Focused on the Gospel

“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.” ^ESV Acts 20:24

The book of Acts tells us that while Paul was in Athens, his spirit was provoked because he noticed that everywhere he turned, people were worshiping idols. They even had an idol to an unknown God.

So, as was his custom everywhere he went, Paul did everything within his power and means to convince the Athenians of the truth regarding the one true God; the God of the Bible. Paul was always focused on sharing the gospel.

In the case of the Athenians, he had to first point out to them that there was only one true God who was creator of heaven and earth. But his custom according, to his first letter to the Corinthians, was to share the story of Jesus. He says that he “…delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to Scriptures…” Paul shared this story of Jesus everywhere he went.

Paul’s ministry was by no measure an easy one. His concern for the early churches weighed heavy on him and his teachings met frequent opposition. His travels were hard and difficult and many times they exposed him to danger from robbers. He recounts many nights without food, water or shelter. The Jews had given him thirty-nine lashes on at least five occasions. He had been beaten with rods, stoned, shipwrecked, and spent time adrift at sea. Yet Paul never lost his singular focus; the gospel of Jesus Christ.

There were occasions when Paul saw some fruit from his labors. But he credited any growth in the church to God; admitting only to planting the seed of truth himself.

In our verse today, we see Paul saying goodbye to the Ephesians as he prepares to go to Jerusalem; unsure of the fate that awaited him. What calamity would he encounter this time? Would they beat him? kill him? or would they accept the seed that he would plant?

Paul’s attitude regarding his ministry should be an inspiration to all who labor to deliver the truth. To the pastor, take courage preaching to an unresponsive congregation. To the Sunday School teacher, take joy as you prepare for hours in order to deliver a thirty minute lesson. To the choir, sing praises as unto the Lord! To the volunteers in the shadows, persevere. To all, stay focused on testifying to the gospel of the grace of God; Jesus.

Ken worships at Tharptown Baptist Church in Russellville where he leads an adult Bible study. Comments are welcome and may be sent to kenaskew@charter.net.