In chapter 30 of The Story we get a glimpse of the final days of Paul's ministry. We see in him a man with unwavering commitment to Jesus and His Gospel. To the Elders from a town called Ephesus, close friends and partners in the Gospel, Paul acknowledges that the Holy Spirit has prepared him for the imprisonment and hardships coming his way. He boldly declares, “I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me--the task of testifying to the good news of God's grace.” While Paul's story is inspiring, it is also sobering. Who among us is prepared to go through the hardships Paul endured for the sake his knowing and sharing Christ? Then again, it is only through the grace of God and power of the Spirit that Paul is able to stand with such conviction for Christ. We live in the same grace and power, with lives shaped by the same “Good News” message and Word of God. We commit ourselves to Him who alone is able to guard us and make us strong, and we trust Him as we are given courage to continue in the Mission of God in Christ Jesus.
Winter & Spring 2015 -- “The Story” is an abridged, chronological version of the Bible laid out in the format of a novel. It can help people get a better sense of the Bible as one continuous narrative of God’s love, centering ultimately on the redemption He has given through His Son. To listen to sermons from chapters 1-11, click here.
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