Daily Devotional for Wednesday, March 29th

The Decision of Paul

“So he sent into Macedonia two of them that ministered unto him, Timotheus and Erastus; but he himself stayed in Asia for a season,” Acts 19:22.

Amazing and exciting things were happening in Ephesus. The Lord worked miracles through Paul, the name of Jesus was magnified, many believed and confessed, many who practiced “curious arts” (verse 19) burned their spell books, and the Word of God grew mightily. Verse 10 states, “All they which dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks.” The power of God was moving!
“After these things were ended” (verse 21) indicates it was time to move on. The Holy Spirit was guiding Paul’s steps. The gospel had a foothold in Asia, so he decided to head for Jerusalem and then Rome. He would pass through Macedonia and Achaia first and then continue on.
With this transition in mind, he sent his two colleagues, Timothy and Erastus, on ahead to Macedonia. Paul’s offering for the believers in Jerusalem was almost complete, and passing back through Macedonia and Achaia would allow those churches to add their final contributions. He sent Timothy and Erastus to encourage the church plants and help them collect their offerings.
Paul, himself, stayed in Asia for a season. His reasoning was probably manifold. His staying back provided opportunities for Timothy and Erastus to serve and gain experience. In mentoring young people, this is important. They need times of independent tasks to build confidence and reliance on the Lord and to build people’s confidence in them. Paul was ready to go to Jerusalem, trying to make it by the Feast of Pentecost (Acts 20:16), so having Timothy and Erastus do some of the needed leg work saved time. Although Paul had travel companions and would not be alone, after two and a half years in Ephesus, he may have wanted some time to reflect on all God had done and make a proper goodbye.

THOUGHT: Praise the Lord the Holy Spirit guides us through every season of life.

Kelli Reynolds