How can we apply Paul's perseverance in sharing the gospel to our lives? Setting the Scene Acts 28:23 tells us: “They set a day to meet with Paul, and they came in greater numbers to the place he was lodging. From morning till evening he expounded to them, testifying about the kingdom of God and persuading them about Jesus from the Law of Moses and the Prophets.” Paul is under house arrest, chained to a soldier, yet he gladly devotes an entire day to opening Scripture and pointing people to Christ. Paul’s Persevering Heart • Unshaken by circumstances—chains, trials, opposition (cf. Acts 20:24). • Consumed with Christ’s glory more than personal comfort (2 Corinthians 5:14–15). • Anchored in Scripture—he builds every argument “from the Law of Moses and the Prophets.” • Energized by the Spirit’s power, not mere willpower (Romans 15:18–19). Why Perseverance Matters Today • The gospel is “the power of God for salvation” (Romans 1:16). People still need it. • Opposition, apathy, or ridicule can tempt us to quit; Paul shows quitting isn’t an option. • Our consistency validates the message we carry (Philippians 1:27). Four Ways to Walk in Paul’s Footsteps 1. Prioritize Time for the Gospel − Schedule intentional conversations, visits, or studies just as Paul set a day. − Guard that time like any essential appointment. 2. Lean on the Whole Counsel of Scripture − Know the storyline from Genesis to Revelation so you can “reason” from it (Acts 17:2–3). − Memorize key passages that point to Christ (Isaiah 53; Psalm 22; John 3:16). 3. Stay the Course through Resistance − Expect mixed responses (Acts 28:24), yet keep sharing. − Remember Galatians 6:9: “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for in due time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” 4. Rely on the Spirit, Not Your Strength − Pray for boldness (Ephesians 6:19–20). − Trust that God opens hearts (Acts 16:14); our task is faithful proclamation. Scriptures That Fuel Endurance • 2 Timothy 4:2 – “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season.” • Hebrews 12:1–2 – “Run with perseverance the race set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus.” • 1 Corinthians 9:16 – “Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!” Living It Out This Week • Identify one person and one setting (coffee shop, lunch break, phone call) where you will share. • Spend fifteen minutes daily reading through the Gospels to deepen your love for Christ. • Ask the Lord each morning for an opportunity and the courage to speak when it comes. Paul’s day-long witness under guard reminds us that gospel work is never on pause. Chains, schedules, or cultural headwinds cannot silence the good news when God’s people persist in speaking it. |
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