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Thursday, January 23, 2025

Preview of future ministry

Acts 20:22-25: Paul’s preview of his future service in Jerusalem and beyond include:

  • I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me
  • the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me
  • none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself
  • that I might finish my course with joy
  • [that I might finish] the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus
  • [the ministry] to testify the gospel of the grace of God
  • I know that ye all…shall see my face no more

Paul feels impelled to go to Jerusalem, despite whatever future awaits him there. While the specific events may be unknown, the witness of the Spirit through other believers indicates he will experience imprisonment (“bonds”) and persecution (“afflictions”).[1] His desire to preach the gospel, to finish his course, to fulfill his God-given ministry, is dearer than life itself. The prospects, even up to and including death, do not dissuade him from his course of action. For “finish my course,” see also II Timothy 4:7. This course of action means Paul and the Ephesians elders will not meet again in this life.


[1] That the witness occurs “in every city” suggests the witness of the Spirit through other Christian believers as Paul travels. This does not preclude a direct witness of the Spirit to Paul. Nevertheless, “in every city” connects the witness with travel and people. A detailed example is given when Paul comes to Cæsarea. See Acts 21:8-11. The Holy Ghost does not give the message to prevent Paul from going to Jerusalem, but to prepare him and his friends for what will happen.

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