Paul's Journey to Jerusalem - Pt. 20: A Splendid Farewell
- Baptist Daily Devotional
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Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | December 8 2025 | Acts 20:36-38
KEY VERSE: “And they accompanied him to the ship.” (Acts 20:38b, ESV)
MESSAGE:
Today, we begin a two-part reflection on Paul’s farewell. To appreciate the depth of this moment, it helps to look at Paul’s other departures in the book of Acts.
In Acts 20:1, after the uproar, Paul quietly said farewell and left for Macedonia after encouraging the disciples. It was a discreet, almost hidden departure. In Acts 16:35-40, after being released from prison, Paul and Silas met with Lydia and the believers, received encouragement, and were escorted out of the city.
In Acts 17:1-7, they were secretly sent away from Thessalonica because of hostility and danger. Paul later wrote in 1 Thessalonians that the manner of their departure left him deeply concerned about the believers. Their sudden exit created anxiety about the spiritual well-being of the new converts (1 Thessalonians 3:1-2). His desire to return was strong, yet he said Satan hindered them. Paul’s final farewell to the Jews in Rome was also not pleasant (Acts 28:17–28). Many rejected his message, leading him to turn to the Gentiles. Seen together, these departures show that farewells in ministry are rarely neat or predictable. Paul moved through them with conviction, love, and devotion to the people God entrusted to him.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Paul’s departures were not always ideal, yet he handled each one with purpose. He knew his rights and stood by them when it mattered. He spoke encouragement even when the moment was hurried. He held to Scripture when the atmosphere was tense. His example invites us to live the same way. Stand steady when situations shift, share words of strength as you move on, and keep the Word close to guide your steps in moments that feel unclear.
PRAYER:
Lord Jesus Christ, nations and governments belong to You. Teach Your people to know and insist on their rightful protections, and help every shepherd care faithfully for the well-being of Your flock. Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING
DAILY word study: ACCOMPANIED The word accompanied comes from the Greek propempō, which means “to send forward,” “to escort,” or “to walk with someone to their point of departure.”
In the New Testament, propempō is more than a polite gesture. It reflects honour, support, and shared commitment. When the Ephesian elders accompanied Paul to the ship, they were not simply saying goodbye. They were expressing loyalty, gratitude, and spiritual solidarity. They walked with him as far as they could, knowing the future held challenges they could not share.
Reflect on this:
Your presence can strengthen someone’s courage. When you walk with others in their moments of change, you offer comfort that words alone cannot give. Seek opportunities to be that steady presence for someone today.
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