Paul Sermon in Ephesus
The seventh sermon in the book of Acts: Acts 20:16-37 (specifically Acts 20:18-35).
Setting: Miletus
Speaker: Paul
Audience: Elders from the church of Ephesus
Preceding Events: Paul, compelled by the Holy Spirit, is steadfastly traveling to Jerusalem.
Overall Theme: Paul gives his personal testimony (he has worked hard for God, has no regrets, and is obeying the Holy Spirit) and offers encouragement to the elders. He will obey God regardless.
Scripture Quoted: Paul quotes Jesus, but those words are not directly found in the gospel accounts of Jesus.
Central Teaching: Paul will do what God tells him, even though it will result in hardships.
Subsequent Events: Paul leaves and once in Jerusalem is thrown in prison.
Key Lesson: Doing what God tells us to do is more important than our own safety and comfort.
This post is from the series “Sermons in the book of Acts.” Read about sermon #6 or sermon #8.
Read more about the book of Acts in Tongues of Fire: 40 Devotional Insights for Today’s Church from the Book of Acts, available in e-book, paperback, and hardcover.
Peter DeHaan writes about biblical Christianity to confront status quo religion and live a life that matters. He seeks a fresh approach to following Jesus through the lens of Scripture, without the baggage of made-up traditions and meaningless practices.
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