paul left the Council. A few men became followers of Paul and believed. Among them was Dionysius, a member of the Areopagus, also a woman named Damaris, and a number of others.

Imagine what would happen in Hollywood if only one man and one womanperhaps studio heads or directorsbecame followers of Christ! Fortunately, God has placed some Christians in Hollywood who are serving Him faithfully and making a difference. Lets pray that their tribe will increase.

Dr. Bob Reccord is president of the North American Mission Board, SBC. His latest book is Beneath the Surface: Steering Clear of Dangers that Could Leave You Shipwrecked (Broadman & Holman 2002). He is host of the Strength for Living Baptist Hour which airs on more than 400 radio stations.