Our Daily Dose
Day 183 of 365 · Week 27 · Esther’s Boldness
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Paul’s Farewell to the Ephesian Elders
Acts 20:17-38
Scripture · Acts 20:17-38
17From Miletus, Paul sent to Ephesus for the elders of the church. 18When they came to him, he said, “You know how I lived the whole time I was with you, from the first day I arrived in the province of Asia. 19I served the Lord with great humility and with tears, especially in the trials that came upon me through the plots of the Jews. 20I did not shrink back from declaring anything that was helpful to you as I taught you publicly and from house to house, 21testifying to Jews and Greeks alike about repentance to God and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. 22And now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there. 23I only know that in town after town the Holy Spirit warns me that chains and afflictions await me. 24But I consider my life of no value to me, if only I may finish my course and complete the ministry I have received from the Lord Jesus—the ministry of testifying to the good news of God’s grace. 25Now I know that none of you among whom I have preached the kingdom will see my face again. 26Therefore I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all men. 27For I did not shrink back from declaring to you the whole will of God. 28Keep watch over yourselves and the entire flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which He purchased with His own blood. 29I know that after my departure, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. 30Even from your own number, men will rise up and distort the truth to draw away disciples after them. 31Therefore be alert and remember that for three years I never stopped warning each of you night and day with tears. 32And now I commit you to God and to the word of His grace, which can build you up and give you an inheritance among all who are sanctified. 33I have not coveted anyone’s silver or gold or clothing. 34You yourselves know that these hands of mine have ministered to my own needs and those of my companions. 35In everything, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words of the Lord Jesus Himself: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” 36When Paul had said this, he knelt down with all of them and prayed. 37They all wept openly as they embraced Paul and kissed him. 38They were especially grieved by his statement that they would never see his face again. Then they accompanied him to the ship.
Berean Standard Bible (BSB), public domain.
As Paul’s third missionary journey comes to a close, he meets with the elders of the church in Ephesus for a poignant farewell. In this emotional address, Paul reflects on his ministry, warns of future challenges, and charges the leaders to be vigilant in shepherding the flock.
- “‘And now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there. I only know that in every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me. However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.’”
Exegesis and Study
- Paul’s Commitment to the Gospel: Paul’s farewell address reveals his deep commitment to the mission of Christ, even in the face of impending suffering. His willingness to endure hardships and his single-minded focus on finishing the race and completing the task of spreading the Gospel are testaments to his dedication and love for Christ.
- A Charge to the Leaders: Paul’s charge to the Ephesian elders emphasizes the importance of vigilance and faithful leadership. He warns them of false teachers and urges them to shepherd the flock with care, reminding them that they are accountable to God for the well-being of the church. This charge underscores the gravity of spiritual leadership and the need for integrity, courage, and wisdom in guiding others.
Prayer Guide
- Pray for Faithfulness in Your Calling: Reflect on Paul’s example of faithfulness to his calling, even in the face of suffering. Ask God to help you remain steadfast in your own calling, with a heart that is willing to sacrifice for the sake of the Gospel.
- Pray for Spiritual Leaders: Lift up the leaders in your church and community, praying for their strength, wisdom, and integrity as they shepherd the flock. Ask God to protect them from discouragement and to empower them to lead with humility and grace. Conclusion: Paul’s Missionary Journeys in Acts 13-20 Paul’s missionary journeys, as recorded in Acts 13-20, offer a rich tapestry of lessons in obedience, boldness, and perseverance in the face of challenges. Paul’s unwavering commitment to spreading the Gospel, despite opposition and suffering, is a powerful example for all believers who seek to live out the Great Commission. These journeys also highlight the importance of strategic evangelism, cultural engagement, discipleship, and spiritual
leadership. As we reflect on Paul’s experiences, we are encouraged to seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit in our own lives, to be bold in sharing our faith, and to invest in the spiritual growth of others. May Paul’s example inspire us to live with the same passion for Christ, trusting that God is with us as we carry out the work He has given us, and knowing that our labor in the Lord is not in vain.
This devotional is one day from Our Daily Dose, a 365-day journey through Scripture by Armstrong & Zanele Ogwuche.
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Scripture is shown in public-domain translations, so you can share it freely. The study text is from Our Daily Dose by Armstrong & Zanele Ogwuche.
A daily devotional from KingdomOS. Share freely; every card links back here.
A daily devotional from KingdomOS. Share freely; every card links back here.