Paul could have easily used other words for proof; there were others available to him. The use of pistis, however, was meant to move his hearers not simply to an abstract, cognitive conclusion, but, given its close connection with the Greek word for faith, and given its connotation of a whole-souled change of mind and heart (remember that pistis is most often translated as faith), Paul was making it clear that his listeners were responsible to commit themselves to his message. He was not interested in a syllogistic conclusion; he was intent that the Athenians would come to faith in Christ.
...more
