1 cor 16

Jerusalem…oh Jerusalem

opportunities and the opposition

It says something about Paul’s perception of his ministry that the presence of opposition was a sign to him of the viability of his labor and reason for pressing on, not running away

Those who opposed him in Corinth (1 Cor. 4:18–21) probably took note of this.

18 Some are arrogant, as though I were not coming to you. 19 But I will come to you soon, if the Lord wills, and I will find out not the talk of these arrogant people but their power. 20 For the kingdom of God does not consist in talk but in power. 21 What do you wish? Shall I come to you with a rod, or with love in a spirit of gentleness?

Great and effective door 16:9 Represents a special opportunity—probably to preach the gospel (compare 2 Cor 2:12; Col 4:3).

2 cor 2:12 When I came to Troas to preach the gospel of Christ, even though a door was opened for me in the Lord, 13 my spirit was not at rest because I did not find my brother Titus there.

Col 4:  Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. 3 At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison— 4 that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak.

Col 4 Paul is in prison for Gosple trouble and is looking for more gosple trouble

there are good reasons to suffer set backs