Bound in the Spirit

Paul in this passage is finishing his third missionary trip and is heading to Jerusalem where he knows that chains and suffering await him. He sends for the leaders in Ephesus to meet him in Miletus to show them the gravity of the time, and the burden he has for the Gospel to be proclaimed. He had seen great works of God when he was in Ephesus, preaching the Gospel to a people who worshipped mythical gods in their large temple of Diana. He did not underestimate the power of the Gospel though and plainly taught the Gospel of repentance towards God and faith towards Jesus Christ. This is what our generation needs too--the simple Gospel, not watered down or new strange teachings. Paul was urged and compelled by the Holy Spirit to fulfill his calling. Does the love of Christ compel you forward in your vision? This is the only way to go forward, dying to self, going through tribulations. We will utterly fail if the love of Christ doesn’t compel us. We are not called to the American Dream--we are called to a race, a ministry, to reach this generation with the Word of God. God will provide all we have need of if we seek first Him and His Kingdom. In the face of chains, we cannot be moved. We must go on fighting the good fight with joy. We must be on guard against the dangers of being drawn away, taking heed of ourselves first, and then our brothers and sisters. False teachers can arise from outside the church, but as well as within the church. They will proclaim doctrines to divide and distract the flock. Therefore, watch against evil and keep in mind the Gospel of the Lord Jesus. Forgetfulness and not watching will lead to apostasy. Faithfully proclaim and defend the Gospel! Click here to listen: Bound in the Spirit