Putting cows on the front page since 1885.
Should We Skip It
Scriptures to Read
Acts 20:1-6
II Corinthians 2:12-17
I Corinthians 16:1-7
II Corinthians 8:1-7
Romans 15:25-29
Acts 20:2-3
Acts 19:21-22
Acts 20:1-6 does not seem to have much in the way of teaching/preaching material. So, we might be tempted to skip over this small section. But when we combine these verses with things gleaned from the letters Paul wrote, we can find some interesting things. We now know Paul has solidified his plans and he is going on to Jerusalem. His hope was to get there to celebrate Passover from his historical heritage standpoint but also to join the Church in celebration of Christ's victory over sin and the beginnings of Lord's Supper.
Barclay suggests that as much as a year might be contained in these few brief verses. Do not forget he is carrying a large gift from the Christian Churches in that area to relieve the financial suffering of the Church in Jerusalem and Judea. He had intended to meet Titus for an update on the Churches at Crete and Corinth. Titus was also delayed but brought glowing reports which brought rejoicing to the heart of Paul. Then, there was a change in travel plans. They had intended to use a sea voyage to travel. But a plot of the Jews to assassinate Paul was uncovered. Plans changed. Can you imagine how easy it would be to murder a man on a boat?
So the changes in plans also required some time. But, while engaged in these things, Paul also found time to write the letter to Rome. What a blessing that has become to the Church of the ages. It is mentioned that Paul encouraged. This happens over and over. Paul knows full well that persecution is a part of the existence of the Christianity. It comes from multiple sources and in many ways. It behooves us to follow Paul's example and encourage each other.
This small Scripture section also lists a number of people from various places that are accompanying Paul. This is wonderful. There will come a time that Paul is relatively alone and lonely. Not comfortable. Now they are with him. Can you imagine what a great thing this was? Of course some were assigned by their congregations to accompany the funds they were sending to Jerusalem and in and of itself that is great. But just think, how good it would be to travel with Paul, that wonderful Bible teacher/preacher. Just think, he spent part of every day teaching and preaching.
We have thought several times about going on a religious cruise. It isn't the water or the amenities that draw us. It is the time spent under the teachings available. I think of what a blessing it would be to listen to Chuck Swindoll, David Jeremiah or another great preacher/teacher for multiple days. Paul's heart and mind are so full of the love of Christ, he just wants to share.
He may also have a premonition of how short his time left on this earth may be. We do know even on this journey there will be those who prophesy his arrest. If you knew you only had a few months to live, what would you feel you needed to cram into that short time; farewells, writing a will, changing some habits? Think about it. Time is short.
Reader Comments(0)