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Acts 20:24
Verse
Context
Paul’s Farewell to the Ephesians
23I only know that in town after town the Holy Spirit warns me that chains and afflictions await me.24But I consider my life of no value to me, if only I may finish my course and complete the ministry I have received from the Lord Jesus—the ministry of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
None of these things move me - Ουδενος λογον ποιουμαι; I consider them as nothing; I value them not a straw; they weigh not with me. Neither count I my life dear - I am not my own; my life and being are the Lord's; he requires me to employ them in his service; I act under his direction, and am not anxious about the issue. Finish my course with joy - Τον δρομον μου, My ministerial function. We have already met with this word in application to the same subject, Act 13:25, where see the note. And the apostle here adds, by way of explanation, και την διακονιαν, even that ministry which I have received of the Lord. The words μετα χαρας, with joy, are omitted by ABD, some others; the Syriac, Erpen, Coptic, Sahidic, Ethiopic, Vulgate, and some of the fathers. If we consider them as genuine they may imply thus much: that the apostle wished to fulfill his ministry in such a way as might meet with the Divine approbation; for nothing could give him joy that did not please and glorify God. To testify - Διαμαρτυρασθαι, Earnestly, solemnly, and strenuously to assert, vindicate, and prove the Gospel of the grace of God, not only to be in itself what it professes to be, but to be also the power of God for salvation to every one that believes.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
But none of these things move me, neither, &c.--In this noble expression of absolute dedication to the service of Christ and preparedness for the worst that could befall him in such a cause, note (1) his jealousy for the peculiar character of his mission, as immediately from Christ Himself on which all the charges against him turned; (2) the burden of that Gospel which he preached--GRACE; it was "the Gospel of the Grace of God."
John Gill Bible Commentary
Wherefore I take you to record this day,.... This is a solemn appeal to the elders of the church at Ephesus, who knew his doctrine and manner of life for a considerable time among them: that I am pure from the blood of all men: or "of you all", as some copies, and the Syriac, Arabic, and Ethiopic versions read; which seems most natural, since they could only bear a testimony for him with respect to themselves, and the people at Ephesus, where he had so behaved both in the faithful discharge of his ministry, and in his exemplary life and conversation; as that the ruin and destruction of no one of them could be laid to his charge, or any one perish for want of knowledge, or through any negligence of his; see Eze 33:6.
Acts 20:24
Paul’s Farewell to the Ephesians
23I only know that in town after town the Holy Spirit warns me that chains and afflictions await me.24But I consider my life of no value to me, if only I may finish my course and complete the ministry I have received from the Lord Jesus—the ministry of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
"Too Intense?" "Radical?"
By Paul Washer10.0K03:56Radio ShowPSA 67:2ISA 64:1HOS 4:6MAT 16:24ACT 20:242TI 1:71PE 1:15In this sermon, the speaker passionately shares his personal experiences of sacrifice and persecution for his faith in Jesus Christ. He recounts witnessing people dying and a young boy being shot for crying out in the name of Jesus. The speaker emphasizes the need for true holiness and godliness among believers, calling for a turning away from sin and a wholehearted pursuit of God. He challenges the audience to prioritize the proclamation of the gospel and the advancement of God's kingdom, even if it means risking their lives. The speaker also highlights the importance of knowing and living according to the Word of God.
How to Get on Fire for God
By Ray Comfort8.3K48:40ZealMAT 10:16MRK 16:15ACT 20:21ACT 20:24ROM 15:13EPH 6:15HEB 4:15In this sermon, the preacher discusses three keys to getting on fire for God. The first key is faith, which is described as believing in the promises of God and finding joy and peace through the power of the Holy Ghost. The second key is love for God, which motivates believers to put aside their fears and be faithful witnesses. The third key is compassion, as the preacher emphasizes the importance of recognizing the day of judgment and the need to show compassion towards others. The sermon also mentions the use of anecdotes and humor as effective tools in keeping the audience engaged.
Witness of the Spirit - Part 2
By Leonard Ravenhill5.1K1:03:18Witness Of The SpiritMAT 5:1JHN 4:14ACT 20:24ROM 8:1ROM 8:312CO 4:18HEB 11:1In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the loss of appreciation for the beauty and majesty of the gospel among preachers today. He shares a criticism from a book review that resonated with him, emphasizing the need to regain a deep understanding of the gospel's significance. The preacher then uses biblical examples, such as the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the fiery furnace, and Joseph's journey from being sold into slavery to becoming a ruler in Egypt, to illustrate the transformative power of going through trials and hardships. He encourages listeners to embrace difficult situations, as they can lead to spiritual growth and maturity.
911 Tradegy
By K.P. Yohannan4.9K49:56TradegyMAT 10:23LUK 14:26ACT 20:24ROM 12:21CO 2:4PHP 3:102TI 2:3In this sermon, the speaker reflects on his own life and ministry, realizing that he has become complacent and lacking in passion for sharing the gospel. He is convicted by the fact that thousands of people die every day without hearing about Jesus. He acknowledges that he needs a change of heart and asks God to transform him. The sermon also shares a powerful story of a young brother who risks his life to preach the gospel in a dangerous place, only to be met with opposition and threats. However, through his calm and peaceful response, he eventually gains the respect and curiosity of the village chief, who invites him to his house to learn more about his beliefs.
The Secret of a Great Life
By Warren Wiersbe4.9K32:28MAT 6:33ACT 20:24ACT 20:35In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the joy and fulfillment that comes from giving. He highlights the selfless acts of missionaries and members of the church who dedicate their lives to giving to others. The speaker emphasizes the principle of giving and quotes the apostle Paul, who lived by this principle. He acknowledges that giving can be challenging and may not always be appreciated, but encourages listeners to continue giving with faith. The sermon concludes with a personal anecdote about the speaker's own realization of the importance of staying committed to the ministry and not being moved by discouragement.
(Sermon Preparation) Lecture 07
By Alan Redpath4.6K37:46Sermon PreparationLUK 14:26ACT 20:20ACT 20:242CO 12:14COL 3:8In the video, the preacher introduces fourteen principles for Christian living. He challenges the audience to quickly find Bible verses to support each principle. The principles include the importance of repentance, the need for discipleship and lordship in salvation, and the significance of putting off the old life and putting on the new. The preacher emphasizes that these principles are often overlooked and need to be emphasized in ministry.
To Live Is Christ - Full Length
By K.P. Yohannan4.6K46:17Jesus ChristMAT 6:33MAT 20:28MRK 10:45LUK 19:10ACT 20:24ROM 12:21JN 3:16In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal encounter with a frail and humble village woman who radiated the love of Jesus. The woman, who had six sons, revealed to the speaker that she was on earth for a purpose - to fulfill her father's plan. The speaker then recounts a story of a young Christian who questioned why those who knew the Bible so well still lived lives filled with strife and worldly desires. The Lord's response was that they spent time with the Bible but lacked true transformation. The speaker also highlights the urgency of reaching the lost and emphasizes the need for families to come together and discuss the plight of those suffering in the world. The sermon concludes with a story of two brothers who preached the gospel to Muslims and were initially met with kindness, but the true intentions of the men were not as they seemed.
(Godly Home) Part 4 - a Vision That Motivates
By Denny Kenaston4.3K40:00Godly Home SeriesGEN 18:19PRO 29:18MAT 6:33ACT 20:24EPH 3:20COL 1:29HEB 11:6In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a vision that sustains and motivates us in our spiritual journey. He highlights the encouraging words found in Ephesians 3:20, which remind us that God is full of power and able to do exceedingly, abundantly above all that we ask or think. The speaker urges listeners to personally experience this power working within them, just as Paul did, so that they can reach their full potential. He also discusses the consequences of not having a spiritual vision, which can lead to a cooling of the heart, a distancing from God, and a degeneration of society. The speaker encourages listeners to pass on their spiritual vision to future generations, as seen in the example of godly fathers in Israel.
Religion or Devotion?
By David Platt3.9K04:24MAT 16:24MAT 28:19MRK 8:35ACT 20:24JAS 1:27This sermon challenges believers to choose between dying in religious formalism and wasted opportunities or dying in devoted service to God's mission. It highlights the stark contrast between the suffering and spiritual need in the world, especially in nations like Pakistan, Indonesia, and India, and the complacency and lack of risk-taking in many churches. The speaker urges a radical commitment to the Great Commission, risking everything for the sake of those who have not heard the name of Jesus and for the lost in our communities.
(Titus - Part 25): The Christian and Good Works I
By A.W. Tozer3.7K38:32TitusMAT 6:33LUK 18:1JHN 14:2ACT 20:241TI 1:152TI 4:7TIT 3:8In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of a faithful saying, which is a phrase often used by Paul in his writings. There is some debate among commentators about whether Paul meant the preceding or following statements to be the faithful saying. The preacher emphasizes the importance of believers being diligent in maintaining good works and being actively involved in serving God, even if they may not have certain talents like singing. He shares a testimony of a photographer who was converted by listening to a tape recording of one of his sermons.
Must I Live
By Vance Havner3.4K25:25EXO 20:3MAT 10:37LUK 14:26ACT 5:29ACT 20:241CO 2:2REV 12:11In this sermon, the preacher discusses three verses from the Bible that present a challenge to believers. The first verse is from Luke 14:26, where Jesus says that anyone who does not hate their family and even their own life cannot be his disciple. The second verse is from Acts 20:24, where Paul declares that he does not consider his own life dear to himself, but rather focuses on finishing his ministry joyfully. The third verse is from Revelation 12:23, which speaks of overcoming the devil through the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony. The preacher emphasizes the importance of stewardship and recounts the story of his father, a faithful preacher who served God with plain faith. He contrasts the devil's way of valuing life with the example of Jim Elliott, a missionary who willingly gave his life for the sake of the gospel. The preacher concludes by highlighting the significance of serving Christ and glorifying Him, even if it means having nothing in the world's eyes but possessing everything in God's kingdom.
(Through the Bible) Galatians 1-2
By Chuck Smith2.6K1:20:45MAT 20:26ACT 20:24GAL 1:8GAL 1:13GAL 2:16GAL 2:21In this sermon, the speaker recounts the story of Peter's encounter with Cornelius, a Roman centurion. Cornelius had a vision in which an angel instructed him to send for Peter to learn about the way of God. Peter, despite his initial hesitation due to Jewish customs, went with Cornelius' messengers to his house in Caesarea. There, Peter shared the gospel with Cornelius and his friends, and to his surprise, the Holy Spirit fell upon them, indicating that Gentiles could also receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit. The speaker emphasizes the importance of a loving relationship with God through Jesus, rather than a legalistic approach to following rules. He also highlights the need for humility and servanthood in the church, as taught by Jesus.
The Gospel of the Grace of God
By Carter Conlon2.3K47:35Grace Of GodMAT 6:33ACT 7:55ACT 20:20ACT 20:24ACT 22:13HEB 4:12In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the transformative power of the Gospel of the Grace of God. He emphasizes that when someone truly encounters God, they are changed from the inside out. This change is evident in the way they begin to care for others and speak with kindness. The speaker encourages the audience not to be discouraged by the slow progress of change, but to trust that the seed of new life is growing within them. He concludes by leading the audience in a prayer of salvation, acknowledging Jesus as the Son of God and expressing gratitude for forgiveness and a future in heaven.
True Apostolicity - Part 1
By Art Katz2.2K56:44ApostolicEXO 19:6MAT 6:33ACT 20:24ACT 20:27In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of consecration and preparation for an upcoming event. He warns against having a "business as usual" mentality and urges listeners to set aside all things, even legitimate ones, in order to fully prepare for the visitation of God. The speaker also expresses his reluctance towards large gatherings, as he feels it hinders genuine relationships and prevents deeper connections. He concludes by stating that true apostolic authority requires meekness, and that the speaker he encountered did not possess this essential attribute.
To Live Is Christ
By K.P. Yohannan2.2K53:01Jesus ChristMAT 6:33MAT 20:28MRK 10:45LUK 19:10JHN 13:34ACT 20:241TI 6:7In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not seeking approval from others but instead seeking the honor and approval of Jesus. He shares a personal story of his 84-year-old mother's wise words about the temporary nature of this world and the need to focus on eternal matters. The speaker also highlights the urgency of sharing the gospel with those who are lost and in need of forgiveness. He recounts a powerful encounter with a woman who had sacrificed her own child in search of forgiveness, and how he shared the gospel with her, bringing her comfort and assurance of God's forgiveness. The speaker concludes by encouraging listeners to surrender themselves fully to the mission of spreading the gospel and reaching the lost.
High Doctrine
By C.H. Spurgeon1.9K43:32MAT 6:33ACT 20:24ROM 8:282CO 5:18EPH 2:8JAS 1:17REV 1:8The sermon transcript is a summary of the preaching of Reverend C.H. Spurgeon on the topic of salvation being of God's will and not man's free will. He emphasizes that all things, including every mercy and blessing, are entirely from God. The sermon highlights the dedication and sacrifice of missionaries who leave their comforts and face persecution to spread the gospel. Spurgeon concludes by stating that everything good in believers, including their ability to suffer for Christ, is a result of God's work in them.
How Is It That God Desires to Be With Man?
By Bob Jennings1.8K14:042SA 7:12JHN 17:24ACT 20:24PHP 1:21COL 3:111TH 4:13This sermon reflects on the preciousness of Scripture, focusing on John 17 where Jesus expresses His desire for believers to be with Him and behold His glory in Heaven. It emphasizes the joy and completeness of salvation, the hope of being reunited with loved ones in Christ, and the importance of finishing the Christian journey with joy and faith. The sermon also touches on the comfort of knowing that God is sovereign over life and death, and His ability to raise up others for His purposes.
What Is Your Life - Part 8
By Leonard Ravenhill1.7K09:44LUK 9:23JHN 14:27ACT 20:24ROM 6:72TI 4:7This sermon emphasizes the need for believers to move beyond just being saved and living a basic Christian life. It delves into the importance of seeking a deeper spiritual experience, surrendering fully to God, and allowing Him to work in our lives to remove bondage, fear, and weakness. The sermon also highlights the dangers of envy and jealousy in hindering spiritual growth, using biblical examples like Saul and Paul to illustrate the consequences of such attitudes.
Outpouring in Papua New Guinea (Part 1)
By David Sitton1.7K1:00:39RevivalGEN 1:27MAL 1:11MAT 28:19MRK 16:15ACT 17:30ACT 20:24REV 7:9In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the challenges of reaching remote and unreached people groups with the gospel. He describes the difficult journey of missionaries through the jungle, highlighting the geographical remoteness as one of the reasons for the lack of access to these groups. However, he encourages the audience to remember the incredible potential they have as believers, even with their advantages in education, technology, and resources. The speaker defines missions as taking light into darkness and emphasizes the importance of access to reach the billions of people living in unreached people groups around the world.
Grace Walk Experience - Part 3
By Steve McVey1.6K44:55PSA 103:14ACT 20:24ROM 6:61CO 3:171CO 15:101CO 15:582CO 5:17EPH 2:8This sermon emphasizes the importance of understanding our identity in Christ to transform our behavior. It highlights the truth that our actions do not define who we are, but rather knowing who we are in Christ leads to a change in our conduct. The speaker discusses the liberating concept that God's love and grace are not dependent on our actions, but on our identity in Him. The message encourages believers to embrace God's grace and allow it to work in their lives, leading to a transformation that reflects His love and kindness.
The Way to Look at Things
By Jim Cymbala1.5K37:37DiscouragementLUK 18:1ACT 20:242CO 4:162CO 5:71TH 5:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of looking at things from a spiritual perspective rather than focusing on what is seen. He encourages the audience to walk by faith and not by sight, as faith is contrasted with sight. The speaker shares the heartbreak of an apostle or leader who sees some of his people going astray, but remains committed to the work of Christ. He reminds the audience that despite outward troubles, they should not lose heart, as their faith and daily renewal in God will lead to an eternal glory that outweighs any temporary difficulties. The speaker encourages the audience to hold on to Jesus, trust in Him, and not give up, as God can open their eyes to see the invisible and renew their strength every day.
A Living Sacrifice Part Ii
By George Verwer1.4K08:05Living SacrificeGEN 39:71KI 19:11MAT 6:33ACT 20:242CO 12:9PHP 3:13HEB 12:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of complete commitment and total dedication to Jesus Christ. He mentions various examples of individuals who have shown this level of dedication, such as Sadhu Sunni Singh, Whitfield, Terry, and Judson. The speaker encourages the audience to take the word of God more seriously and to surrender their all to Jesus Christ. He also mentions the need for a deeper commitment and acknowledges that it may not happen overnight, but through God's grace, believers can become men and women after God's own heart.
Message 02
By George Verwer1.3K1:01:20MAT 6:33ACT 20:24ACT 20:30In this sermon, the speaker shares his personal testimony and encourages listeners to be encouraged in prayer, vision, and pressing on. He emphasizes the power of the Word of God and how it can be used by ordinary people, even those with a non-Christian background. The speaker also discusses overcoming addiction and the importance of world missions. He references various Bible verses, including Acts 20:30-32 and Acts 20:35, to support his message.
Lifting Up Our Eyes - Part 3
By K.P. Yohannan1.2K07:47PSA 2:8ISA 6:8MAT 9:38MAT 10:28MAT 16:24ACT 20:24PHP 1:21COL 4:21TH 5:17This sermon emphasizes the sacrifices and persecution faced by missionaries in the mission field, highlighting the extreme challenges and dangers they encounter for the sake of spreading the Gospel. It shares stories of missionaries being martyred, families torn apart, and individuals making the ultimate choice to surrender their lives to Christ despite the risks. The message calls for a deep commitment to prayer, intimacy with God, and a global perspective in Christian living, urging believers to dedicate time for fasting, prayer, and intercession for the nations.
True Apostolicity - Part 4
By Art Katz1.2K56:18ApostolicACT 20:16ACT 20:24ACT 20:34In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the life and ministry of the apostle Paul. He highlights Paul's humility, transparency, and simplicity in his approach to ministry. The speaker emphasizes that Paul consistently demonstrated these qualities throughout his life, regardless of the circumstances he faced. The sermon also emphasizes the intense and heartfelt nature of apostolic ministry, encouraging ministers to be vulnerable and deeply connected to those they serve.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
None of these things move me - Ουδενος λογον ποιουμαι; I consider them as nothing; I value them not a straw; they weigh not with me. Neither count I my life dear - I am not my own; my life and being are the Lord's; he requires me to employ them in his service; I act under his direction, and am not anxious about the issue. Finish my course with joy - Τον δρομον μου, My ministerial function. We have already met with this word in application to the same subject, Act 13:25, where see the note. And the apostle here adds, by way of explanation, και την διακονιαν, even that ministry which I have received of the Lord. The words μετα χαρας, with joy, are omitted by ABD, some others; the Syriac, Erpen, Coptic, Sahidic, Ethiopic, Vulgate, and some of the fathers. If we consider them as genuine they may imply thus much: that the apostle wished to fulfill his ministry in such a way as might meet with the Divine approbation; for nothing could give him joy that did not please and glorify God. To testify - Διαμαρτυρασθαι, Earnestly, solemnly, and strenuously to assert, vindicate, and prove the Gospel of the grace of God, not only to be in itself what it professes to be, but to be also the power of God for salvation to every one that believes.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
But none of these things move me, neither, &c.--In this noble expression of absolute dedication to the service of Christ and preparedness for the worst that could befall him in such a cause, note (1) his jealousy for the peculiar character of his mission, as immediately from Christ Himself on which all the charges against him turned; (2) the burden of that Gospel which he preached--GRACE; it was "the Gospel of the Grace of God."
John Gill Bible Commentary
Wherefore I take you to record this day,.... This is a solemn appeal to the elders of the church at Ephesus, who knew his doctrine and manner of life for a considerable time among them: that I am pure from the blood of all men: or "of you all", as some copies, and the Syriac, Arabic, and Ethiopic versions read; which seems most natural, since they could only bear a testimony for him with respect to themselves, and the people at Ephesus, where he had so behaved both in the faithful discharge of his ministry, and in his exemplary life and conversation; as that the ruin and destruction of no one of them could be laid to his charge, or any one perish for want of knowledge, or through any negligence of his; see Eze 33:6.