Acts 20:13-16

Summary retelling of Acts 20:13-16

We find out that Paul’s disciples got to a boat and sailed south down the coast of Asia Minor.  However, Paul decided to go by land.  They meet up in the town of Assos.  They go through several more coastal towns on their way to get back home.  Paul didn’t stop in Ephesus, however, because he was hoping to be back in Jerusalem for Pentecost (remember that he was in Philippi for Passover).  Instead he stops at Miletus, which is the coastal port for Ephesus.

Thoughts for Today

First Thought:

We don’t know why Paul chooses to go by land.  Perhaps Paul wanted to do some ministry – although he seems to be in a bit of a hurry.  There are some who think that Paul may have been sick and hoping that traveling by land would give him some time to heal before getting on water.  We shouldn’t be worried about it, though.  The reality is that Paul and his disciples can be separated for a time and things are okay.  We all have work to do; sometimes that work takes us away from those people we love.

Do you ever struggle with being away from those you love?  How can knowing that we are following God’s will help ease the pain?

Second Thought:

Paul seems singularly focused on being in Jerusalem by Pentecost.  Remember that at this time in the church there were two big celebrations: Passover (which eventually turns into Easter) and Pentecost (which is when the Holy Spirit came and dwelled among anyone who believes).  Paul had spent Passover in Philippi among people with whom he was quite spiritually connected.  Now Paul seeks to be in Jerusalem for Pentecost – a great place to remember what happened in the place where it happened.

Although I occasionally speak against tradition, how can we make tradition be meaningful?  Why is it important to be among spiritual people or in spiritual places if we can?  Why should we be careful to have meaningful traditions while not being afraid to put aside non-spiritual traditions?

Passage for Tomorrow: Acts 20:17-24