This next section of Acts helps us understand both the level of insight Paul has to the growth of the movement called: The Way, and the price he must pay for reaching the Lost. It demonstrates to us, how he has accessed the very core of the Father’s heart: his amazing great love for those who do not love him.
- The prophetic insight of where Father is leading him: I must go here, there, and reach this goal.
- Two, he seals the continued growth of the movement by giving responsibility to those he has trained. Timothy and Erastus
The riot in Ephesus
- A basic knowledge of God’s care: 1 Cor 10:13
- The impact the Gospel has on the world. Destruction of idols! Imagine the impact the Gospel ought to have on the pornographic industry!
- God’s deliverance and protection, even in using secular people.
Paul’s motivation for what he does:
- God’s love for the lost – 2 Peter 3:9
- The knowledge of Jesus’ return – comfort 1 Thess. 4:15-18
- Paul’s faith in God’s promises, power, and protection
Compare with matters that hinder God’s people from reaching the Lost.
- WFear of repercussions
- Fear of rejection
- My friends are all saved or not interested.
- I don’t know how to lead someone to Christ.
- Somebody else will do it, it’s their job.
- Unwilling to step outside of my comfort zone.
- Too old to reach young people/ don’t understand their culture.
- Too caught up with me, shy, insecure.
- Don’t know how to approach people of other cultures.
- Worldly behavior renders me useless to Kingdom purposes.
Pray for boldness, understanding the Father’s heart, look for Jesus’ return. Ephesians 6:19
