My little addition to Our Daily Bread (8/15/2012):
“And now I [Paul] am on my way to Jerusalem, bound in my spirit not knowing what I will encounter there, except that in town after town the Holy Spirit testifies to me that chains and afflictions are waiting for me. But I count my life of no value to myself, so that I may finish my course and the ministry I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of God’s grace.” (Acts 20:16b, 22b-24 HCSB)
Paul used the word “bound” to describe his reason for heading to Jerusalem (the “not optional” tone consistent across all English translations I’ve seen). He felt he must not be delayed by a stop in Ephesus, but sent that the leaders of the church should meet him at his stop over in Miletus so that he could impart this prayer request. This Apostle who urged believers “to present your bodies as a living sacrifice” (Romans 12:1) did not do so out of a hypocrisy, but walked the walk that proved his belief that the importance of his deeds far outweighed any pain or suffering his body may receive. Though not embracing the thought of impending pain and suffering with broad-grinned joy, Paul clearly did not back down from the pull of the Spirit. He thought nothing of the personal cost having already committed his life to follow the call. When the sacrifice is made in advance, the cost is of little consequence.
- Andy Jentes
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