Atos 20

F.B. Meyer · Citado em PreceptAustin

Atos 20

Meyer writes that "The secret of a blessed Christian experience is to live in the power of this truth, that the Holy Spirit is literally the Lord, as He is the Giver, of Life (cp Jn 6:63). Sometimes He will direct us towards individuals, as when He said unto Philip, " Go near, and join thyself to this chariot " (Acts 8:29+); at other times, we shall be bound in the Spirit to go up unto Jerusalem, knowing that bonds and afflictions await us, but not able to draw back (Acts 20:22-23). The note and mark of His Rule are always the crucifixion of the self-life to the glorification of the Christ-life, and the combination of circumstances, which lock with His inspirations, as the wards of a lock with its key. Whether to act or rest, whether to speak or be still, whether to go in or go out, all will be made clear by the witness and leading of the Spirit in the depths of our heart." (The Creed of Creeds) Notice Meyer is not saying "Let go and let God," but "Let God and let's go!" Afflictions (2347)(thlipsis from thlibo = to crush, press together, squash, hem in, compress, squeeze in turn derived from thláo = to break) originally expressed sheer, physical pressure on a man. Thlipsis is a strong term which does not refer to minor inconveniences, but to real hardships. Medically thlipsis was used of the pulse (pressure). Thlipsis was used to describe the pressing together as of grapes and thus conveys the picture of being squeezed or placed under pressure or crushed beneath a weight! When, according to the ancient law of England, those who willfully refused to plead guilty, had heavy weights placed on their breasts, and were pressed and crushed to death, this was literally thlipsis. The iron cage was stenochoria. Thlipsis thus refers not to mild discomfort but to great difficulties, something Paul experienced in every city! As Joseph Alleine said "Times of affliction are usually gaining times to God's people." When we as children of God stray, as a loving Father, He disciplines us. In times like these affliction is God's shepherd dog to drive us back to the fold. And while we may not like the afflictions at the moment, in time we come to be thankful for His afflictions which are often His best blessings sent in disguise! Indeed, someone has well said that our great Teacher writes many a bright lesson on the "blackboard of affliction." The Puritan writer Thomas Brooks said it well...Stars shine brightest in the darkest night. Torches are the better for beating. Grapes come not to the proof till they come to the press. Spices smell sweetest when pounded. Young trees root the faster for shaking. Vines are the better for bleeding. Gold looks the brighter for scouring; and juniper smells sweeter in the fire. Spurgeon echoes Brooks thoughts...I am afraid that all the grace that I have got out of my comfortable and easy times and happy hours might almost lie on a penny. But the good that I have received from my sorrows, and pains, and griefs, is altogether incalculable. What do I not owe to the crucible and the furnace, the bellows that have blown up the coals, and the hand which has thrust me into the heat?...Our troubles have always brought us blessings, and they always will. They are the dark chariots of bright grace....The tears of affliction are often needed to keep the eye of faith bright. In Jesus' last words to His disciples He too spoke of the great "affliction" (the Cross) He would soon face and encouraged His men who would soon also experience afflictions for the sake of His Name... John 16:33 “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation (thlipsis), but take courage (present imperative - command to make this attitude their lifestyle - How possible? They would soon have Another Helper, implying that Jesus had been their "Helper", and the Holy Spirit would strengthen them in their inner manner with power - Acts 1:8+, Eph 3:16+) ; I have overcome the world.” Comment: Beloved, let us hear and take to heart, Paul's example of facing afflictions and Jesus' warning and encouragement regarding coming affliction. The Christian life is not a picnic, but a war. We have three inveterate moral enemies - the world, the flesh and the devil. Paul in his last recorded words gave Timothy a prophetic promise which was also a warning of coming afflictions declaring "indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted." (2 Ti 3:12+) Acts 20:24 "But I do not consider my life of any account as dear to myself, so that I may finish my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify solemnly of the Gospel of the grace of God: all' oudenos logou poioumai (1SPMI) ten psuchen timian emauto os teleiosai (AAN) ton dromon mou kai ten diakonian en elabon (1SAAI) para tou kuriou Iesou, diamarturasthai (AMN) to euaggelion tes charitos tou theou.: NET Acts 20:24 But I do not consider my life worth anything to myself, so that I may finish my task and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the good news of God's grace. GNT Acts 20:24 ἀλλ᾽ οὐδενὸς λόγου ποιοῦμαι τὴν ψυχὴν τιμίαν ἐμαυτῷ ὡς τελειῶσαι τὸν δρόμον μου καὶ τὴν διακονίαν ἣν ἔλαβον παρὰ τοῦ κυρίου Ἰησοῦ, διαμαρτύρασθαι τὸ εὐαγγέλιον τῆς χάριτος τοῦ θεοῦ. NLT Acts 20:24 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. KJV Acts 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. ESV Acts 20:24 But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God. ASV Acts 20:24 But I hold not my life of any account as dear unto myself, so that I may accomplish my course, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God. CSB Acts 20:24 But I count my life of no value to myself, so that I may finish my course and the ministry I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of God's grace. NIV Acts 20:24 However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me--the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace. NKJ Acts 20:24 "But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God. NRS Acts 20:24 But I do not count my life of any value to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the good news of God's grace. YLT Acts 20:24 but I make account of none of these, neither do I count my life precious to myself, so that I finish my course with joy, and the ministration that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify fully the good news of the grace of God. My Amplified Paraphrase “But I do not consider my life (I do not account my life as having any value or priority) as dear to myself (precious, of supreme worth), if only I may finish (bring to completion, fulfill to the end) my course (my race, the path God has appointed) and the ministry (service, stewardship entrusted to me) which I received (took as a gift, received from Another, not created by myself) from the Lord Jesus, to testify (to solemnly witness, declare emphatically) to the gospel (the good news of God’s saving grace) of the grace of God (His undeserved favor, mercy, and power freely given). For Paul, life itself was expendable; finishing the race and fulfilling the assignment Christ had entrusted to him was everything.” I do not consider my life Ac 21:13 Ro 8:35-39 1Co 15:58 2Co 4:1,8,9,16-18, 6:4-10, 7:4, 12:10 Eph 3:13 1Th 2:2, 3:3 2Ti 1:12, 3:11 4:17 Heb 10:34, 12:1-3 Account: 2Co 5:8 Php 1:20-23, 2:17, Col 1:24 1Jn 3:16 Rev 12:11 might: Jn 17:4 1Co 9:24-27 Php 3:13-15 2Ti 4:6-8 and the ministry: Ac 1:17, 9:15, 22:21 26:17,18 1Co 9:17,18 2Co 4:1 Ga 1:1 Titus 1:3 testify solemnly: Ac 20:21 Jn 15:27 Heb 2:3,4 Gospel of the grace of God: Ac 14:3 Luke 2:10,11 Ro 3:24-26, 4:4, 5:20,21, 11:6 Eph 1:6, 2:4-10 Titus 2:11, 3:4-7 1Pe 5:12 Acts 20 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries THE SECRET OF PAUL'S STRONG FINISH 2Ti 4:7+ But (term of contrast) should alway prompt at least one question - What is being contrasted? (Why?, etc). In the present context, Paul is contrasting the reality of the certainty of "bonds and afflictions" with the reality of his attitude of accepting whatever the good hand of the Lord brings. This is clearly the heart of one who knows that he is not his own but has been bought with the price of the precious blood of Christ and that the purpose of his life is now to glorify God (1Cor 6:19+, 1Cor 6:20+, Titus 2:14+, 1Pe 1:18, 19+, Mt 5:16+) And as we read about Paul, we need to remember his charge to the believers in Corinth (and by application to us today) to Be (present imperative = command to make this one's lifestyle, something possible only as we yield to and are enabled by the Holy Spirit) imitators of me, just as I am of Christ." (1Cor 11:1+) Will imitating Paul and Jesus involve suffering for the Name above all names? It is a guarantee, but enabled by the same Spirit Who empowered Paul, we must not shrink from the high and holy call upon each of our lives! (Cp 2Ti 3:12+, Phil 1:29+) You are not really ready to live for Christ until you are willing to die for Christ. Related Resources: The Holy Spirit-Walking Like Jesus Walked! 1 Corinthians 11:1 Commentary See discussion of the Need for the Holy Spirit to obey NT commands TO LIVE = CHRIST TO DIE = GAIN Php 1:21+ I do not consider my life (psuche) of any account (logos) as dear (timios) to myself - "I do not consider my life worth anything to myself" (NET), "But I count my life of no value to myself" (HCSB), "But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself" (ESV), "But I do not place any value on my own life." (NJB). For a similar sentiment by Paul see 2Cor 4:7-12+, 2Cor 6:4-10+, 2Cor 12:9, 10+, Php 1:20, 21+, Php 2:17+, Php 3:8+, Col 1:24+. Paul knew he was not his own, but that his life belonged to Jesus in Whose hands he was a "chosen instrument." (Acts 9:15+). Oh, for all of God's possessions to possess such a passionate persuasion! Paul presents a proper perspective for our short life on earth! My life (psuchē) is literally "my soul!" Paul uses psuchē not merely to refer to his physical existence, but to refer to his whole self, his life, his desires, his ambitions, his comforts, and his personal preservation. In essence, Paul was saying “My own life, with all its plans, comforts, dreams, and security, is not what I’m living for.” He understood and lived what he had written to the saints at Corinth that his "body (was) a temple of the Holy Spirit Who (was in him), Whom (he had) from God, and that (he was) not (his) own," having "been bought with a price" so that now his chief purpose in life was to "glorify God in (his) body." (1Co 6:19-20+) To Paul, life was not something to grasp but something to surrender for the sake of His Lord. Paul used psuchē in much the same way as did Jesus’ in Luke 9:24+ “Whoever wishes to save his life (psuchē) will lose it, but whoever loses his life (psuchē) for My sake will save it.” Paul was willing to lose his life (psuchē) for Jesus' sake. Paul consciously, continually lived a crucified life (Gal 2:20+), leaving all believers of all ages a pattern to imitate (1Co 11:1+). How are you doing? Of any account (logos) is the familiar word "logos" as essentially an "accounting term" by which Paul was saying he placed no worth on his own life, compared to the mission Christ had given him. To put it another way, Paul affirmed that his own life was not something to be preserved, protected, or held tightly when compared with the surpassing value of Christ’s calling (cf Php 3:7-9+). As dear (timios) to myself - The word Paul choose for "dear" is timios which means precious, valuable, highly honored, worthy of protection, and was often used of treasured stones, costly possessions, or something treated with great care. Paul, by putting it in a negative statement ("I do not'), was saying his life was not his treasured possession. His life was not his "cherished possession" and he refused to make it an idol for his own comfort and gain, instead willingly and freely surrendering it to will of Christ. He embodied his conviction “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21+), placing Christ’s calling above every instinct toward self-preservation. Nothing, absolutely nothing deters Paul from his holy purpose! Albert

Atos 20

Meyer comments "Remember," he said to the elders of the Ephesian Church, "that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears" (Acts 20:31). Each word is significant! Not content with appealing to them by day, he must needs invade his nights; when worn by emotion, labour, and teaching, his tired body might surely claim repose. Nor was this a spasmodic devotion to be followed by spells of indolence and lethargy. He did not cease this ministry for three long years; but pursued it without relaxation, without interruption, without pause. Nor was this work prosecuted with the persistence of a zealot or the eagerness of a partisan; but with the tears of a soul lover. (Paul A Servant of Jesus Christ) Admonish (warned, cautioned, gently reproved, exhorted)(3560)(noutheteo from noús = mind + títhemi = place; see Nouthesia) literally means to place in the mind and so to warn or give notice to beforehand especially of danger or evil. The idea is to lay it on the mind or heart of the person, with the stress being on influencing not only the intellect, but also the will, emotions and disposition. The idea is to counsel about avoidance or cessation of an improper course of conduct. Noutheteo describes "putting sense into someone’s head", alerting them of the serious consequences of their actions and does not mean being judgmental or critical in a superior manner but instead imparting a caring kind of warning against danger. Noutheteo is in the present tense which indicates Paul was continually admonishing, warning, cautioning, etc English dictionaries state that to admonish is to indicate duties or obligations to; to express warning or disapproval to especially in a gentle, earnest, or solicitous manner; to give friendly earnest advice or encouragement to; to reprove firmly but not harshly; to advise to do or against doing something; warn; caution. Writing to the disciples of Jesus at Rome Paul exhorted them... Now I urge you, brethren, keep your eye (skopeo in the present tense = continually keep your attention) on those who cause dissensions (dichostasia = divisions) and hindrances (skandalon = that which entices others to stumble) contrary to the teaching which you learned, and turn away from them. For such men are slaves, not of our Lord Christ but of their own appetites; and by their smooth and flattering speech they deceive (exapatao in the present tense = they continually thoroughly beguile and lead astray their victims) the hearts of the unsuspecting. (Ro 16:17-18+)

Atos 20

Meyer says embraced and kissed. The same word is used of the tender caressing of the Lord’s feet by the woman in the Pharisee’s house (Luke 7:38), of the father’s embrace of the returned prodigal (Luke 15:20), and of the farewell of the Ephesian elders to Paul (Acts 20:37). Kataphileo - 6x in 6v - Matthew 26:49 Immediately Judas went to Jesus and said, "Hail, Rabbi!" and kissed Him. Mark 14:45 After coming, Judas immediately went to Him, saying, "Rabbi!" and kissed Him. Luke 7:38 and standing behind Him at His feet, weeping, she began to wet His feet with her tears, and kept wiping them with the hair of her head, and kissing His feet and anointing them with the perfume. Luke 7:45 "You gave Me no kiss; but she, since the time I came in, has not ceased to kiss My feet. Luke 15:20 "So he (the prodigal son) got up and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion for him, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. Acts 20:37 And they began to weep aloud and embraced Paul, and repeatedly kissed him, Kataphileo - 14x in the non-apocryphal Septuagint (Lxx) - Gen 31:28, 55; 45:15; Ex 4:27; Ruth 1:9, Ru 1:14+; 1Sa 20:41; 2Sa 14:33; 15:5; 19:39; 2Sa 20:9; 1Kgs 2:19; 19:20; Ps 85:10; The psalmist writes...Ps 85:10see Spurgeon's lengthy note Lovingkindness and truth have met together; Righteousness and peace have kissed each other. The use of Kataphileo in Ruth especially pictures the tender affection expressed in this verb...Ruth 1:9+ (Naomi to Ruth and Orpah - encouraging them to return to Moab - a heart wrenching moment) “May the LORD grant that you may find rest, each in the house of her husband.” Then she kissed (kataphileo) them, and they lifted up their voices and wept. Acts 20:38 grieving especially over the word which he had spoken, that they would not see his face again. And they were accompanying him to the ship: odunomenoi (PPPMPN) malista epi to logo o eirekei (3SPLUPERFECTAI) oti ouketi mellousin (3PPAI) to prosopon autou theorein. (PAN) proepempon (3PIAI) de auton eis to ploion. : NET Acts 20:38 especially saddened by what he had said, that they were not going to see him again. Then they accompanied him to the ship. GNT Acts 20:38 ὀδυνώμενοι μάλιστα ἐπὶ τῷ λόγῳ ᾧ εἰρήκει, ὅτι οὐκέτι μέλλουσιν τὸ πρόσωπον αὐτοῦ θεωρεῖν. προέπεμπον δὲ αὐτὸν εἰς τὸ πλοῖον. NLT Acts 20:38 They were sad most of all because he had said that they would never see him again. Then they escorted him down to the ship. KJV Acts 20:38 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. ESV Acts 20:38 being sorrowful most of all because of the word he had spoken, that they would not see his face again. And they accompanied him to the ship. ASV Acts 20:38 sorrowing most of all for the word which he had spoken, that they should behold his face no more. And they brought him on his way unto the ship. CSB Acts 20:38 grieving most of all over his statement that they would never see his face again. Then they escorted him to the ship. NIV Acts 20:38 What grieved them most was his statement that they would never see his face again. Then they accompanied him to the ship. NKJ Acts 20:38 sorrowing most of all for the words which he spoke, that they would see his face no more. And they accompanied him to the ship. NRS Acts 20:38 grieving especially because of what he had said, that they would not see him again. Then they brought him to the ship. YLT Acts 20:38 sorrowing most of all for the word that he had said -- that they are about no more to see his face; and they were accompanying him to the ship. That they would not see: Ac 20:25 And they were accompanying him: Ac 15:3 21:5,16 1Co 16:11 Acts 20 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries BELIEVERS' GOOD BYES ARE ONLY TEMPORARY It is only natural that they would grieve after Paul had spent almost 3 years among them and they had undoubtedly become very close personal friends. This is a good picture for all of us and also a challenge. When I was growing up my mother would frequently have the pastor and his family over for church. We got to know his family "like family." But as churches have grown in size (and busyness) it seem the gap between shepherd and sheep has widened and this is a sad dynamic. We need to return to the days of the first church so that might share one another's lives in such a way that if one departs (to another post or eternal life), we are grieved for a moment, and yet joyful for we know that the good byes of believers are only temporary. I like to tell the undertaker we only want to rent the plot of land for a few years! You should see their face! Grieving (present tense = continual grieving)(3600)(odunao from odune = sorrow, torment, grief, pain) means actively to cause intense pain but is used only passively in the NT to describe experiencing (suffering) intense physical pain (Lk 16:24 = Hades) or to experience mental and/or spiritual pain manifest by being grieved, anxious, very worried, deeply distressed. The NAS translates odunao - agony(1), am in agony(1), anxiously(1), grieving(1)and the KJV as sorrow 2, torment 2. Odunao - only 4x in Scripture Luke 2:48 When they saw Him, they were astonished; and His mother said to Him, "Son, why have You treated us this way? Behold, Your father and I have been anxiously looking for You." Luke 16:24 "And he (Lazarus) cried out and said, 'Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus so that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool off my tongue, for I am in agony in this flame.' Luke 16:25 "But Abraham said, 'Child, remember that during your life you received your good things, and likewise Lazarus bad things; but now he is being comforted here, and you are in agony. Acts 20:38 grieving especially over the word which he had spoken, that they would not see his face again. And they were accompanying him to the ship. H C Trumbull - It is the measure of hope which gives joy or sorrow to a parting. To part with a loved one in the morning, in the confident expectation of meeting again at the day's close, hardly causes a twinge of sorrow to the most sensitive heart. A parting which looks forward to a reunion at the close of a summer's vacation, or of a European tour, or on the return of an anniversary gathering, has more of brightness than of shadow in its firmament. But when the parting is with a soldier son or brother, who is starting out for active service at the front; or with a missionary worker who leaves his country with no thought of a return to it; or, when for any reason the hope of another meeting in this life is faint or is lacking—then its sadness is intensified. So it is when the parting is at the grave's border. Even the brightest-hearted Christian has a right to have sorrow in parting with a loved friend, with no hope of seeing him again on earth. It is not that the friend is a loser by passing out from earth's prison house; but it is that he who remains here shall see that friend's face no more. But even in such a parting, believers in Christ can have hope of a meeting beyond the grave; and this hope it is which should encourage the believer to sorrow not as those who have no hope. (Biblical Illustrator). Word (3056)(logos from légō = to speak with words; English = logic, logical) means something said and describes a communication whereby the mind finds expression in words. See his face again - "to see his face" (an idiom for seeing someone in person)." (NET Bible Note) See (2334)(theoreo from theaomai = to look at closely or attentively or contemplatively - even with a sense of wonder; cp theoros = a spectator) (Gives us English = theater, theorize) usually refers to physical sight but can also refer to perception and understanding. It means to gaze, to look with interest and purpose, to carefully examine with emphasis on or attention to details. To behold intensely or attentively. Our English word scrutinize conveys this sense, for it means to examine closely and minutely. To be a spectator and thus to understand or perceive. To contemplate (Heb 13:7). Theoreo in some contexts can include the idea of to behold with amazement. For example, in Mark 5:15 theoreo is not translated merely "see" but "observe" for as

Atos 20:17-27

Meyer writes... The secret of a blessed Christian experience is to live in the power of this truth, that the Holy Spirit is literally the Lord, as He is the Giver, of Life (cp Jn 6:63). Sometimes He will direct us towards individuals, as when He said unto Philip, " Go near, and join thyself to this chariot " (Acts 8:29); at other times, we shall be bound in the Spirit to go up unto Jerusalem, knowing that bonds and afflictions await us, but not able to draw back (Acts 20:22-23). The note and mark of His Rule are always the crucifixion of the self-life to the glorification of the Christ-life, and the combination of circumstances, which lock with His inspirations, as the wards of a lock with its key. Whether to act or rest, whether to speak or be still, whether to go in or go out, all will be made clear by the witness and leading of the Spirit in the depths of our heart. (The Creed of Creeds) Afflictions (2347)(thlipsis from thlibo = to crush, press together, squash, hem in, compress, squeeze in turn derived from thláo = to break) originally expressed sheer, physical pressure on a man. Thlipsis is a strong term which does not refer to minor inconveniences, but to real hardships. Medically thlipsis was used of the pulse (pressure). Thlipsis was used to describe the pressing together as of grapes and thus conveys the picture of being squeezed or placed under pressure or crushed beneath a weight! When, according to the ancient law of England, those who willfully refused to plead guilty, had heavy weights placed on their breasts, and were pressed and crushed to death, this was literally thlipsis. The iron cage was stenochoria. Thlipsis thus refers not to mild discomfort but to great difficulties, something Paul experienced in every city! As Joseph Alleine said "Times of affliction are usually gaining times to God's people." When we as children of God stray, as a loving Father, He disciplines us. In times like these affliction is God's shepherd dog to drive us back to the fold. And while we may not like the afflictions at the moment, in time we come to be thankful for His afflictions which are often His best blessings sent in disguise! Indeed, someone has well said that our great Teacher writes many a bright lesson on the "blackboard of affliction." The Puritan writer Thomas Brooks said it well... Stars shine brightest in the darkest night. Torches are the better for beating. Grapes come not to the proof till they come to the press. Spices smell sweetest when pounded. Young trees root the faster for shaking. Vines are the better for bleeding. Gold looks the brighter for scouring; and juniper smells sweeter in the fire. Spurgeon echoes Brooks thoughts... I am afraid that all the grace that I have got out of my comfortable and easy times and happy hours might almost lie on a penny. But the good that I have received from my sorrows, and pains, and griefs, is altogether incalculable. What do I not owe to the crucible and the furnace, the bellows that have blown up the coals, and the hand which has thrust me into the heat?...Our troubles have always brought us blessings, and they always will. They are the dark chariots of bright grace....The tears of affliction are often needed to keep the eye of faith bright. In Jesus' last words to His disciples He too spoke of the great "affliction" (the Cross) He would soon face and encouraged His men who would soon also experience afflictions for the sake of His Name... John 16:33 “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation (thlipsis), but take courage (present imperative - command to make this attitude their lifestyle - How possible? They would soon have Another Helper, implying that Jesus had been their "Helper", and the Holy Spirit would strengthen them in their inner manner with power - Acts 1:8-note, Eph 3:16-note) ; I have overcome the world.” Comment: Beloved, let us hear and take to heart, Paul's example of facing afflictions and Jesus' warning and encouragement regarding coming affliction. The Christian life is not a picnic, but a war. We have three inveterate moral enemies - the world, the flesh and the devil. Paul in his last recorded words gave Timothy a prophetic promise which was also a warning of coming afflictions declaring "indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted." (2Ti 3:12-note) Acts 20:24 "But I do not consider my life of any account as dear to myself, so that I may finish my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify solemnly of the Gospel of the grace of God: all' oudenos logou poioumai (1SPMI) ten psuchen timian emauto os teleiosai (AAN) ton dromon mou kai ten diakonian en elabon (1SAAI) para tou kuriou Iesou, diamarturasthai (AMN) to euaggelion tes charitos tou theou.: Ac 21:13 Ro 8:35-39 1Co 15:58 2Co 4:1,8,9,16-18, 6:4-10, 7:4, 12:10 Eph 3:13 1Th 2:2, 3:3 2Ti 1:12, 3:11 4:17 Heb 10:34, 12:1-3 Account: Co 5:8 Php 1:20-23, 2:17, Col 1:24 1Jn 3:16 Rev 12:11 might: Jn 17:4 1Co 9:24-27 Php 3:13-15 2Ti 4:6-8 and the ministry: Ac 1:17, 9:15, 22:21 26:17,18 1Co 9:17,18 2Co 4:1 Ga 1:1 Titus 1:3 testify solemnly: Ac 20:21 Jn 15:27 Heb 2:3,4 Gospel of the grace of God: Ac 14:3 Luke 2:10,11 Ro 3:24-26, 4:4, 5:20,21, 11:6 Eph 1:6, 2:4-10 Titus 2:11, 3:4-7 1Pe 5:12 THE SECRET OF PAUL'S STRONG FINISH 2Ti 4:7-note But (term of contrast) should alway prompt at least one question - What is being contrasted? (Why?, etc). In the present context, Paul is contrasting the reality of the certainty of "bonds and afflictions" with the reality of his attitude of accepting whatever the good hand of the Lord brings. This is clearly the heart of one who knows that he is not his own but has been bought with the price of the precious blood of Christ and that the purpose of his life is now to glorify God (1Cor 6:19-note, 1Cor 6:20-note, Titus 2:14-note, 1Pe 1:18, 19-note, Mt 5:16-note) And as we read about Paul, we need to remember his charge to the believers in Corinth (and by application to us today) to Be (present imperative = command to make this one's lifestyle, something possible only as we yield to and are enabled by the Holy Spirit) imitators of me, just as I am of Christ." (1Cor 11:1) Will imitating Paul and Jesus involve suffering for the Name above all names? It is a guarantee, but enabled by the same Spirit Who empowered Paul, we must not shrink from the high and holy call upon each of our lives! (Cp 2Ti 3:12-note, Phil 1:29-note) You are not really ready to live for Christ until you are willing to die for Christ. TO LIVE = CHRIST TO DIE = GAIN Php 1:21-note I do not consider my life of any account as dear to myself - Paul presents a proper perspective for our short life on earth! Nothing, absolutely nothing deters Paul from his holy purpose! "I do not consider my life worth anything to myself" (NET), "But I count my life of no value to myself" (HCSB), "But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself" (ESV), "But I do not place any value on my own life." (NJB). For a similar sentiment by Paul see 2Cor 4:7-12-note, 2Cor 6:4-10, 2Cor 12:9, 10-note, Php 1:20, 21-note, Php 2:17-note, Php 3:8-note, Col 1:24-note. Paul knew he was not his own, but that his life belonged to Jesus in Whose hands he was a "chosen instrument." (Acts 9:15). O for all of God's possessions to possess such a passionate persuasion! My life - Literally "my soul!" Albert

Atos 20:28-38

Meyer comments... "Remember," he said to the elders of the Ephesian Church, "that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears" (Acts 20:31). Each word is significant! Not content with appealing to them by day, he must needs invade his nights; when worn by emotion, labour, and teaching, his tired body might surely claim repose. Nor was this a spasmodic devotion to be followed by spells of indolence and lethargy. He did not cease this ministry for three long years; but pursued it without relaxation, without interruption, without pause. Nor was this work prosecuted with the persistence of a zealot or the eagerness of a partisan; but with the tears of a soul lover. (Paul A Servant of Jesus Christ) Admonish (warned, cautioned, gently reproved, exhorted)(3560)(noutheteo from noús = mind + títhemi = place; see Nouthesia) literally means to place in the mind and so to warn or give notice to beforehand especially of danger or evil. The idea is to lay it on the mind or heart of the person, with the stress being on influencing not only the intellect, but also the will, emotions and disposition. The idea is to counsel about avoidance or cessation of an improper course of conduct. Noutheteo describes "putting sense into someone’s head", alerting them of the serious consequences of their actions and does not mean being judgmental or critical in a superior manner but instead imparting a caring kind of warning against danger. Noutheteo is in the present tense which indicates Paul was continually admonishing, warning, cautioning, etc English dictionaries state that to admonish is to indicate duties or obligations to; to express warning or disapproval to especially in a gentle, earnest, or solicitous manner; to give friendly earnest advice or encouragement to; to reprove firmly but not harshly; to advise to do or against doing something; warn; caution. Writing to the disciples of Jesus at Rome Paul exhorted them... Now I urge you, brethren, keep your eye (skopeo in the present tense = continually keep your attention) on those who cause dissensions (dichostasia = divisions) and hindrances (skandalon = that which entices others to stumble) contrary to the teaching which you learned, and turn away from them. For such men are slaves, not of our Lord Christ but of their own appetites; and by their smooth and flattering speech they deceive (exapatao in the present tense = they continually thoroughly beguile and lead astray their victims) the hearts of the unsuspecting. (Ro 16:17-18-note)