"This Is My Story: Paul's Example"

1. Paul _knew the people_ and served the Lord

Acts 20:17–19 NIV84

From Miletus, Paul sent to Ephesus for the elders of the church. When they arrived, he said to them: “You know how I lived the whole time I was with you, from the first day I came into the province of Asia. I served the Lord with great humility and with tears, although I was severely tested by the plots of the Jews.

1. Paul knew the people and served the Lord

2. Paul _preached the gospel_ and declared the Lord

Acts 20:20–21 NIV84

You know that I have not hesitated to preach anything that would be helpful to you but have taught you publicly and from house to house. I have declared to both Jews and Greeks that they must turn to God in repentance and have faith in our Lord Jesus.

2. Paul preached the gospel and declared the Lord

3. Paul _lived by the Spirit_ and treasured finishing

Acts 20:22–24 NIV84

“And now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there. I only know that in every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me. However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God’s grace.

3. Paul lived by the Spirit and treasured finishing