Read Acts 21 & 22
Sometimes we have the wrong attitude about death and suffering. In today's reading everyone is trying to discourage Paul from going to Jerusalem because they have been given a glimpse into the future and see what is awaiting Paul. Paul also knew what was ahead. He had already told his converts along the way that he would not see their face again. I noticed the number 7 was used twice in this chapter. "7" means "complete". His ministry was complete and nearing the end. We have been appointed a time to be born and a time to die. It's what we do with the in-between that counts. Paul made his life count and he is nearing the end. He is marching boldly and fearlessly into his final days.
He uses every opportunity to set up a platform to preach the good news. Even in the case of mistaken identity he sees this as a chance to witness. In Chapter 22 he stands before the mob that wants him dead and gives them his testimony. They listened intently till he got to the part about taking the message of Jesus to the Gentiles, then they went balistic. The chief captain maintained order by bringing Paul into the castle so he could question him and have him scourged. But as they are tying Paul up he asked about his Roman rights. A Roman is not to be bound or scourged.
I love Paul's answer to the guard who had bought his Roman citizenship. Paul responded, "I was born free." What a true statement. Before he was born God destined him to be his son. (Eph. 1:5) So Paul uses his Roman citizen card to get another chance to share his testimony before the council tomorrow.
I want to be that driven to tell the gospell. Paul saw every opportunity as an opportunity for Jesus. He was driven to tell the Good News. May we be that driven.
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