What kind of thinking makes a person dedicate themselves to the Lord? The Bible gives an example in the writings of Paul.
"However, 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." Acts 20:24.
I CONSIDER MY LIFE WORTH NOTHING
This is humility not self-pity or that he has disdained life, but he is saying that he values nothing above the task God has given him. It is a comparison contrast statement- that life did not compare to the task of proclaiming the Good News. Sharing the Gospel was more precious to him than life.
ONLY AIM
An aim is a purposeful focus. He resolved to do what God assigned for him to do. He knew he would face persecution, troubles, hardship and affliction, yet he continued his aim.
It was his only aim- he had no other, living for God was not a weekend hobby it was his sole purpose, he had no other interest or occupation.
FINISH THE RACE
When he considered the end of his life he saw his death as a conclusion of a task God has entrusted to him. He had a sense of urgency, passion, and commitment. He was going to go all the way as long as he was able. There is no idea of a pause on the way to vacation or ending in a soft retirement.
TESTIFY
To testify is to tell what you know. Paul knew God. He met Jesus on the road to Damascus and through him found the Gospel. Paul spoke of these things wherever he had the opportunity and even when it was inconvenient.
GOOD NEWS
The good news is forgiveness through the blood of Jesus' sacrifice for mankind's sin, and he gives fellowship with the Father; not because mankind did deserve it but because God is gracious and gives free salvation to any who come.
The Gospel is too good to not share.
The Apostle's statements were intelligent and thought out. He considered the gospel and came to the conclusion that he would live full throttle for God. May we each consider the facts of God's grace and come to the same conclusion.
"However, 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." Acts 20:24.
I CONSIDER MY LIFE WORTH NOTHING
This is humility not self-pity or that he has disdained life, but he is saying that he values nothing above the task God has given him. It is a comparison contrast statement- that life did not compare to the task of proclaiming the Good News. Sharing the Gospel was more precious to him than life.
ONLY AIM
An aim is a purposeful focus. He resolved to do what God assigned for him to do. He knew he would face persecution, troubles, hardship and affliction, yet he continued his aim.
It was his only aim- he had no other, living for God was not a weekend hobby it was his sole purpose, he had no other interest or occupation.
FINISH THE RACE
When he considered the end of his life he saw his death as a conclusion of a task God has entrusted to him. He had a sense of urgency, passion, and commitment. He was going to go all the way as long as he was able. There is no idea of a pause on the way to vacation or ending in a soft retirement.
TESTIFY
To testify is to tell what you know. Paul knew God. He met Jesus on the road to Damascus and through him found the Gospel. Paul spoke of these things wherever he had the opportunity and even when it was inconvenient.
GOOD NEWS
The good news is forgiveness through the blood of Jesus' sacrifice for mankind's sin, and he gives fellowship with the Father; not because mankind did deserve it but because God is gracious and gives free salvation to any who come.
The Gospel is too good to not share.
The Apostle's statements were intelligent and thought out. He considered the gospel and came to the conclusion that he would live full throttle for God. May we each consider the facts of God's grace and come to the same conclusion.
(c)Adron Dozat 12/21/14
