APOSTOLIC PATIENCE!

Acts 20:24-  But none of these things move, nor do I count my life dear unto myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I have received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.

The apostle Paul had the “Spirit prompting” that when He came to Ephesus he was nearing the end of His course and race that the Lord had appointed him to.  On his way to Jerusalem, he wanted to encourage the elders at Ephesus that although bonds and afflictions awaited him there, He knew he must go to Jersualem.  He was determined to keep the faith to the end!

Although the Spirit was bearing witness to his spirit, He did not fully understand what would be happening, but he knew it must come to pass.  He had “uncertain certainty”, in that although hesitant at times, he must press on.  He also had “predictable resistance”, or opposition that He knew he would face.  He had told the Corinthians –  For a great and effectual door has opened unto me, and there are many adversaries (those who oppose me).  I. Co. 16:9

Finally, He also knew that He had “Uncommon clarity!”  He knew by the grace of God that He would finish His race with joy, and nothing would hinder him in doing so.  Not hindrances, not discouragement, not people, not anything could separate him from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus!  He knew what He knew, because He said, “I AM WHAT I AM, BY THE GRACE OF GOD…( I. Co. 15:10)

2 Co. 12:12-  TRULY THE SIGNS OF AN APOSTLE WERE ACCOMPLISHED AMONG YOU WITH ALL WITH ALL PATIENCE (perseverance), in signs and wonders, and mighty deeds.