Acts 20:24
But these things don’t count; nor do I hold my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to fully testify to the Good News of the grace of God.
Acts 20:24 is part of the apostle St.Paul's farewell address to the elders of the church in Ephesus. To understand the context of this verse, we need to look at the broader passage in Acts 20:17-38.
In this passage, St.Paul has traveled to the city of Miletus, and he sends for the elders of the Ephesian church to meet him there. St.Paul knows that he will not see them again, and he is addressing them to impart important instructions and encouragement. Here's a breakdown of the context:
St.Paul's Ministry and Sacrifices: St.Paul begins by reminding the elders of his own ministry among them. He mentions how he served the Lord with humility, tears, and trials, not hesitating to proclaim the Gospel of God's grace (Acts 20:18-19).
Foreknowledge of Imprisonment: St.Paul then speaks about how he was constrained by the Holy Spirit to go to Jerusalem, even though he knew that chains and hardships awaited him there (Acts 20:22-23). He understands that he is facing persecution and imprisonment.
The Verse in Question (Acts 20:24): In Acts 20:24, St.Paul expresses his deep commitment to his mission and the Gospel. He is saying that his own life and personal well-being are not of primary importance to him. Instead, what matters most to him is finishing his race (his mission and ministry) with joy. His mission is to testify to the Good News of the grace of God. St.Paul's focus is on fulfilling the purpose God has given him, even in the face of personal sacrifice and danger.
Final Words of Encouragement: Following this statement, St.Paul continues to exhort the elders to watch over the flock and to be shepherds of the church of God. He warns them of potential dangers and false teachers who may arise among them (Acts 20:28-31).
Farewell and Prayer: St.Paul concludes his address with prayer and a farewell, embracing and weeping with the elders. They are deeply moved by his words and his impending departure (Acts 20:36-38).
In Acts 20:24, St.Paul is essentially emphasizing that he is willing to endure whatever hardships or risks are necessary to fulfill his calling to preach the Gospel and testify to God's grace. His primary concern is not his own comfort or safety but the faithful completion of the mission entrusted to him by the Lord Jesus. This verse reflects St.Paul's unwavering dedication to his ministry and his deep passion for sharing the message of God's grace with others, regardless of the personal sacrifices involved.
