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"The Holy Spirit testifies..."

Text: Acts 20:23

THE PRESENCE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

The presence of the Holy Spirit may also be found in a very personal way. In Paul’s last address to the Ephesian Church leaders, he had this to share with them.

“And see, now I go bound in the spirit to Jerusalem,
not knowing the things that will happen to me there,
except that the Holy Spirit testifies in every city,
saying that chains and tribulations await me.
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.”
Acts 20:22-24

1. Understanding of ministry

a) It is given by the Lord Jesus Christ.

b) It is to testify of the gospel of the grace of God.

i) Paul was wondrously saved by grace.

ii) He was a classic example of the power of redemptive grace.

2. Paul’s commitment to this ministry given to him

a) He was “bound in spirit”.

b) This was his race and he wanted to finish it with joy.

c) The Spirit of God was with him every step of the way.

d) He received power from the Spirit of God for his ministry.

e) Thus he was able to enjoy great success in his ministry for the Lord.

3. The Holy Spirit testifies in every city

a) This was a very personal element.

b) The Spirit of God was saying something very special to Paul personally.

i) He informed Paul that chains and imprisonment awaited him in Jerusalem.

ii) This message was repeated “in every city”.

iii) This was described as “a testimony”.

c) This was thus not a command from the Spirit of God.

4. Paul had a choice

The Spirit of God was intimating to Paul that tough times lay ahead. He would be put in chains and be imprisoned. Paul had a choice and he made it. He was prepared to suffer for the Lord! He did not count his life dear to himself. He was prepared to lay his life down for the sake of the Lord Jesus Christ.