The term Areopagite refers to a member of the Areopagus which was the supreme council and high court of ancient Athens with responsibility for law, morality and religion.
The Athenian intellectuals of Areopagus (the Areopagites) were very enthusiastic about the latest trend or the “new thing” and when Paul arrived they asked him to present this new religious doctrine (Acts 17).
He preached a sermon at the Council of the Areopagus using their altar “To the Unknown God” to declare the message of Christ and the resurrection. Paul used Greek philosophy, natural theology and local poets to establish that God is the Creator and not far from anyone. He went on to command that all people should repent and used Jesus’ resurrection as proof of the coming day of judgement.
Despite being mocked by many in his audience when he talked about the resurrection, some did convert including a council member named Dionysius the Areopagite.