He had a group of men with him, representatives from each city where a church was planted. they were bringing gifts to Jerusalem. And note in v5, it changes from talking of Paul to talking of "us". Luke joins the group here.
Notice that Paul took 5 days for a 7 day stay. This trip normally took 2 days, so something was hindering their travel. Remember, opposition may change your path, but be ready "in all seasons" to work for God. He will direct your path.
We see that ever since the first lord's supper, the church continues to meet and break bread on the first day of the week.
The People's New Testament says, "...the Lord arose on the first day of the week, showed himself to the apostles a second time one week later on the first day of the week, that the church was founded and the Holy Spirit shed forth on Pentecost, which was on the first day of the week."
Their services don't last an hour and fifteen minutes...this one lasted until midnight. It must have been stuffy in that room. Because a young man drops out of a window three stories to his death!
Paul brings him back to himself by throwing himself , arms around him and says, "Do not fear...he's alive!" Luke says nothing about Paul pounding on his chest or administering any medical help. Being a doctor, he would've noted that for sure. It was the power of the Word.
We have that same resurrection power in our words. We can heal, we just have to have that faith. Our words can destroy a life or we can bring life to someone.
When do we start checking our watches in church? How much time and effort do we really put towards learning the word and worship? I feel a bit humbled.
It reminds me of a story of a man visiting a church in a third world country...for 3 hours they sang and praised God. When they sat, he thought that was it...that was church. But the man with him smiled and said, "Ah my friend...now it's time for church!"
In verses 13-16 we see Paul sailing and very intent on getting to Jerusalem. So much so that instead of stopping at Ephesus, he sends for elders to visit him in Miletus.
He calls the elders together and makes himself an example for them. When we disciple someone, we should never ask them to do what we ourselves don't do. If you want them to get up at 5am to read their bible, you'd better be up at 4:55am to do it! We must be an example. They have to know it is possible and see the evidence in our lives of that same obedience we ask of them!
He commissions these men...the same ones he taught for two years at the school set up at Tyrannus and again in Ephesus.
You must also be ready to say like Paul that you did not hold back the Word from anyone. You must have no regrets!
In verses 28-31, we find excellent guidelines for church leaders or someone who disciples.
- Keep watch over yourself and your flock
- Shepherds who take their job seriously--blood bought
- Watch for wolves or false teachers...those who take advantage of your disciples
- Watch fellow teachers who may twist the Word to steal some away for their own flocks
He then commits them to God and the Word of His grace. It is the Word that sanctifies--washes. Keep the love of money out of the ministry...PRAY.
Verses 31-35 lists 5 sins to watch out for:
- carelessness-be on the lookout!
- shallowness-be wise
- covetousness-don't wish you had someone else's things
- laziness-work hard
- selfishness-it is more blessed to give
Sometimes it is hard to say goodbye to good friends...they become like family to us. But we have a hope, that if they claim Christ as their Savior, we will see them again!
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