Gospel Commitment

For my small group this week we are studying Acts 21-22. And one verse that captured my attention is Acts 21:13b, “For I am ready not only to be imprisoned but even to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.” Wow. What commitment! Paul spoke these words after the prophet Agabus shared by means of the Holy Spirit that Paul will be imprisoned. And this echoes back to the previous chapter when Paul explained to the Ephesian elders how he is travelling to Jerusalem with the Holy Spirit testifying of imprisonment and afflictions waiting for him (Acts 20:22-24). Yet Paul does not turn back. He continues onward despite suffering and even death!

How could Paul live with such incredible conviction? This awakens my often frail heart that succumbs at the thought of waiting in traffic. Or my personal devotions dissolving in the comfort of sleep. For all too often my conviction is weak and laden with excuses. Paul’s conviction convicts me! And in the context of the verses mentioned above we get a glimpse of the power of his conviction. Such power was not his own. His power came from the conviction of the gospel. Paul had gospel commitment. The gospel captured his heart as one saved by the grace of God. And the gospel captured his heart as one proclaiming the gospel in word and deed. Like Paul, we live in a world fraught with many challenges. Yet we don’t have to lose heart. In fact, we can march onward with bold, commitment. Not because we have power but because of the conviction of the gospel as recipient and proclaimer. Yes, gospel commitment!