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THAT I MAY FINISH MY RACE WITH JOY

Text: Acts 20:20-24
13 October 2019

MINISTRY SECRETS

The Apostle Paul had a very good way of ministering effectively. The “secret” of his ministry was shared with the leaders of the church at Ephesus.

  1. Keeping the Ministry in sight

a) A teaching ministry 

b) This involved:

i)   Public speaking

ii)  Door to door evangelism 

c) Message proclaimed:

i)   Repentance toward God

ii)  Faith toward the Lord Jesus Christ 

  1. Keeping the End in sight too

Paul also kept the end in clear sight. 

a) He saw his life as a race

He wanted to finish his race with joy

b) He also saw it as a ministry which he received from the Lord 

i)   To testify to the gospel

ii) To testify of the grace of God

MEETING CHALLENGES ALONG THE WAY

There were many challenges along the way:

1. Evil plots of the Jews and Gentiles

2. Many tears shed as the obstacles were overcome

3. Forewarning given

a) Chains awaited him (imprisonment)

b) Tribulations awaited him too

c) These were given as forewarning by the Holy Spirit

4. But he kept a strong spirit of faith and commitment

a) Nothing fazed him

b) He did not count his life dear to himself

c) All he wanted was to be faithful to the very end

THE EXAMPLE OF PAUL

Thank God for his good example. Let us be challenged to learn from his example. May we develop our faith and fortitude!