FINISH THE RACE (PART 3)

Paul’s Final Words

As Paul’s execution drew near, God prepared his heart. He wrote his spiritual son Timothy: “Now the time has come for me to die. My life is like a drink offering being poured out on the altar. I have fought well, I have finished the race, and I have been faithful. So a crown will be given to me for pleasing the Lord.” 2 Timothy 4:6-8 CEV.

Finally, Paul was sentenced to death. Because he was a Roman citizen, he was not tortured like so many of the believers were during Nero’s reign, but was beheaded outside the city. He was approximately 64 years old.

Walking in God’s Will

There is a time to resist persecution and escape. We have seen how Paul did. Jesus did also. He walked through the middle of a crowd in Nazareth who wanted to throw him off a cliff (Luke 4:28-30). He walked through the midst of a crowd in Jerusalem who tried to stone Him (John 8:59). Later, other Jewish leaders tried to arrest Him, but He escaped out of their hands (John 10:39). On the night He was betrayed, when He said, “I am He,” the soldiers drew back and fell to the ground (John 18:6). Jesus could have escaped, but this time, He didn’t.

Jesus Freaks know God well enough to know His will for their lives and when that will be accomplished.

Finishing the Race

Paul knew he had finished his race and it was all right for him to go home to be with the Lord. Until he knew that, he always kept his eyes of faith looking for God’s grace to either deliver him, help him endure, and even raise him from the dead. He refused to quit until he’d won!

For to me, living is for Christ, and dying is even better. Yet if I live, that means fruitful service for Christ. I really don’t know which is better. I’m torn between two desires: Sometimes I want to live, and sometimes I long to go and be with Christ. That would be far better for me, but it is better for you that I live. I am convinced of this, so I will continue with you so that you will grow and experience the joy of your faith. Philippians 1:21-25.

Date: 23rd September 2023
Martyr: Saul of Tarsus
Location: Roman Empire, 35. AD
Source: Jesus Freaks
Author: DC Talk and The Voice of Martyrs

Suffering Saturday 057