How can we discern when to stay or move on in ministry? Setting the Scene in Acts 18:20 Acts 18:20 records, “When they asked him to stay for a longer time, he declined.” Paul is in Ephesus. The synagogue invites him to remain, yet he senses the Lord leading him onward to Jerusalem. His refusal is neither rude nor impulsive; it is an act of obedience to God’s timing. Key Observations from the Passage • Open doors are not automatic green lights. • Paul listens for the Spirit’s prompting above human invitation. • Departure can be as Spirit-led as arrival. • Promise of return (v. 21) shows flexibility—Paul is willing to come back if God wills. Biblical Principles for Discerning “Stay” or “Move On” • Alignment with God’s mission – Acts 20:24 “my only aim is to finish the race.” – If mission progress stalls by staying, moving can advance the gospel. • Inner witness of the Spirit – Acts 16:6-7 the Spirit forbids certain routes. – Colossians 3:15 “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts.” • External affirmation and need – 1 Corinthians 16:9 “a great door for effective work has opened to me.” – When need persists and fruit remains, staying often fits. • Completion of assigned work – 2 Timothy 4:7 “I have finished the course.” – Finish what God clearly started before seeking the next field. • Stewardship of gifts and season of life – Ecclesiastes 3:1 “To everything there is a season.” – Our capacities change; stewardship may require relocation or role shift. • Holding plans loosely – James 4:15 “If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that.” – We plan, but God directs. Indicators It May Be Time to Stay • Gospel doors continue to open locally. • Believers still require foundational teaching (Acts 18:11). • Peace remains about the present assignment. • Fruit is multiplying and workers are few (Matthew 9:37-38). Indicators It May Be Time to Move On • Clear leading of the Spirit contrary to remaining (Acts 18:21). • Work is complete and leaders are in place (Titus 1:5). • Persistent lack of receptivity after faithful witness (Matthew 10:14). • New, urgent opportunity arises that fits calling (Acts 16:9-10). Walking This Out Today • Submit every ministry decision to Scripture and prayerful listening. • Seek wise counsel yet obey God’s personal directive. • Trust that staying or moving, when Spirit-led, will bear fruit and honor Christ. Confident Obedience The same Lord who guided Paul guides us. When His Word, His Spirit, and providential circumstances converge, we can follow without hesitation—whether that means planting deeper roots or stepping into a new field. |
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