Christian's Journey … Like a Race
* On Paul's "third missionary journey" he spent over two years in Ephesus (19:1-41). Then he went through Macedonia to Greece, where he stayed three months (20:1-3). Then he traveled back through Macedonia and Troas, where he began sailing toward Caesarea and Jerusalem (20:3-15). On the way, his ship stopped at Miletus, about 48 km south of Ephesus (20:15).

* Read Acts 20:16-24. In this passage, Paul talks about "finishing the race" (20:24).

1. In what ways is the Christian's life-journey like a race? In what ways is it not like a race?

Manner of the Race
* After the elders of the Ephesian church arrived in Miletus, Paul reminded them of the manner of his life and service in Ephesus (20:17-21).

2. What did Paul say about the manner of his life and service?

* Paul fearlessly preached whatever was helpful to them, in both public and private settings (20:20). He faithfully "declared to both Jews and Greeks that they must turn to God in repentance and have faith in our Lord Jesus Christ" (20:21, NIV).

Motivation in the Race
* Now Paul must go to Jerusalem. Why? Because the Holy Spirit had compelled him to go. The Spirit had also warned Paul that prison and hardships were facing him (as they already had!). Still Paul did not know what would happen to him in Jerusalem (20:22-23).

3. This is another example of God's guidance. What can we learn about God's guidance from these verses?

4. After mentioning the uncertainty, prison, and hardships, Paul said, "However…" (20:24) What was most important to Paul?

? In your life-journey, what is most important to you? As a Christian, what is most important? Comfort and "security" your way? Or God's will for your life?

Team in the Race - Passing the Baton
* Read Acts 20:25-31. Paul believed that he had completed his task in Ephesus. He had fulfilled his responsibility. Now the elders must fulfill their responsibilities.

* The elders were "overseers," responsible for spiritual oversight of the church; and "shepherds," responsible for care of the flock. This was a serious responsibility because "the flock" is actually God's flock, bought at a great price - the blood of Christ (20:28).

5. What was Paul's primary concern? What does this indicate about the Christian faith?

* The Christian's journey is not an individual's race. It involves godly leadership, sound teaching, equipping others for ministry, mutual encouragement, etc. It is a team effort.

Example in the Race
* Read Acts 20:32-35. Paul was an example of selfless giving, and he encouraged others to do the same. "It is more blessed to give than to receive" (20:35).

* Paul committed the church leaders to God, and to "the word of his grace." This word is "the gospel of God's grace" (20:24), which is preserved in the Bible. As we commit ourselves to the truth revealed in the Bible, God's grace will build us up and give us "an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade - kept in heaven for [us who have believed]" (1 Peter 1:4).

The Race Goes On
* Read Acts 20:36-37. Paul did not think the Christians in Ephesus would ever see him again (20:25). The goodbyes were hard. But they knew the race would continue, for God's glory.

Reflection/Application
† What race are you running? Where does it lead? According to the Bible, the only race that leads to eternal life and glory is the Christian race. Do you need to enter that race? Those who do "must turn to God in repentance and have faith in our Lord Jesus" (Acts 20:21).

†As a Christian, what is the manner and primary motivation of your life? Read Philippians 2:12-18; 3:4-10; 2 Corinthians 4:5-12; 6:3-10; and Colossians 1:24-29. You may not be a "Paul," but his example should challenge the values and priorities of each Christian's race.