Journey Three
An´tioch of Syr´ia (Acts 18:22,23)
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gain Paul gets ready to begin another journey for the Lord. Once again we find him back at his headquarters bidding farewell to the brethren at An´tioch of Syr´ia. He spent some time with them, but nothing is said about what he did. However, it is reasonable to believe that he told them of his wonderful experiences on journey two, and made preparations to travel again. (Refer to Journey One for details of An´tioch of Syr´ia).
Country of Gala´tia and Phryg´ia (Acts 18:23)
Paul
could not miss an opportunity to visit the people that he converted to Christ,
and as he got this third journey under way, he covered the region of his birth.
The Scriptures merely say that he was “strengthening all the disciples.”
This shows that Paul was not only interested in converting men and women to Christ, but felt it important to hold faithfully in Christ. Thus he gave them strength to remain faithful. (For details of this country, refer to Journey Two).
This great missionary evidently felt the need for making Christians strong so that they could resist sin rather than waiting until they were in sin and then trying to rescue them. For it is true that each time we fall into sin, we are weakened and scarred even though we are brought back. Therefore, it is best to teach one another to be strong and to resist sin.
Once there was a little fly that saw a spider’s web in the corner of a room. “I’ll keep away from it,” he thought; “for if I should get one foot in it I might get two, and soon I would be caught altogether.”
Wasn’t that a wise little fly? In the same room was a little girl who had broken a vase. Something whispered in her ear, “Hide the pieces and don’t tell mother.” “No, no!” said she. “If I should deceive mother once, I might again, and pretty soon I should be telling wrong stories. I won’t begin.”
Wasn’t she a wise little girl?” —Mayflower.
Eph´esus (Acts 18:24-28; 19:1-20)
It seems that Paul was very anxious to return to Eph´esus. Do you recall on Journey Two how he stopped briefly in Ephesus, but could not stay long due to the feast in Jerusalem? (Acts 18:21). Well, now he is back! While he was getting back, Apol´los came to this city. His mission was to preach Christ, but needed further instruction.
It must have been an easy task for Priscil´la and Aq´uila to take him aside and teach him the many truths that Paul had taught them. With this more complete knowledge, Apol´los left for Acha´ia and became a great help to the brethren there.
The spreading of the gospel in the first century was a team effort. It is true that Paul did more than any other, but the help of others fortified his work. Paul recognized the help of others as well as the help of God. To the Corinthians he wrote, “I have planted, Apol´los watered, but God gave the increase (1 Corinthians 3:6). It required the smallest to the greatest effort to plant the seed of the kingdom of the Lord throughout the world.
A stranger in a city stood viewing a magnificent cathedral, admiring the genius of the architect who designed its fine proportions. An old man who was watching him drew near and inquired: “Well, sir, what do you think of it?”
After listening to the stranger’s expressions of praise and delight, the old man drew himself up and said, with a ring of pride in his voice: “I, sir, mixed the mortar for that building!”
Had no one been willing to do the lowly work of “mixing the mortar,” the beautiful building could not have been erected.
The Baptism of John or Jesus?
One of the first experiences that Paul had after returning to Eph´esus was the encountering of some people who were still keeping the baptism of John the Baptist. They did not know about the Spirit of God nor the fact that Christ had fulfilled what John had promised. After special instruction, they were baptized in the name of Christ, and Paul laid his hands on them and they received the Holy Spirit. Then they were able to speak with tongues and to prophesy.
It is amazing that Paul was able to spread good and to meet their needs wherever he went. Why? Because he was a servant of the Lord and entered each city ready to serve. He could not visit a city without leaving behind the fragrance of good works.
It was said of one of the best men of our generation, “Whenever he enters a room of any kind the conversation that was going on and the discussion, immediately sprang up to a far higher level than it was before.”
And to this added, “Men thought their best and spoke their best in his presence.”
What worthier commendation could any man have?”
Next, Paul entered the synagogue to teach, but once again he ran into Jews who hardened their hearts toward his message and even spoke evil of what he was saying. This, in turn, destroyed the effect he was having on the multitude, so he sought another place.
This
time he taught daily in the School of Tyran´nus. All in all, Paul was able to
teach and perform miracles for two years and three months here at Eph´esus. He
even cast out evil spirits, which was something that the people were well
acquainted with in their day. This type of miracle attracted the attention of
some of the wondering Jewish exorcists (vs. 13).
They
practiced sorcery before the people and decided that they would attempt to cast
out a spirit in the name of Christ just as Paul had done. Luke mentions seven
sons of a Jewish chief priest named Sce´va (vs. 14), who attempted to remove an evil spirit. However, it
did not happen as they planned! The man with the evil spirit leaped on them and
they were harmed physically, and left the house naked and wounded (vs.
16).
What a positive effect this incident had on a city of gods and sorcery! Many feared and believed; brought their books for burning, and gave up their sorcery. In fact, these books were valued at fifty thousand pieces of silver.
The people of Ephesus were evidently searching for something, but had not found it in all their gods and books of sorcery. Word by word, the great apostle revealed the greatness of God’s Son, Jesus Christ, until they found the real source of spiritual life. The loss of the books valued at fifty thousand pieces of silver must have seemed as nothing compared to what they had found.
Do you remember the story of the lost portrait of Dante at Florence? A certain artist was determined to find it again. He went into the palace where tradition said it had been painted. The room was used as a storehouse. The walls were covered with dirty whitewash. He had the heaps of rubbish carried away. Patiently and carefully he removed the whitewash.
Lines and colors long hidden began to appear; and at last the grave, lofty, noble face of the great poet looked out again upon the world of light.
“That was wonderful,” you say, “that was beautiful!”
Not half so wonderful as the work which Christ came to do in the heart of man—to restore the forgotten image of God and bring the divine image to the light. He comes to us with the knowledge that God’s image is there, though concealed; He touches us with the faith that the likeness can be restored.” —Henry Van Dyke.
Now, don’t get the idea that all of Paul’s work in Eph´esus was easy and successful. For Deme´trius, a silversmith and maker of silver shrines for Dian´a, called together his fellow craftsmen and stirred them up. He informed them that Paul and workers were threatening their security and that something had to be done.
The word spread that the great goddess Dian´a was being threatened and the city was disturbed. They caught two of Paul’s workers, Gai´us and Aristar´chus and took them into the theatre. Paul wanted to go inside the theatre to see what was happening, but his friends advised him not to enter.
They
finally drew Alexan´der out of the crowd and he attempted to calm them down.
However, when they learned that he was a Jew, they would not come to attention,
but for two hours cried out, “Great is Diana of the Ephesians!” (vs. 34).
It finally took the town–clerk to reason with them as he pointed out that if Deme´trius had any complaint he should let the law handle it. He further pointed out that they could all get into trouble for their actions—then he dismissed the assembly.
At this point of the journey, we might get the idea that the devil is winning—that the opposition is so great that Paul and workers will fail. However, these problems will be temporary in nature, and Paul will leave behind a strong body of Christians. It seems that God used the many difficulties as stepping-stones to even greater success.
Once there was a famous bridge over a swiftly flowing river. In the midst of this stream was a mass of rock, which had wrecked many a vessel. It had been the terror of river men. When at length the bridge was constructed this mass of rock was used to support the columns that upheld the bridge. That which had been an obstacle was turned into a help by the genius of man.
Thus, often, God overrules our trials and enemies to give us strength and victory in the end.
Paul purposed to go to Jeru´salem after passing through Macedo´nia, Acha´ia, and later to Rome. However, in the meantime he sent Timothy and Eras´tus on to Macedo´nia. (See Journey Two for details on this city).
Macedon´ia (Acts 20:1)
Very little is said of Paul as he toured the various parts of Macedon´ia except that he gave them much exhortation. Just a little later on in this journey, Luke tells of certain stops in Macedon´ia.
Even though Luke does not choose to give a step-by-step report on Paul’s work in these general areas, there is one lesson that we can learn. Paul was busy! He was not idly traveling over the country. Busy men and women have always pleased God. Those who choose idleness cannot carry out His will! When God wants a worker, he calls a worker.
Moses was busy with his flocks at Ho´reb. Saul was busy searching for his father’s donkeys. David was busy caring for his father’s sheep. Elisha was busy plowing with twelve yoke of oxen. Nehemiah was busy bearing the king’s wine cup. Amos was busy following the flock. Peter and Andrew were busy casting a net into the sea. James and John were busy mending their nets. Matthew was busy collecting customs.
Greece (Acts 20:2,3)
Once
again we find Paul entering Greece. How can we forget his successful work
during his Second Journey through these parts? He looked over his previous work
as he spent three months. In his mind he purposed to sail to Syr´ia, but the
Jews were waiting for him and he changed his mind. He then decided to return to
Macedo´nia. He had accomplished much in Greece. He wrote the epistle to the
Romans while at Cor´inth (Romans 15:25; 16:1).
Seven men accompanied Paul to Asia and possibly all seven of them went on before Paul to Tro´as.
There were so many times when Paul did not know the direction to go—God showed him. There were times when he did not know how he would escape from dangers—God delivered him. As Christians today, do we do our best and then commit ourselves to the guidance of God?
A hunter in Switzerland fell many feet into one of the great crevasses of the ice, but without injury. He appeared to be in a hopeless position, as he could not climb out and he would soon freeze if left there. A stream of water was flowing down the crevasse and this he followed, wading, stooping, crawling as best he could.
At last he came to a vaulted cavern, from which he could see no outlet. Commending himself to God, he cast himself into the stream. For a moment he was whirled along through darkness. Then sunlight burst upon him and he was cast up amid the meadows of the valley of Chamouni.
Philip´pi (Acts 20:6)
In
order to sail to Tro´as, Paul went by land to Philip´pi where he was joined
again by Luke, the author of Acts who recorded all of these journeys. At this
point in Philip´pi, Luke begins using aging “we” and “us” in describing the
happenings. As far as we can know, Luke never left Paul again. He tells the
story as an eyewitness. They remained in Philip´pi until after the day of
Unleavened Bread (vs. 6), and then
sailed for Tro´as. (Refer to Journey Two).
Some friendships are made for life, and whether the storms of life are raging or calm, such friendships stand secure. Paul had others to come and go, but Luke stood by him to the end. Only God and eternity know the help and comfort that these men brought to each other.
Two young men roomed together in college, and a very strong attachment was formed between them. Later they entered business in the same city, and their affection continued and deepened until they were both gray haired. The hour came when one of them was waiting in agony at a telegraph station for news from a dying son. His friend of the years stood by his side. He spoke no word nor offered any sympathy, save that he returned the handclasp of the brokenhearted father. He did not need to speak. His was the silent comfort of love.
Tro´as (Acts 20:5-13)
Again Paul returns to the city where he received the vision to go into Macedo´nia and preach the gospel (Acts 16:9). It took them only five days to make the trip, and they must have spent a very profitable seven days.
It
is at this stop that Paul and disciples of Christ gave us the example as to
when Christians should partake of the Lord’s Supper. “And on the first day
of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached to
them until midnight” (vs. 7).
This is our New Testament example for remembering the Lord and His death. It is so important that we take time each week to remember our Lord. As we get involved in the busy world, we may reach the point where we can’t see Jesus. We become like Zacchæ´us in the sense that our spiritual stature is short. What can we do about this? Like Zacchæ´us, we must climb up into a tree to see him. This is done each Lord’s day by remembering Christ’s body and blood. Add to this our worship in song, prayer, giving, and preaching the word, and we are able to see our Lord.
Many preachers today feel badly when some in their audience fall asleep during their preaching. But it happened to Paul! Eu´tychus not only fell asleep, but fell out of a window from the third floor and was killed. However, Paul gave the occasion a happy ending by performing a miracle to bring him back to life. Truly the power of God was with them and they talked until daylight.
As´sos (Acts 20:13,14)
As´sos was merely a seaport town with little importance in Mys´ia. It became only a landing place for Paul and companions as they continued their journey. Remember, this was only a short distance from Tro´as, and Paul traveled this distance by foot while the others sailed. Then the company met in As´sos and continued the journey together by taking a one day voyage to Mityle´ne.
As we travel with Paul and workers, some of the places have very little happenings. However, we should never lose sight of the fact that these men are bringing Christianity to the known world. When you add the exciting stops to those that were routine, you have an overall mission being ac-complished—Christianity being spread!
Christianity with all its blemishes from the conduct of deficient Christians has surely established a claim upon men’s consideration. It has changed the face of the world and all for the better. It has given man his chance at forgiveness and at holiness of character and of life.
It has ameliorated the condition of the poor and oppressed; it has freed the slave; it has saved the drunkard and the victim of lust; it has promoted social advance and political liberty; it has permeated the world with its passion for pity and kindness; it has established hospitals for the sick, care for the orphan, homes for the aged, schools for the ignorant, protection for the weak and succor for the needy.
Mityle´ne (Acts 20:4)
As the missionaries left As´sos, they took a ship to a little island called Lesbos in the Ægean Sea. On this island, they visited its chief town, Mityle´ne that was located on the east coast. At this point, Paul was only ten or twelve miles from the coast of Asia Minor. This city was the capital of Lesbos and was noted also for its beautiful buildings.
Nothing is mentioned about this city as to preaching, but we are told that they spent the night here. This city must have added much to the color and beauty of this journey.
The more we learn of God’s word and how He has shown His love to mankind, the more we appreciate His creation. Those who don’t know God, spend their time trying to account for creation apart from God. However, those who know Him can see Him in all creation.
The following author had this concept in mind when he wrote these words:
In my home hangs a painting of beautiful roses. I never look at it but I think of the dear girl who painted it. It is a constant reminder of her love, though we have not met for years. In looking out upon the grand and beautiful in the earth, sky and sea, I like to think, “My Father made it and pronounced it good.”
It draws us tenderly near the Infinite to think lovingly upon all He has made, and nature is as truly a revelation of God to us as His written word.
Chi´os (Acts 20:15)
Paul and traveling companions only passed this little island of the Ægean Sea. It is divided from the mainland by a strait of five miles and the island itself is only 32 miles in length as its width varies from eight to eighteen miles. You can see by observing a map that it has Les´bos on the north and Samos on the South.
Samos (Acts 20:15)
The text says only that they arrived at or touched at Samos. It seems that Luke is saying that they sailed close to this little island off the coast of Asia Minor. This island with an eighty-mile circumference was just across from Trogyl´lium where they spent the night.
Trogyl´lium (Acts 20:15)
This was a high point of land, which projected out into the sea just off the western coast of Asia Minor. Again this seems to be only an overnight stopping place for the apostle. Just east of this point is a place today called St. Paul’s Port.
The next day they were on their way to Mile´tus.
As these men make their voyage from island to island, they must have had on their minds the goal of reaching places where they could share Christ. Even though Christ died for all, thousands would die from spiritual thirst unless they are shown the true water of life. Christ has an abundance of water, but the sinners must drink. Paul desired more than anything else to point them to the living stream for drink.
Springs of water have been discovered only a few feet under the surface in one of the deserts of Colorado where scores of persons have died from thirst. The water was there had they only known to dig a few feet deeper in the sand.
Mile´tus (Acts 20:15-36)
Mile´tus was about 36 miles south of Eph´esus, but some authorities say that on land, one was forced to travel 70 miles to get from Mile´tus to Eph´esus. This town, many years before Paul’s time, had been truly famous. However, much of its glory was given over to Eph´esus. It still had a temple of Apollo and was classified as a second rate trading town.
Perhaps you are wondering why Paul waited until arriving at Mile´tus to call for the Ephe´sian elders when back at Trogyl´lium he was only a short distance from Eph´esus. We will never know for sure, but it was probably due to the sailing schedule. If Paul had been the captain of the ship, this arrangement might have been changed.
Likewise, it is possible that Paul could not get enough time for this meeting of the elders until arriving at Mile´tus. We do know that he did not want to stop at Eph´esus since he was short of tie and desired to make the Feast of Pentecost in Jerusalem. So, he asked the elders at Eph´esus to come to him in Mile´tus.
A young man went on a summer tour to Europe and was to spend a par of it in the Alps. In company with his guide and some other travelers, he came to one of the most dangerous passes, and the guide said, “Now you must all be strapped together.”
So he harnessed them all to a rope, and some guides went on before and other guides came after.
The chief guide said, “Now, this is very dangerous.”
The young man did not like to be harnessed up in that way, so he slipped out of the strap and three minutes after he did it his feet slipped and he went down three hundred feet and was dashed to pieces in a moment. —A.J. Gordon.
Farewell Address (Acts 20:18-38)
This is one of the most touching times of Paul’s work. We cannot help but see in this address Paul’s love for the church and souls of men. In order to instruct them of their duties as elders, he first reminded them of his behavior as a missionary. He had labored with his own hands to care for his physical needs, and had preached to the point where he could say that he had not failed to declare the whole counsel of God—he was free from the blood of all men.
With
a record like this, it became easier for him to say, “Therefore take heed to
yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you
overseers, to feed the church of God, which He has purchased with His own
blood” (vs. 28).
Paul knew that the road of being an elder was going to be rough. He even expressed that savage wolves would attack the flock of God and the flock of God would suffer. He knew that some of the worse troubles would arise from among the flock. Therefore, his charge to them was to take heed and watch, always keeping in mind his three years of sacrifice and work.
One of the things we learn from this text as well as from Paul’s epistles is that he feared division in the church. This is the most damaging kind of problem to Christ’s church. When there is trouble from within, the body is weakened and thus becomes more susceptible to harm from the devil. One of the weighty responsibilities of the elders is to watch the flock closely and try to keep peace within the body.
Cranes
When cranes are at peace they are hard to capture and are wary of approaching foes, but when they fall out among themselves they fight so fiercely that they beat one another down, and so are easily captured as they fight.
This really became a sad occasion when Paul predicted that they would not see his face again. Like any faithful servant of God, they knelt down and prayed. Burdens can be lightened regardless of their weight if we will let God help us lift. They could not leave him without showing great emotions by falling on his neck and kissing him. Even though this was a sad occasion, Paul must have remembered it often with joy!
When we put our deepest trust in prayer, we leave the consequences of life to God. Life will bring its joys and tears, but by faith one can believe that God will work things out for the best (Romans 8:28).
I asked God for strength, that I might achieve; I was made weak that I might learn humbly to obey. I asked for health, that I might do greater things; I was given infirmity that I might do better things. I asked for all things, that I might enjoy life; I was given life, that I might enjoy all things. I got nothing I asked for—but everything I had hoped for, almost despite myself, my unspoken prayers were answered. I am among all men most richly blessed. —An Unknown Confederate Soldier.
Cos (Acts 21:1)
This little island became only an overnight stop on this third journey. The text says “we ran a straight course to Cos.” It was only a one-day journey. In size the island was twenty-one miles long and six miles wide.
Rhodes (Acts 21:1)
Paul and workers arrived at Rhodes, which was a beautiful island in the Mediterranean Sea. It was rectangular in shape with a length of 45 miles and a width of 20 miles. It was located 50 miles southeast of Cos in the southwest of Asia Minor. This must have been a pleasant stop for the missionaries since it had a warm climate and grew orange and citron groves. It was also a commercial center due to its position in the sea.
Its name meant rosy or rosebush. One of its attractions during Paul’s time was a huge lighthouse that reached 105 feet into the air. It was known for its huge statue of Apollo.
It would be difficult for these men of Christ to see a lighthouse without thinking of Jesus the light of the world (John 8:12). Their mission was to bring light to a world groping in darkness. Just as men and women received help by looking upon this lighthouse, so must lost souls find their help by seeking Jesus, the light.
I asked the roses as they grow
Richer and lovelier in their hue,
What made their tints so rich and bright?
They answered: “Looking toward the light.”
—Alfie W. Hallmann
Pat´ara (Acts 21:1)
This was only a marine city where Paul and travelers found a ship sailing to Phœnic´ia.
Island of Cy´prus (Acts 21:3)
This island had played a great part in the work of Paul, but they did not stop here on this journey. They did come in sight of it as they passed it on the left. The journey continued on to Syr´ia without interruption.
Tyre in Syr´ia (Acts 21:3-6)
It
must have been to Paul a long voyage from Pat´ara to the chief city of
Phœnic´ia—Tyre. It was 350 miles, which could be made in five days, but they
must have been getting anxious to reach their destination. This city was
located on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, and it was a city noted for its
trade. It has an interesting history even in Old Testament times. More
importantly, how can we forget that Jesus visited Tyre in Syr´ia? (Matthew
15:21; Mark 7:24).
Over the years, thousands have visited the places where Jesus taught, performed miracles, and gave His life. It is certainly interesting to visit these places. However, it is far more important to walk where Jesus went spiritually. This becomes even more important when we realize that Jesus’ life and death (His mission on earth) was for you and me. The poet expresses this thought in these words:
Under an Eastern sky
Amid a rabble cry
A man went forth to die,
For me.
Thorns crowned His blessed head
Blood stained His weary tread,
Cross-laden He was led,
For me.
Pierced were His hands and feet
Three hours o’er Him beat
Fierce rays of noontide heat,
For me.
After a search, they found brethren at this stop, and enjoyed a fine fellowship. These brethren warned Paul not to go to Jeru´salem, but Paul knew what he must do.
Another touching scene is repeated as they knelt down in prayer just before leaving the brethren to travel on toward Jeru´salem. We do not know whether or not they sailed on the same ship or chose another. We do know that the ship they arrived on, unloaded and it is possible that they chose a smaller one bound for Jeru´salem.
You may wonder why Paul did not spend more time at these places. There may have been several reasons why he didn’t, but a very important one was because he felt an urgency in using his time on earth wisely. He longed to give himself and his time for lost souls. Evidently, he felt that whiter fields for harvest awaited him in Jeru´salem. Thus, he wanted to make the best use of his time.
If you had a bank that credited your account each morning with $43,200.00, the only catch being that you were not permitted to carry over any balance to the next day’s account, and that you lost the amount you failed to use during the day, what would you do? If you are like most of us, you would do your best to spend every cent, every day.
We do have such a bank, with its account containing not money, but time. Every morning we are given 43,200 seconds and every night, that is gone and the seconds that were not used will never be put back into that account.
Every person and every living thing eventually comes to the point where he had used up all his time on this earth.
The best advice is probably to continue to live a day at a time, yet keeping sight of long term goals and objectives in order to be prepared for the inevitable moment that faces all of us. —Harold Hudson.
Ptolema´is (Acts 21:7)
This is known as the most important seaport town on the Syr´ian coast. It was only 30 miles south of Tyre. We do learn that a church was here, and the missionaries spent one day and saluted the brethren before going on to Cæsare´a.
Cæsare´a
(Acts 21:8-14)
Here we have the apostle back at Cæsare´a. Do you recall that he made a short stop here when he returned on his Second Journey from Eph´esus?
He is now within 70 miles of Jeru´salem, and the closer he gets, the more he is persuaded not to go! The persuasion was climaxed when a prophet named Ag´abus came down while Paul and travelers were spending some time with Philip the evangelist. In order to make his warning more effective, Ag´abus took Paul’s belt and bound his own hands and said that the Holy Spirit says that the Jews will bind the man owning this belt in Jeru´salem.
Paul must have appreciated the prophet and all the brethren’s concern for his welfare, but he finally could not take it any longer. He let them know that they were only breaking his heart. He was not saying that nothing would happen to him, but rather that he was ready to, not only be bound, but also to die at Jeru´salem in the name of the Lord Jesus. This stopped them from their warnings, and they evidently decided that he was going to Jeru´salem, and that the Lord’s will would be done.
Paul was not the kind of man to run from trouble when he knew he was following the will of his Father. He believed the prophecy of Ag´abus, but he was more convinced that God wanted him in Jeru´salem. Therefore, he set aside his fears and doubts in the flesh, and obeyed his Father.
A circus was in a town and a little boy stood watching the great tent curiously. A neighbor, coming up, said: “Hello, Johnny, goin’ to the circus?”
“No, sir,” answered Johnny, “father don’t like ‘em.”
“Oh, well, I’ll give you the money to go,” said the man.
“Father don’t approve of them.”
“Well, go in for once. I’ll pay for you.”
“No, sir; my father would give me the money if he thought it best: besides, I’ve got twenty-five cents in my box—enough to go.”
“I’d go, Johnny, for once: it’s wonderful the way the horses do,” said the man. “Your father needn’t know it.”
“I can,” said the boy.
“Now, why?” asked the man.
“‘Cause,” said Johnny, “after I’ve been I couldn’t look father right in the eyes, but I can now.”
Outside
of the burden of what awaited Paul in Jerusalem, this must have been a pleasant
stay with Phil´ip the evangelist. He had four virgin daughters who could
prophesy, and Philip, you may recall, was one of the seven chosen to serve
tables in Jerusalem. This important work relieved the apostles so they could do
more praying and teaching the word (Acts 6:3,4).
Phil´ip must have been a great source of encouragement to Paul and workers, but such good association had to come to an end as the journey was continued 70 miles on to Jeru´salem.
Again, Paul must lay aside his desire to stay longer to enjoy this fellowship—he must go forward. Why? Because all of his investments are in heaven; therefore, he must look after them by continuing to serve on earth. If we do not have treasures in heaven, we are in deep poverty here on earth even though we are rich (Matthew 6:19,20).
A man was showing his friend how much he owned. He said, “Look in all four directions and just as far as you can see, that’s how much I own.”
His friend pointed straight up and asked, “What have you up there?” —V.P. Black.
Jeru´salem (Acts 21:15-40; 23:1-31)
As Paul and workers reached Jeru´salem, they reached the greatest city in the world as far as the Jews were concerned. It was situated (like many other cities of this time) on a high peak mountain. This city was only 32 miles from the Mediterranean Sea, and 18 miles from the Jordan River. It is amazing to note that in many respects this city was like a modern one. Even though it did not have a natural water supply, unless one considers the “Fountain of the Virgin” such, plenty of water was available.
The private citizens had their cisterns that that were supplied with water caught from their roofs, and the main city was supplied by many reservoirs which would hold an estimated ten million gallons. The largest of these reservoirs was called the Great Sea, and had a capacity of two million gallons. How were they filled? By catching water from rooms and from aqueducts or artificial tunnels cut from far away springs. The longest aqueduct was made by Pilate and was 40 miles long from the spring E´lam.
From a spiritual standpoint, Paul is entering a city with a long background for God. However, it is also a city where many had corrupted God’s way. Among their many sins was that of pride and self–righteousness.
Jesus had poured out His heart in warning them, but they refused Him. It is easy to imagine tears in the eyes of the Son of God when He said: “O Jeru´salem, Jeru´salem, you who kill the prophets, and stone those who are sent to you, how often I would have gathered your children together, even as a hen gathers her chickens under her wings, and you would not” (Matthew 23:37). He warned them of their eternal danger, but they were too full of pride to listen!
On the Mississippi river, a steamer was towing a heavily laden barge, when one of the sailors went to the captain and told him that the barge was sinking the steamer. The captain, with an oath, told the sailor to mind his own business.
Not long after the mate came to the captain, and said, “Sir, that barge is sinking us.”
“We are all right. I’ll take care of my own steamer,” was the captain’s reply.
Soon after the captain perceived the truth of what the sailor and mate had said, and ordered the ropes cut at once, because the heavily laden barge was sinking the steamer. The “ropes” were heavy chain, and before the links could be broken the barge had gone down, dragging the steamer with it.”
Now let us learn something of the splendorous Temple of Herod which was at this time one of the wonders of the world. It was not as large as Solomon’s Temple, but its large stones and skillful architectural designs made it truly a wonder. It required some 40 years in building and stood as a memorial of God’s dealings with the Hebrew race. It was conceived as a result of God giving the design of the tabernacle.
Jeru´salem means “the habitation of Peace,” but it did not bring such to the apostle Paul.
We will never have the honor of helping to build God’s physical house such as was in Jeru´salem, but we can help build a house of God that is even more important. This spiritual structure is composed of living stones built on Christ the foundation (1 Peter 2:5; 1 Corinthians 3:11). Each time we lead a soul to Christ, we are God’s builder. Each day we give Him a faithful life of service, we add strength to this structure. Great things will be accomplished if we will give Him our best.
There was a king who was very ambitious that his son should become a leader of men, and in order to impress upon him the possibilities that were in him, he used to frequently stand by him and lay his hands on the youth’s head and say with deep feeling, “You can. You can. You can.”
This experience so influenced the young man to effort that he led an energetic life and made a profound impression upon his age. What every young person needs is to be impressed with this thought, “I can do something for God. I can help in the building of His kingdom I can. I can!”
The pattern was not changed from other stops, for the brethren first received Paul gladly, but later persecuted by the Jews. Time was very important, and Paul was not long in getting to work. His first duty came in meeting with the Jeru´salem elders along with James, to give a report of what had happened in his teaching and work.
It seems that many Jews had heard false reports of what Paul had done. They had accused him of preaching against circumcision and against Moses. But it is good to notice that the elders and James did not believe these false reports, but rejoiced in the way that Paul had reached many Jews and Gentiles with the gospel. However, they still had the problem with the other Jews whom Paul would shortly meet.
As Paul told these men of his success, he must have been very humble. He never lost sight throughout his ministry of the help of God. Paul felt that he was a human instrument in the hands of God. If we feel any less in our lives, we will fail as Christians.
Some years before Lincoln was elected president he declared that it would require a very great man to lead the nation through the crisis which he saw approaching. When he had become president, the man to whom he had made this remark wrote reminding him of it and asking if he thought he was such a great man.
He replied, “I am not such a man, but I have faith that God can make me to be such a man.”
We may not in ourselves be equal to the duties that come to us, but we are not to undertake them in our own strength. With God’s help we become better, and indeed greater.
The accusations were simply misunderstandings of Paul’s message. He was not against circumcision since he had insisted that Timothy be circumcised on a previous journey. He had merely shown that the law had been fulfilled and that Christ was the answer to all spiritual needs.
In
teaching that the law was fulfilled in Christ, he was not condemning the law.
There were some things of the law that Paul could do without violating the laws
of Christianity. In fact, Paul wrote to the Corinthians: “And to the Jews I
became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to those who are under the law, as
under the law, that I might gain those who are under the law; to those who are
without law, as without law, (not being without law to God, but under the law
to Christ), that I might gain those who are without law. To the weak I became
as weak, that I might gain the weak; I have become all things to all men, that
I might by all means save some. And this I do for the gospel’s sake, that I may
be partaker of it with you” (1 Corinthians 9:20-23).
Paul would not do anything to compromise truth, but when it came to those matters that helped the Jews get closer to the gospel, he was happy to do them.
This great man of God was ready (day and night) to serve his fellowman with the gospel. It is true that thousands rejected him, but such was not the case because Paul was not available. He would go the extra mile and even more to help the lost fulfill their greatest need—salvation!
An Eastern king devised a way to even the poorest. He hung in his bed–chamber a golden bell. To the bell was attached a golden cord which was let outside the wall of the castle until it reached the ground. When a poor man in the kingdom had any wrong for which he sought redress, he did not need to go to any of the officials, and perhaps bribe them, in order to reach the king’s ear. He could pull the golden cord, and the bell in the royal chamber told of a needy one outside. Thus all had access to the king. —World.
Regardless of Paul’s innocence, the problem still had to be faced concerning the Jews. The elders decided that if Paul would have a part in the Jewish purification and join himself to four men who were in the process at that time and pay their charges, that maybe the Jews would drop the false reports. This Paul did, but such did not stop the trouble!
These Jews stirred up the people and got Paul out of the temple closing the doors behind him. Their aim was to kill him and they would have succeeded if the chief captain had not sent soldiers and centurions to stop the beating.
Paul was bound with two chains and the captain thought he would learn about the trouble. However, some cried one thing and others something else, so the captain finally commanded Paul to be brought into the barracks. While on the steps of the barracks, Paul asked permission to speak. After the chief captain learned that he was a Jew of Tar´sus, permission was granted and Paul began his defense.
This great spokesman for the Lord is now facing serious problems. The Jews have turned against him and the Roman authorities have put him in chains, and yet, he requested permission to speak.
The world wants men—large–hearted, manly men;
Men who shall join its chorus and prolong
The Psalm of labor and the Psalm of love.
The age wants heros—heros who shall dare
To struggle in the solid ranks of truth:
To blot the error of oppression out,
And lead a universal freedom in.
This great apostle began by telling of his birth and education at the feet of Gama´liel. He let them know that he taught the law in its purity and even persecuted Christians. It was a matter of record that he received letters to go to Damas´cus to persecute.
Next he told of his experience on the road to Damas´cus and how he was shown that he was fighting God. After baptism, Paul told how he had to leave Jeru´salem because they would not receive his message. He even reminded them of how he feared after becoming a Christian due to the fact that he had even helped with the stoning of Ste´phen. However, God gave him assurance and sent him away to the Gentiles.
As Paul unfolded the scenes of his life, it should have been obvious that God had made the design. Even though certain parts of his life were marked with sin and rebellion, the final design came forth from God.
If you look on the wrong or back side of a piece of tapestry, while it is being woven, it seems all wrong. There is apparently no plan to the work. All is confusion. Yet the weaver works according to a pattern that is plain to him, and at the end the beauty of it is revealed. So God works, as it were, from behind the scenes; we do not see the pattern in His mind. But we are foolish if we conclude there is no plan in His work. In due time all its beauty will be seen.
This ended the silence. They had heard all they wanted to hear and began crying against him. Like animals, they began throwing dust into the air and the chief captain saw that Paul must be brought into the barracks. The captain seemed to feel that a good beating would bring forth some real facts, but this was decided against when it was learned that Paul was a free born Roman. This loosed the chains, but Paul still had to be brought before the chief priest and their council.
You would think that these evil men had no conscience! They were so filled with envy and hatred that they felt no remorse. When one gets caught up in sin, this can happen; therefore, it is important to keep our conscience trained for God.
But a time came when my spirit
Grew weary of its pace
And I cried, “Come back, my conscience,
For I long to see thy face!”
But conscience cried, “I cannot;
Remorse sits in my place.
—Paul L. Dunbar
These men were evidently against Paul because they took offense at his first statement. When he said that he had lived in all good conscience before God until this day, a high priest commanded that he be slapped. Then Paul rebuked him sharply not knowing he was a high priest. However, after learning this fact, he apologized and continued speaking.
It was not long though, before Paul realized that the effort was futile and his only way out was to turn the Pharisees against the Sadducees. This was done and the captain again had to rescue Paul from an angry mob lest he be torn apart.
From a human standpoint, it may seem that Paul lost the battle, but not so! Yes, he had failed to convince these Jews, but he had handled the situation well, and in the overall picture he was the winner.
Do you remember the time I lost the race I’d been so sure of?” said Dick to Bob.
“I felt just as you do—disgusted—ready to throw the whole thing over. It was Professor Dana who saved me. He came up and shook hands and congratulated me. I can remember his words now.
“Field,” he said, “you put up a good race, and next time you’ll win; but you have won a bigger victory today, in proving yourself a good loser. I’m proud of you.”
It may have been that Paul was feeling low, but God came to him in the night and cheered him and promised that he would have an opportunity to preach also in Rome. Forty men took an oath that they would neither eat nor drink until Paul was dead. They even plotted a plan to get him, but Paul’s nephew learned of this and informed Paul.
After the message reached the chief captain, he decided to use two centurions with 200 soldiers, 70 horsemen, and 200 spearmen to move Paul to Cæsare´a where he would be under Fe´lix the governor. Thus, at 9:00 p.m. Paul was placed on a beast and sent to Fe´lix along with a letter from the chief captain. It merely explained what had happened and turned the matter over to Fe´lix.
Just as the prophet had said, Paul went to Jeru´salem and was bound, but please remember that Paul, at this point, was not finished. His journey was slowed down, but these last few miles were important as he prepared for his fourth and final journey to Rome.
Since Paul had the assurance of his Father in heaven, he could face any trials before him. Even though it seemed that the odds were against him, nothing could overcome the power of his heavenly Father.
Two men were talking by the gate when two lads returning from school drew near. One of the men suggested an experiment. He lifted one of the boys, his own son, to the top of a post some six feet from the ground, and stepping back two paces, held out his arms and asked the lad to leap. Without fear and without harm he jumped into his father’s arms.
The second boy was lifted upon the post, and although he had the advantage of the other’s example, he could not be persuaded to make the trial. The boys were equally courageous, but one had the added confidence of knowing he was leaping into his own father’s arms.
Cæsare´a (Acts 23:31-35; 24; 25; 26)
After Paul had arrived in Cæsare´a and Fe´lix learned that he was from Cilic´ia, he would not do a thing until he talked to Paul’s accusers. So Paul was kept in Her´od’s Judgment Hall until Anani´as the high priest, the elders, and a certain orator named Tertul´lus arrived. It seems that they brought this orator as a lawyer to plead their case.
When the case was called, Tertul´lus began to spin a case of fancy words and false accusations against Paul, but it is interesting to note that Paul used equal oratory to deny everything he said. Paul admitted being a follower of Christ and bringing alms to his nation. He let them know that he even went through purification and admitted that he preached about the resurrection of the dead.
Even though all effort was made to bring the smartest to speak against Paul, this apostle will win because he has the Lord and truth on his side. All the lies in the world cannot compare to truth. When such is spoken with honesty and sincerity, those who will open their eyes can see pure religion.
There is a legend in the Orient that tells of a marvelous tree. On it there grew apples of gold and bells of silver. When a breeze arose and moved the branches a shower of these apples fell and the bells rang sweetly. Pure religion makes the righteous bear golden fruits, and the harvesting is accomplished by great joy.
Fe´lix put these men off and later sent for a private conference with Paul. He put him with a centurion and commanded that he be permitted to see friends and let them minister to him.
Paul’s preaching even made Fe´lix fear and tremble, but Fe´lix made the mistake of putting off obedience. He thought also that some would pay money to release Paul, but this did not happen. Paul remained under Fe´lix for two years until Fes´tus took over, but Fe´lix left Paul bound because he wanted to show the people a favor.
Paul’s experience with Felix must have been disappointing, but he knew that the Lord Jesus whom he served had experienced no failures. When the word is preached, many hearts will reject it, but we must not grow weary in sowing the seed. In the midst of such rejection, again Paul could lean heavily on the Lord. With His help, he could do all things.
Put any burden upon me, only sustain me.
Send me anything, only go with me.
Sever any tie but the one that binds me
To thy service and to thy heart.
—Miss Brigham
Shortly after Fes´tus took office, he took a trip up to Jeru´salem. It seems that Paul was a problem to decide his course since he had been imprisoned so long. The Jews were still hating him and regained new hope that Fes´tus might bring him back to Jeru´salem for them to kill. However, again they received a surprise when he informed them that they would have to go to Cæsare´a to accuse him.
Ten
days later Fes´tus returned to sit on the judgment seat and ordered Paul before
him. Once again the Jews brought forth a long list of lies which they could not
prove. Fes´tus decided to ask Paul to return to Jeru´salem to please the Jews.
Paul, however, informed him that he want to stand in judgment before Cæsar
since he had not wronged the Jews. After conferring with the council, Fes´tus
said, “You have appealed to Cæsar? To Cæsar you shall go!” (Acts 25:12).
This decision was a wise one on Paul’s part. The Jews were planning his death, but this small decision turned the tide. The rest of Paul’s life will be related to this decision. Those who overlook the small things in life often fail in life.
Frederick the Great, king of Prussia, was saved from death by a spider, according to a story people tell. They say that the king was at luncheon and was about to drink some chocolate when a spider dropped from the ceiling into the cup. The king sent for another cup and the attendant returned immediately to say that the cook had shot himself. It was afterward found that the cook had poisoned the chocolate and that when the second cup had been sent for, he believed that his act had been found out.” —Argus.
Be
assured that the Lord will make sure that Paul goes to Rome (Acts 27:24).
Before King Agrip´pa (Acts 26:1-32)
The Jews had lost the battle, and they must have returned to Jeru´salem sad because they wanted Paul dead.
After a few days, Fes´tus had two honored guests—King Agrip´pa and Berni´ce. It wasn’t long until they began to talk shop and Fes´tus wanted King Agrip´pa to know of his most difficult case. Step by step he revealed to him what had happened. The king’s curiosity became so aroused that he asked to see the prisoner.
It was arranged on the following day, and Paul was brought in before these dignitaries. Fes´tus opened the examination by declaring that this prisoner was to be sent to Cæ´sar, but that he didn’t know what to write in a letter that must accompany him. Then Fes´tus expressed the hope that King Agrip´pa could help him.
Once again Paul must be paraded before those of high office who are so difficult to reach. It must have been disturbing for him to pour his heart out even in the face of failure. Please remember, this is God’s way of making Paul stronger as His servant. Yes, the going was rough, but Paul came forth every time as true and strong as steel.
One time a wicked man said to a converted blacksmith: “Why is it you have so much trouble? I thought a Christian did not have any trials or troubles.”
The blacksmith replied: “Do you see this piece of iron? It is for the springs of a carriage. I have been ‘tempering’ it for some time. To do this I heat it red–hot, and then plunge it into a tub of ice–cold water. This I do many times. If I find it taking ‘temper,’ I heat and hammer it unmercifully. In getting the right piece of Iron I found several that were too brittle. So I threw them in the scrap–pile. Those scraps are worth only a few cents a pound: this carriage spring is very valuable.”
Paul’s Defense Before Agrip´pa (Acts
26:2-29)
It seems that Paul was at his best as he revealed truth from the bottom of his heart in a most sincere manner. Word by word he wove the pattern of his live, conversion, and imprisonment. In fact, Paul became so carried away in his speaking that Fes´tus accused him of being mad (Acts 26:24). However, Paul assured him that he was not mad.
Then turning to the king he said, “Do you believe the prophets? I know that you believe” (vs. 27). Then came the famous words from the King: “You almost persuade me to become a Christian” (vs. 28). To Paul, as is true today, almost was but to fail!
After Paul left the assembly, the king said that this man might have been set at liberty, if he had not appealed to Cæ´sar. Truly by the help of God, Paul was on this occasion at his best.
Why did Paul try so hard to teach this man, and why was he so disappointed when Agrip´pa was only, “almost persuaded?” Because Paul had found a man lost eternally, had offered him life, and it had been refused. This describes millions today who are dying without Christ who will not receive life.
A traveler is out upon a journey across a wide waste of desert. Days have passed by, and he is out of both water and food. Much of the journey lies yet before him. The parching sun is overhead and burning sands beneath his feet. At night he finds no place of lodgment but in the desert. He is thirsty, fainting, losing hope.
All of a sudden there runs to him a kind friend to his rescue, with all needed supplies, and all given in great abundance free. Will he accept them? He surely will. You are that traveler. You are on the way to eternity. Unless you are succored you will die, for you are empty–handed. Jesus runs to meet you with all the riches of His grace. Will you eat and live? I hope you will.
This great sermon brought to an end Paul’s third missionary journey. Just like the others, it had been rich with experiences of suffering and success. He was now ready to begin his fourth and last journey that would carry him to Rome where he would ultimately meet his death.
It is impossible to study these journeys without seeing God by Paul’s side every step of the way. Be also assured that God will travel with him on his long dangerous voyage to Rome.
As Paul looked back over this third journey, he could not possibly know how much good had been accomplished. His present confinement, along with his failure to see the future, may have discouraged him since he was human. However, God knew and time would reveal the results.
Fanny Crosby, the blind hymn writer, was once speaking in one of the missions in New York City. Suddenly she stopped and said, “I wonder if there is not some wandering boy in this audience this evening that would have the courage to step out and come by my side so that I might put my arms around him and kiss him for his mother.
There was a hush upon the audience; then a boy from a rear seat started and came to the platform, and, with her arms about him and her lips against his cheek, for his mother’s sake, Fanny Crosby said, “Oh, my friends, let us rescue the perishing. From this meeting she went to her home and, sitting in her room, wrote: “Rescue The Perishing,” a hymn which has been sung around the world.
Some years ago she spoke in St. Louis at a great meeting and related the incident. Before she had finished a man sprang to his feet and said, “Miss Crosby, listen to me. I am a prosperous merchant in this city, a husband and a father, a Christian, and an officer in the church. I was the boy around whom you threw your arms.”