protherapeia

1. Preparing one's audience for what one is about to say through conciliating words. If what is to come will be shocking, the figure is called prodiorthosis. (Silva Rhetoricae)

2. 504. CONCILIATION.
1. Among the tactics of oratory, none are more important or more widely employed than a conciliatory style and demeanor. For persuasion can best be effected over those who are disposed to regard the speaker with kindly feelings, and who are inclined to give to his arguments the mos friendly consideration. (De Mille)

3. The securing of Indulgence for what is about to be said... The Figure is used when, by way of precaution, we secure indulgence, or conciliate others, with reference to something we are about to say. (Bullinger, 937)

1. Paul the apostle warms up his audience by beginning his speech on Mars hill with protherapeia:

Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are very religious...
—Acts 17:22 (Silva Rhetoricae)

3. Acts 17:22. -"Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are very religious." This is the meaning of the word deisidaimonesteros "careful in the discharge of religious services." For religion in itself is nothing. It depends entirely on what the religion is, whether true or false. (Bullinger, 937)