Acts 20:24
French (La Bible expliquée)
Mais ma propre vie ne compte pas à mes yeux; ce qui m'importe, c'est d'aller jusqu'au bout de ma mission et d'achever la tâche que m'a confiée le Seigneur Jésus: proclamer la Bonne Nouvelle de la grâce de Dieu. Des escales marquantes, comme celle de Milet, mettent en évidence les enjeux de ce voyage. Paul expose, en trois points, ses dernières recommandations à l'Église d'Éphèse qu'il a fondée. Paul a servi efficacement la parole du Seigneur à Éphèse: la présence des anciens devant lui en est la preuve. Mais ce n'est qu'une étape dans une course dirigée par le Saint-Esprit. Elle le mène à Jérusalem, vers un destin semblable à celui de Jésus. La séparation d'avec Paul transfère aux anciens la responsabilité du troupeau qu'ils doivent protéger des attaques de loups redoutables que sont les faux prophètes qui rôdent alentour (v. 29). L'avenir est confié à Dieu et mis sous le signe d'une parole de Jésus sur le don (v. 35), qui n'est pas citée dans les évangiles; elle renforce le sens de la mise en pratique de l'enseignement de Jésus. Des adieux émouvants mettent fin à l'escale.
What Does This Mean?
Paul says that nothing can stop him from completing his mission to spread the good news of Jesus' love and grace. He is willing to give up anything, even his life, to finish what he was called to do.
Explained for Children
Imagine you were given a really important job by your favorite superhero to tell everyone about their amazing powers. Paul feels like that; he wants to tell everyone about Jesus' superpowers of love and grace, no matter what happens!
Historical Background
The book of Acts was written by Luke, one of Paul's companions, around the mid-first century AD. This verse is part of a speech given by Paul during his final journey to Jerusalem, addressing followers in Ephesus.
Living It Out Today
A modern scenario could involve someone who dedicates their career to helping others, even if it means taking lower pay or risking personal safety, much like Paul was willing to risk everything for his mission.
Topics
missionsacrificeperseverancegracetestimonyministry
Related Verses
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Paul consider his mission so important?
Paul saw the spread of Jesus' message as crucial for people's salvation and spiritual growth, believing it was God's will for him to share this message widely.
What does 'testify the gospel of grace' mean?
Paul used this phrase to express his commitment to spreading the message of Jesus’ grace.
How does Paul's statement relate to personal sacrifice?
It demonstrates the importance of putting God’s work before personal gain.
Can you provide an example of how someone might apply this verse today?
An individual might use their career to spread awareness about important causes.