What is the meaning of Acts 20:33? I have not coveted Acts 20:33 opens with a flat, literal denial of coveting: “I have not coveted”. Paul’s words mirror the tenth commandment (Exodus 20:17) and demonstrate practical obedience. • Coveting is inward, invisible, yet God still forbids it (Romans 13:9). • Jesus warned, “Guard yourselves against every form of greed” (Luke 12:15). • A content life reflects trust in God’s provision (Hebrews 13:5). Paul can hold his life up as evidence that the gospel frees believers from the restless craving the world calls normal. anyone’s silver By singling out silver—currency—Paul insists he never aimed to profit from ministry. • He made tents in Corinth “so that I would not be a burden to anyone” (Acts 18:3; 2 Corinthians 11:7-9). • He reminds the Thessalonians, “We never used words of flattery or a pretext for greed” (1 Thessalonians 2:5). • Jesus’ own teaching rings behind Paul: “No one can serve two masters…You cannot serve both God and money” (Matthew 6:24). His example rebukes spiritual leaders who treat God’s flock as a revenue stream and reassures believers that the message, not the messenger’s pocket, is foremost. or gold Gold intensifies the point. Silver covers daily expenses; gold represents luxury and security. • James warns the rich, “Your gold and silver have corroded” (James 5:1-3). • Paul later instructs Timothy, “Command those who are rich…not to put their hope in wealth” (1 Timothy 6:17-19). • Jesus told the rich young ruler, “Sell your possessions…then come, follow Me” (Matthew 19:21-24). Paul’s hands stayed clean of every lure of opulence so his hearers could see where true treasure lies (1 Peter 1:18-19). or clothing In the ancient world, fine garments advertised status. Paul declines even that lesser perk. • Jesus said, “Consider the lilies…Will He not much more clothe you?” (Matthew 6:28-33). • John the Baptist urged generosity: “Anyone with two tunics must share with him who has none” (Luke 3:11). • Contentment boils down to “food and clothing” (1 Timothy 6:8). • James rebukes favoritism toward the well-dressed (James 2:1-4). By refusing fashionable apparel, Paul undercuts social pride and models a servant lifestyle. summary Paul’s brief sentence is a lived commentary on the tenth commandment. He rejected covetous thoughts, refused financial gain, spurned luxury, and even bypassed status symbols. The cross references show a seamless biblical thread: God wants hearts free from greed so we can give ourselves fully to Christ and His people. |
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