Day 20: Ch.20. As we head for the final stretch in the Book of Acts, we find Paul’s sense of urgency growing. He is more concerned about completing God’s mission than he is for his own life.Pray for God to ignite a passion within us to go beyond our desire and to fulfill His will. Pray the church will awaken and feel the urgency in the Spirit for the lost.
JESUS today YOU will SAVE me.
Eat This Book
Read Proverbs Chapter 3
Acts 20
1 And after the uproar was ceased, Paul called unto him the disciples, and embraced them, and departed for to go into Macedonia.
2 And when he had gone over those parts, and had given them much exhortation, he came into Greece,
3 And there abode three months. And when the Jews laid wait for him, as he was about to sail into Syria, he purposed to return through Macedonia.
4 And there accompanied him into Asia Sopater of Berea; and of the Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus; and Gaius of Derbe, and Timotheus; and of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus.
5 These going before tarried for us at Troas.
6 And we sailed away from Philippi after the days of unleavened bread, and came unto them to Troas in five days; where we abode seven days.
7 And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight.
8 And there were many lights in the upper chamber, where they were gathered together.
9 And there sat in a window a certain young man named Eutychus, being fallen into a deep sleep: and as Paul was long preaching, he sunk down with sleep, and fell down from the third loft, and was taken up dead.
10 And Paul went down, and fell on him, and embracing him said, Trouble not yourselves; for his life is in him.
11 When he therefore was come up again, and had broken bread, and eaten, and talked a long while, even till break of day, so he departed.
12 And they brought the young man alive, and were not a little comforted.
13 And we went before to ship, and sailed unto Assos, there intending to take in Paul: for so had he appointed, minding himself to go afoot.
14 And when he met with us at Assos, we took him in, and came to Mitylene.
15 And we sailed thence, and came the next day over against Chios; and the next day we arrived at Samos, and tarried at Trogyllium; and the next day we came to Miletus.
16 For Paul had determined to sail by Ephesus, because he would not spend the time in Asia: for he hasted, if it were possible for him, to be at Jerusalem the day of Pentecost.
17 And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the church.
18 And when they were come to him, he said unto them, Ye know, from the first day that I came into Asia, after what manner I have been with you at all seasons,
19 Serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and temptations, which befell me by the lying in wait of the Jews:
20 And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have shewed you, and have taught you publicly, and from house to house,
21 Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.
22 And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there:
23 Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me.
24 But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.
25 And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more.
26 Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men.
27 For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God.
28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.
29 For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.
30 Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.
31 Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.
32 And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.
33 I have coveted no man’s silver, or gold, or apparel.
34 Yea, ye yourselves know, that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me.
35 I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.
36 And when he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all.
37 And they all wept sore, and fell on Paul’s neck, and kissed him,
38 Sorrowing most of all for the words which he spake, that they should see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship.
The POFW Daily Bible Reading 
22 And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there:
23 Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me.
24 But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.
25 And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more.
After journeying for the cause of preaching the gospel, there were many laying wait to capture Paul and possibly kill him. He had already knew that he would suffer torment and temptation because of who he was. There will always be those that discount the powerful conversion of the person they despised the most. Paul converted from a persecutor to a powerful preacher to those that would accept the power of the name of Jesus. He led many disciples and people to the same Jesus that he persecuted. But the Jews would not accept him and wanted him dead.
I find that many in the church today, even though they proclaim to be saved and sanctified, will pass judgment on folks that have led a life of sin but have come to conversion in the Holy Ghost and will try to torment them with reflections of their past full of turmoil but never really believing that they have been changed. We have to be a church full of love and humility. We have to be be like Paul and focus on saving as many as we can by preaching the Gospel and not worry about those that can not be humble and loving toward the new converts.
We again have the greatest opportunity to be like Paul in this end time, to bind up the broken hearted, to set the captive free, and to let God use is in the outpouring of the Holy Ghost. It’s not time to settle in but to keep pushing for the high calling of God and hit the mark.
Verses 22-24 MSG “But there is another urgency before me now. I feel compelled to go to Jerusalem. I’m completely in the dark about what will happen when I get there. I do know that it won’t be any picnic, for the Holy Spirit has let me know repeatedly and clearly that there are hard times and imprisonment ahead. But that matters little. What matters most to me is to finish what God started: the job the Master Jesus gave me of letting everyone I meet know all about this incredibly extravagant generosity of God.” Same verses AMP “And now, compelled by the Spirit and obligated by my convictions, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there, except that the Holy Spirit solemnly [and emphatically] affirms to me in city after city that imprisonment and suffering await me. But I do not consider my life as something of value or dear to me, so that I may [with joy] finish my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify faithfully of the good news of God’s [precious, undeserved] grace [which makes us free of the guilt of sin and grants us eternal life].” LIVE-GIVE JESUS² no matter what comes, no matter what we face…..remember, it is not about us; but, about Him!
29. For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.
30. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.
There are already enough outside forces and spirits trying to deceive us and tear us apart; let’s make sure we don’t self-destruct from within by tearing each other down or causing division in the body. If the world sees the church attacking itself, how can we draw them to it?
Mark 3:
24. And if a kingdom be divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand.
25. And if a house be divided against itself, that house cannot stand.
Acts 20:20-22
And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have shewed you, and have taught you publicly, and from house to house, Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ. And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there:
Miracles followed testimony.
Everytime we see testimony being shared in the Bible it followed with miracles. Now I’m not saying that it’s doctrine to share testimony in order to have a move of God but I will say that peoples faith will rise when share miraculous things. Especially if you’ve built trust with that person already, then whatever you testify about will build hope it will help their faith to rise. So share testimony today and see if Jesus follows it with something miraculous
Acts 20: 24-25 But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry which I have received of the Lord Jesus to testify the gospel of the grace of God.
25) And now, behold I know that all, among whomI have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall my face no more.
Paul mission for God to go and preach the gospel to people whatever it cost him .
And he when with joy in his heart to please God.
2 Tim 4: 7 I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have keep the faith.
Remember it nothing about us , it to please the Lord.
No matter what it will cost me.
Praise God for he is so good to us.
24 But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.
I love the passion and the absolute certainty in the scripture. “None of these things move me” Paul refuses to be influenced by anything outside of God it declares that he has delivered the truth to the people and they are responsible for what they do with it. We can have that like-minded fire and passion as well where everything that is around us is filtered by God and we are not moved or shaken in faith in our walk with God
31 therefore watch and remember that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn everyone night and day with tears.
——
Wow! Three years he stayed there with them until his
Appointed day.
👉🏼He ceased not….
🙏 for my loved ones. That I may use time wisely and be aware of the opportunities the Lord fine us.
Absolutely so true.
You may not realize it but every time you make the decision to be in the house of God you too are making a statement to family and friends . Determination to live for Jesus even if you must attend without your family . Your life is making an impression for the Gospel sake . Hold to the promises God has given you . Your life may be the only Bible someone is reading .
His strength is perfect just as Paul in Acts is showing us .
29 For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.
30 Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.
Perhaps this was the begining of denominations. We are all obligated to be grounded in the Word, be instant in season and out of season, to guard our minds from false doctrine.
Acts 20:29-31 MSG ““I know that as soon as I’m gone, vicious wolves are going to show up and rip into this flock, men from your very own ranks twisting words so as to seduce disciples into following them instead of Jesus. So stay awake and keep up your guard. Remember those three years I kept at it with you, never letting up, pouring my heart out with you, one after another.
Don’t be deceived by the devil in sheep‘s clothing.
1Peter 5:8 NKJV “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.”
28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.
Another charge in the Holy Ghost to lead the lost to Jesus Christ. There will always be struggles, as the next couple verses explain, but we must continue strong in the faith to serve Jesus with all joy!
. What matters most to me is to finish what God started: the job the Master Jesus gave me of letting everyone I meet know all about this incredibly extravagant generosity of God.”
Every person we meet is an opportunity to share what God has done in our life. We must truly reach and proclaim the gospel. Our testimony could be what helps someone else to know they too have hope.
At our SALT luncheon on Sunday I spoke about taking Risks. Risks are uncontrollable and challenging yet if Paul has not continued taking Risks there would be no chapters in the book of Acts of the many conversions from his preaching and the other disciples . Paul knew he would be facing challenges , temptations and persecution yet he continued Taking Risks. He knew though that God would be there with him and that was the only assurance he needed. How many times have we allowed fear to keep us from doing the will of God? Too many. Every time dear raises its ugly self up we must declare it cannot have a hold on us . Join together with someone in prayer and know that there is a work to be done and your testimony is an important key to someone you may brush shoulders with daily. Don’t allow the opportunity to pass you up . Paul took the risk .
Am I willing to take A Risk for the lost of this world ?
I pray so .
Joshua 1:9
9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid ; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go
PERSUADED
“But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.”
Acts 20:24 KJV
A man so persuaded about Jesus Christ that he’s willing to give his life for this Gospel.
Jesus let the men and woman in this apostolic church have the same mind set. To live and die for this freedom, for this truth, for salvation.
Let us be persuaded to death in Jesus name.
“But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.”
Acts 20:24 KJV
A final departure to your destination. Laboring with such an amazing group of people like POFW will and is such a blessing to all that come. We may all be different but our ministry, gifts, and talents are always used for the Kingdom of our LORD JESUS CHRIST. We are people with vision, purpose and obedience. As we continue to work in the spirit of UNITY our eyes will continue to see the hand of GOD ALMIGHTY moving in our midst as we see lives being transformed by the Holy Ghost.
Let us continue to persevere. I give the LORD JESUS all praise and glory🙌
“But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry. For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.”
2 Timothy 4:5-8 KJV
Senor jesucristo ensename a ser mas como Paul que trabajo toda su Vida para tu causa quitame todo lo que me hace siega a tu Amor por los demas
The Bible has all the answers…
The young man fell out the window and “taken up dead”. What is a preacher to do? Do what he has been taught to do. Elijah raised the widow’s son in 1 Kings 17. Elijah stretched himself upon the child three times and cried out to the Lord to heal the boy. Then we read in 1 Kings 17:22-23, “And the LORD listened to the voice of Elijah. And the life of the child came into him again, and he revived. And Elijah took the child and brought him down from the upper chamber into the house and delivered him to his mother. And Elijah said, “See, your son lives.”
We have unrestricted access to the Bible and for some we have lost our appreciation for the Word of God. We ought to remember that in many places around the world, hearing the Word of God taught and preached continues to be a rare privilege…a privilege for which many are willing to endure hardships to enjoy.
Some of us are falling asleep on God because we have been going through the motions of being religious our whole lives, but we have never been spiritually awakened. Some of us are falling asleep in our faith because we have been lulled into laziness through the lies of our culture and our own rationalizations. Some of us are falling asleep in church because…we stayed up too late last night!
iLove the Kingdom of Jesus2
Acts 20:30 Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.
Look at this…The First United Pentecostal Church of Acts had an issue. Paul said, “Also of your own selves” that folks would rise up and speak “perverse” things. That word “Perverse” in the Greek means to:
Distort, that is, (figuratively) misinterpret, or (morally) corrupt: – perverse (-rt), turn away.
The Word said, “also of your own selves”. This refers to the fact it happened to the new disciples of the church. With this being the case, we must understand the same is happening today in our churches. Folks who take the Word and pull something out that’s not there are twisting the Word. Most time these folks are attempting to gather followers on facebook instead of following God.
Acts 20:31,32 Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn everyone night and they with tears.
NIV So be on your guard! Remember that for three years I never stop warning each of you night and day with tears.
Leviticus 6:13 The fire shall ever be burning upon the altar; it shall never go out.
I Thessalonians 5:17 Pray without ceasing.
My family must be saved!! Keep praying for POFW families salvation.
God sees every tear🥲 Can’t wait to rejoice with them that surrender to God and get saved.
“”Keep watch over yourselves. Keep watch over all the believers. The Holy Spirit has made you leaders over them. Be shepherds of God’s church. He bought it with his own blood.”
Acts 20:28 NIRV
In today’s reading, it was as if I could hear it being said straight from Paul’s month. This verse is felt deep within me. What I message from Paul to the ministry. God has made us leaders over them. We are made to be shepherds!
SHEPHERD – 7462 – ra`ah – to pasture, tend, graze, feed
1) to tend, pasture
a) to shepherd
b) of ruler, teacher (fig)
c) of people as flock (fig)
d) shepherd, herdsman (subst)
2) to feed,
a) of cows, sheep etc (literal)
b) of idolater, Israel as flock (fig)
b) (Hiphil) shepherd, shepherdess
2) to associate with, be a friend of (meaning probable)
a) (Qal) to associate with
b) (Hithpael) to be companions
3) (Piel) to be a special friend
It’s jumps out with neon lights flashing BE A FRIEND OF, TO ASSOCIATE WITH, TO BE A SPECIAL FRIEND.
A spiritual friend listens without judging, gets under your load to share its weight, keeps your confidences, recalls how you have made it through other tough times and reminds you that God is in control. Such was the friendship of David and Jonathan. Serve Gods flock because you want to us serving from the heart.
“Be shepherds of God’s flock, the believers who are under your care. Serve as their leaders. Don’t serve them because you have to. Instead, do it because you want to. That’s what God wants you to do. Don’t do it because you want to get more and more money. Do it because you really want to serve. Don’t act as if you were a ruler over those who are under your care. Instead, be examples to the flock.”
1 Peter 5:2-3 NIRV
Acts Chapter 20
24 But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.
25 And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more.
It is bitter sweet to see those that you have Ministered to and with and say good by. Paul knowing that he was going to be in Jerusalem before Pentecost. What did he preach the Gospel of the grace of God and the Kingdom of God. Jesus also said
Mat 6:31Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?
Mat 6:32 (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.
Mat 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
There is no life in Jesus with out the Gospel or kingdom principles. Holiness and
Righteousness go hand in hand. For with out it we have kayos, Paul taught these this because Jesus taught him in the desert for three years then releasing him to join the apostles.
9As Paul spoke on and on, a young man named Eutychus, sitting on the windowsill, became very drowsy. Finally, he fell sound asleep and dropped three stories to his death below. 10Paul went down, bent over him, and took him into his arms. “Don’t worry,” he said, “he’s alive!”
‘Warning’ don’t fall asleep on God. If you let the enemy in, little by little you’ll get farther away from God. Don’t get drowsy, stay awake to keep the enemy away. By praising, worshipping and prayer will keep you awake spiritually, and give you strength.
28 Take care and be on guard for yourselves and for the whole flock over which the Holy Spirit has appointed you as overseers, to shepherd (tend, feed, guide) the church of God which He bought with His own blood.
Paul was admonishing the other disciples with whom he had been working with in various cities to take care of the sheep that God had placed in the fold. Protect them, encourage them, look out for deception that would come to them, because they belong to God, which pay the ultimate sacrifice for them.
We are responsible to do the same. Jesus draws people to our congregation all the time by His Spirit, and we see many of them baptized and /or filled with His Spirit. We are responsible to care for them, guard them, cover them in prayer, watch for their soul, lest they fall into deception.
They belong to Him, He paid for them with His blood, and we must take on their care.
POFW does a great job of this, but this scripture is prodding us to go the extra mile, kick it up a notch, try hard, go longer, do more to ensure that His sheep become part of His flock.
LIVE – GIVE JESUS2
FINISH WITH JOY
24 But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.
Minsitry often appears to be something glamorous and glorious to the follower. It is somewhat of both in the Kingdom, but not as some view it. The only glamour and glory that I have been privileged is in the presence of JESUS, when HIS Glory is revealed.
Paul shares his HARDship, then shares his HEARTship. The Mission is of GOD and the co-mmission is to complete the Mission with JOY.
How often have we began a mission for JESUS only to become frustrated, agitated and discouraged by the progress, participation or outcome? The Holy Ghost had warned Paul of the upcoming painful experiences, but Paul remained committed and faithful to HIS call and attitude.
This mindset or lifestyle is the fruit of someone that will LIVE JESUS.
Romans 14:17 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.
Romans 15:13 Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.
In world of conflict, division and contention as the Body of Christ, The Kingdom of GOD we must FINISH WITH JOY to offer the world an hope of salvation. Defend and protect your JOY.
Nehemiah 8:10 Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the LORD is your strength.
The JOY of the LORD is your strength. JOY for the Mission in when we LIVE JESUS.
iRepent
iPraise
iPray
iWork
iLive
iGive
iReap
iGo
iBlessYouInTheNameOfTheLordJESUS
Acts of the Apostles 20:35
And I have been a constant example of how you can help those in need by working hard. You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”
Amazing
by Point of Grace
Consider your needs of the past
When somebody helped but you never asked Now think of the joy you received
When you reached out to someone else in need
‘Cause some days we laugh
Some days we cry
Some days we hold it deep inside
Though each day is a gift from on high
But what I find amazing
The love we give, the love we gain
Amazing
There’s so much more that’s in Jesus name
Amazing
Sometimes it’s hard to see
That it’s more blessed to give than receive
Learning from different mistakes
Learning to give instead of just take
But when we all start to blend
We’ll be like colors surrounding the sun as it sets
‘Cause some days we laugh
Some days we cry
Some days we hold it deep inside
Though each day is a gift from on high
But what I find amazing
The love we give, the love we gain
Amazing
There’s so much more that’s in Jesus name
Amazing
Sometimes it’s hard to see
That it’s more blessed to give than receive
‘Cause some days we laugh
Some days we cry
Some days we hold it deep inside
Though each day is a gift from on high
But what I find amazing
The love we give, the love we gain
Amazing
There’s so much more that’s in Jesus name
Amazing
Sometimes it’s hard to see
That it’s more blessed to give than receive
Amazing, amazing
Amazing
Sometimes it’s hard to see
That it’s more blessed to give than receive
Consider your needs of the past
When somebody helped but you never asked
24 “But my life is worth nothing to me unless I use it for finishing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus—the work of telling others the Good News about the wonderful grace of God.”
When we LIVE Jesus, we find Joy, Peace, and Comfort in being able to be used and do work for the Kingdom. The opportunities that we are blessed to do for the Kingdom stop being a burden and become a life source.
24 But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.
There is no need to worry and no room for fear for if God calls you to do it OBEY and walk it in faith!!!! That way may it always be a JOY to work for God’s ministry knowing without a doubt that you will do it and finish it with JOY IN CHRIST JESUS!! So GO, tell everyone about JESUS from the small blessings to the huge miracles may ALL BE DONE FOR HIS GLORY ALONE!!
And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified. I have coveted no man’s silver, or gold, or apparel. Yea, ye yourselves know, that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me. I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
Acts 20:32-35 KJV
A Program can’t do it; entertainment can’t do it; only God and the word of His grace can build you up and give you an inheritance in heaven.
34 Yea, ye yourselves know, that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me.
It was not the hope of financial gain that motivated him in the work of the Lord. He was essentially a poor man, as far as material things were concerned, but he was rich toward God. Holing out his hands before them, he could remind them that those hands had labored to provide for the necessities of life, both for himself and for those who were with him, and that applies for everybody.
A.L.M.A.S.
32 And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.
“Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.”
Acts 20:28 KJV
Paul said to guard ourselves and the church. I believe he mentioned ourselves first for a reason. The saying goes ‘Hurt people hurt people’ and we can apply this concept to the wisdom we get from Paul’s words. Spiritually malnutritioned saints malnutrition saints. When we walk around with no joy, that’s exactly what we spread to other saints – misery. When we walk around with no peace, what do we feed others? – Chaos. When we walk around holding a grudge against our brother or sister, what do we spread? – Division.
I pray we start each day by guarding ourselves so we would be a help and not a hinderance to those Go’s has made us overseers of
35 I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.
36 And when he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all.
37 And they all wept sore, and fell on Paul’s neck, and kissed him,
38 Sorrowing most of all for the words which he spake, that they should see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship.
“But my life is worth nothing to me unless I use it for finishing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus—the work of telling others the Good News about the wonderful grace of God.”
Acts of the Apostles 20:24 NLT
We were created to worship Him, to do His work, to spread His gospel! My life has no meaning without Him. I have no greater purpose than to serve Him!
Acts 20:16 (NKJV)
“For Paul had decided to sail past Ephesus, so that he would not have to spend time in Asia, for he was hurrying to be at Jerusalem, if possible, on the Day of Pentecost.”
Be like Paul.
Make plans now and “Decide To Sail Past” things that might hinder you from being at POFW Church on Pentecost Sunday, May 23, 2021.
Acts 20
32 And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.
33 I have coveted no man’s silver, or gold, or apparel.
34 Yea, ye yourselves know, that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me.
35 I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.
Paul pursued the lost aggressively. His whole heart was to teach the words of Jesus to everyone. He wasn’t doing it for materialistic reasons. He wanted everyone saved, no matter the cost. How many of us are that willing to do this. We must try to help get the lost saved.
Thank you Jesus for this day.
22 And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there:
23 Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me.
24 But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.
You gotta have Jesus in you to be able to live Jesus in this kind of way. I could think of our Lord as well. All that time he knew. He new what his fate would be. He knew that he was born only to die. Love was born to die for you and me. It take being full of God to know especially being warned of the Holy Ghost, cause its true and will come to pass, that what awaits you is a fate like this. Yet there is a purpose and a will to fulfill. And that is to do the will of God. We must remember that He is our exceeding great reward.
““And now I entrust you to God and the message of his grace that is able to build you up and give you an inheritance with all those he has set apart for himself.”
Acts of the Apostles 20:32 NLT
Every man and woman of God that work hard for the Kingdom of God. God has entrusted us to rise with faith to preach the message of God. We are God chosen generation and are apart of the revival to come. Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not to our own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.
36 And when he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all.
Praying with those around you brings strength. Having friends that are willing to pray with is the best thing to have. They’re not afraid to go to battle with you. They understand there is strength in numbers and that our God is mighty.
“But my life is worth nothing to me unless I use it for finishing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus—the work of telling others the Good News about the wonderful grace of God.”
Acts of the Apostles 20:24 NLT
–
A life without God is sad, filled with fear, anxiety, doubt, and no peace. We need to realize that God brought us here with a purpose, we all mean everything to the Lord we are his children. You might think because your not following God you can do whatever because no rules, yes there are no rules but there is never complete fun or peace or joy. I pray tonight that we show others that God is the best way to go, he will fill us with joy, strength and an everlasting life with him and victory. Let us realize that God is the one who brought us up from where we were from how he saved us and showed us light. Make God most important in life.
25 And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more.
26 Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men.
God lives in each and everyone one of us. Once we seek his kingdom and heart first we are anointed. I remember pastor preaching us a sermon called “I am Anointed.” In this sermon he said that once He lives in us we are anointed. God has placed a burden upon each and everyone of us, for his kingdom. I know I may be young but I want to do as much as I can for His kingdom to seek Him first!!! I don’t care who’s watching or what chances I have to take, but I want God to be my solid rock foundation to my life. I pray tonight that you just let go and God have His way!!!
30 Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.
31 Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.
32 And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.
The last day that Paul was Preaching, he was with all his heart made them the recommendations about the gospel, and the people, which will try to corrupt the gospel. He was more worry about his people that about his death. He already knew what will be waiting for him in every city. Paul was determined to finish the line with joy of doing what the Lord Sent him to do it. With tears he gave the last teachings knowing that feroces and evil people will come to separate the flock. We have to pray one to another because we are living in those days now!
“But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.”
“I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
Acts 20:24,35 KJV
Sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ is the best thing you can do. Winning those souls to Christ is what it is all about. Giving and pouring your heart unto the kingdom brings joy unto him. Your labor is not in vein. We are disciples in his kingdom and we must never take it lightly to witness and win souls to Christ. We are all called to be a disciple and witness to the lost. Let us not complain or become to tired to where we allow those souls to just fade away. We must continue to endure this race because god wants to see everyone saved.
“And I have been a constant example of how you can help those in need by working hard. You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ ””
Acts of the Apostles 20:35 NLT
We need to serve in the kingdom of God. Give more than receive in the kingdom of God. God will bless you with a good and humbled heart. Give joyfully to the kingdom of God
24 But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.
It is easy to get caught up in the things of this world. We must remember that this life is but a vapor, but eternity is forever. We don’t need to be focused on this life but the next…
The economy of your soul
20 And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have shewed you, and have taught you publicly, and from house to house,
A Man of God, someone who hears God on your behalf, knows when something is profitable fir you or not. Some things, even though the look good, come with a Spiritual consequence that is not worth the good that is in it. This is where trusting that God knows what he’s doing is better that the fear of what you missed out on. The big picture is hard to see with a selfish perspective. As we grow in the lord we are as thankful for the shut doors as we are the open ones. He has kept nothing profitable from me but he has guarded me from the unprofitable. This is something you cannot replace. Just as great financial advisors won’t even bring you a bad deal to consider, you will never know it existed, your pastor should hold that kind of authority that he can pass on things on your behalf. I’m not interested in the unprofitable. I’m glad I have someone that will shut doors for me instead of just opening them.
9 And there sat in a window a certain young man named Eutychus, being fallen into a deep sleep: and as Paul was long preaching, he sunk down with sleep, and fell down from the third loft, and was taken up dead.
10 And Paul went down, and fell on him, and embracing him said, Trouble not yourselves; for his life is in him.
I can’t even imagine the concern Paul had fir the young man as he fell out the window. The thought that his desire to sleep was greater than his desire to be alert and responsive. Paul falls upon him and declares he’s a live. The young man struggled to gather himself and get up. He was hurt but he was still there.
When a person fails to stay alert and attentive to the taught word of God they are often in the same boat. They often raise up hurt but not hostage.
7 And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight.
Wow!!! Today we are very “busy” would we sit til midnight listening to the speech or preaching, I bet if we really felt a burden ………
“But my life is worth nothing to me unless I use it for finishing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus—the work of telling others the Good News about the wonderful grace of God.”
Acts of the Apostles 20:24 NLT
Lord let us finish the work you have assigned us to do for You! To tell those around us about Your goodness and grace. The mighty wonders and miracles You have done and continue to do! God, don’t let us leave this world without finishing Your work! We are nothing without You God Almighty!
28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.
29 For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.
30 Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.
31 Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.
32 And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.
We need to fight hard against the enemy to fight past the temptations
Thank you Jesus!!!
Live by Godly principles. Work hard. Give more than you get. Reach people. Hallelujah🌺
35 I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.
36 And when he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all.
“. . . It is more blessed to give than to receive.” How do you live the majority your life? Giving or always expecting things in return/receiving? If the latter then maybe we should consider kneeling down. There is something about getting on our knees that is humbling to us and moves the Lord.
God bless Pofw and shower us with his love!!
35 I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.
36 And when he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all.
37 And they all wept sore, and fell on Paul’s neck, and kissed him,
38 Sorrowing most of all for the words which he spake, that they should see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship.
When someone has taught you, prayed for you, loved you, helped you….it is very hard to hear those words that you will never see their face again. Paul was truly a father to them.
“But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.”
Acts 20:24 KJV
We can’t dwell on the bad that has happened or our own circumstances so that we can’t share the word. We have to focus on Jesus and the joy he brings so that we can share the word with joy and encourage others to seek Jesus.
“But he said, “Why all this weeping? You are breaking my heart! I am ready not only to be jailed at Jerusalem but even to die for the sake of the Lord Jesus.” When it was clear that we couldn’t persuade him, we gave up and said, “The Lord’s will be done.””
Acts of the Apostles 21:13-14 NLT
We shouldn’t stop the man of God from doing his will. God will comes first. Peter tried to save Jesus, but did the opposite. Listen to the man of God in your life.