Paul's Journey to Jerusalem - Pt. 2: Let Us Be Prudent
- Baptist Daily Devotional
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Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | November 20 2025 | Acts 20:1
KEY VERSE: “After the uproar ceased, Paul sent for the disciples, and after encouraging them, he said farewell and departed for Macedonia.” (Acts 20:1, ESV)
MESSAGE:
A key principle of ministry is that closure is as significant as entry. It is often said that the manner of one’s exit can either enhance or diminish one’s impact in any place—Paul’s departure from Ephesus models this wisdom. After the Spirit prompted him to go towards Jerusalem, he did not rush out recklessly. He called the disciples, encouraged them, and then departed. Years ago, a Christian leader, Paul White, observed that becoming a Christian does not preclude the use of our mental faculties. Paul embodied this truth. Scripture does not explain why he met the disciples privately, but the implication is clear: the environment was still unsafe, and prudence was required. His movements in verse three also reveal how new information caused him to adjust his travel plans wisely.
Acts highlights several occasions where caution and discernment preserved God’s servants. In Acts 23:12-22, Paul’s nephew discovered a plot; he informed Paul, who wisely sent him through the centurion to the Tribune. The Tribune heard the matter in private, issued a nondisclosure order, and acted swiftly.
Even the Lord Jesus demonstrated measured wisdom in His earthly ministry:
He withdrew from the crowd in John 5:13.
He retreated to the mountain when they sought to force Him into kingship in John 6:15.
He avoided Judea in John 7:1 because His life was threatened.
Prudence is not fear; it is wisdom. Being led by the Spirit does not cancel the use of our minds. God grants us discernment so that we may navigate our assignments with clarity, sound judgment, and wisdom.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Living the Christian faith requires deep spirituality, but it also demands thoughtful decision-making. Ignoring wisdom under the guise of faith is neither biblical nor safe. Ask the Holy Spirit to sharpen your spiritual and mental discernment as you walk out God’s assignments.
PRAYER:
Lord Jesus Christ, help me to be both spiritually sensitive and mentally discerning. Guide my steps with wisdom as I follow Your will. Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING
DAILY word study: SENT OFF The phrase “sent for” comes from the Greek verb metapempō, which means to summon, to call for, or to request someone’s presence—not casually, but intentionally and strategically.
It often implies:
Deliberate action
Careful timing
Purposeful gathering
A wise or cautious move in light of circumstances
In Acts 20:1, when Paul “sent for the disciples,” he wasn’t simply informing them. He intentionally summoned them for a final moment of encouragement and instruction before leaving a tense and unsafe environment.
This shows Paul’s prudence, pastoral care, and leadership wisdom—choosing the right people, the right moment, and the right setting.
Reflect on this:
Are there moments in your life where God is prompting you to act with intentionality rather than impulse? What step of wise, Spirit-led action do you feel called to “send for” today?
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