Real Hope: Paul the ApostleSample

A Devoted Disciple

READ ACTS 20:13–38

This emotional scene is the last of Paul’s itinerant ministry – while a free man, anyway. We learned, from the verses before, that he was determined to reach Jerusalem, even though persecution and imprisonment were sure to follow. With this knowledge, he called his friends, the elders from the church in Ephesus, to speak with them one last time. He shared his reflections, stories and best advice. Finally, he wept with them and said goodbye. It was a threshold moment for Paul.

To me, this passage highlights the true courage that Paul brought to his ministry. The fact that he was willing to sail towards certain persecution… absolutely. But even more, in this moment Paul was releasing leadership of one of his most successful church plants. He was letting go of what was no longer his to hold.

We live in a society that says we can have it all. This isn’t true, because as we go through life we often have to leave things behind. Sometimes taking a step forward costs us everything we’ve gained so far. The true mark of a disciple is being willing to take that step, even when it costs us, for the sake of Jesus’ kingdom.

Are you holding back from what God is calling you into because of what it might cost? Have you taken that step, but you’re struggling to let go of what’s no longer yours to hold? Take a moment to be inspired by Paul’s example then bring this to God in prayer.

Written by CHRIS GRESHAM-BRITT