Today’s reading: Acts 20:17-27
Paul is the compleat holy warrior. In his farewell speech at Miletus, he testified as to what makes for a holy warrior.
First, Paul was humble. “I served the Lord with all humility” (v.19a). He was the great apostle, appointed by Jesus himself. He established and nurtured missions. But he knew he was just an instrument, and that apart from the power of God he was nothing. Such humility enabled him to be used by the Spirit even more.
Second, Paul was Spirit-filled. He was led by the Spirit and was docile to the Spirit. He did not ask questions but simply obeyed, ready to face any challenge. “But now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem. What will happen to me there I do not know” (v.22). He boldly went forth, even as “in one city after another the holy Spirit has been warning me that imprisonment and hardships await me.” (v.23). Nothing deters a holy warrior.
Third, Paul was focused on the pastoral well-being of people. He most wanted to share God’s love and God’s salvation. “I did not at all shrink from telling you what was for your benefit, or from teaching you in public and in your homes.” (v.20). He taught the fullness of God’s revelation. “I did not shrink from proclaiming to you the entire plan of God.” (v.27). He reached out to everyone, desiring that all be saved. “I earnestly bore witness for both Jews and Greeks to repentance before God and to faith in our Lord Jesus.” (v.21).
Fourth, Paul was totally focused, willing to give his all, even unto death. “Yet I consider life of no importance to me, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to bear witness to the gospel of God’s grace.” (v.24). With the consolation of the Spirit, he could face anything and everything. He served “with the tears and trials that came to me” (v.19b).
The holy warrior is a humble instrument of God, boldly witnessing to Jesus, empowered by the Holy Spirit, giving his all even unto death.
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