Paul's Journey to Jerusalem - Pt. 4: Plots, Plots, Plots
- Baptist Daily Devotional
- 23 hours ago
- 3 min read
Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | November 22 2025 | Acts 20:2-6
KEY VERSE: “There he spent three months, and when a plot was made against him by the Jews as he was about to set sail for Syria, he decided to return through Macedonia.” (Acts 20:3, ESV)
MESSAGE:
When the Lord spoke to Ananias in Acts 9:15-16, He made Paul’s calling clear: Paul was His chosen instrument with a broad ministry assignment, and he would suffer for the sake of Christ’s name. That divine revelation becomes more vivid as Paul later reflects on his ministry in Acts 20:19, describing how he served the Lord “with tears and with trials” brought about through repeated plots against him.
In today’s passage, yet another plot forces Paul to adjust his travel plans. Instead of sailing to Syria, he prudently returns through Macedonia. The change reminds us that being chosen by God does not remove the realities of danger, opposition, or hardship. The Christian journey has always included challenges because we live in a world opposed to the Gospel and confronted by a determined enemy.
Scripture shows how calculated and persistent these plots were. In Acts 9:24, Paul’s opponents watched the city gates day and night. In Acts 23:12-15, more than forty men bound themselves under an oath, vowing not to eat until Paul was killed. Yet, at every point, God provided a way of escape. How Paul received timely information remains a mystery of divine providence—whether through his nephew or unexpected channels, God ensured that Paul’s life and mission were preserved.
The opposition was real, but God’s sovereignty was greater. The same God who allowed affliction also guaranteed protection. The plots never halted His purposes. Through narrow escapes, hidden help, and wise decisions, God upheld His servant until his work was complete.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Scripture shows that God’s people may face many attempts from the enemy, yet none can overturn God’s purpose. David was sought daily by Saul in 1 Samuel 23:14, but the Lord preserved him. Paul also experienced repeated threats, yet Acts 28:30-31 records him continuing his ministry freely and confidently.
Let this remind you that opposition does not define your journey. God watches over His own, guides their steps, and preserves their assignment. Walk with the assurance that your life is held by a faithful God whose plans for you remain firm and uninterrupted.
PRAYER:
Lord God Almighty, thank You for the assurance that though the enemy may attempt many things, Your sovereignty prevails. Strengthen my faith to trust Your protection and walk boldly in the assignment You have given me. Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING
DAILY word study: PLOT The word translated “plot” in Acts 20:3 comes from the Greek root ἐπιβουλή (epiboulē). It means a deliberate plan, scheme, or conspiracy formed with the intent to harm.
This isn’t a random threat. It refers to a calculated, coordinated attempt—a hidden strategy designed to stop Paul and even end his life. The word appears in moments when danger is real, but God’s hand is quietly working behind the scenes.
Paul’s ministry was marked by such schemes, yet not one plot succeeded outside God’s allowance. The word reminds us that the presence of a plot does not cancel God’s plan and that the Sovereign Lord sees every hidden intention before it unfolds.
Reflect on this:
Where do you sense opposition forming around your assignment? Let this word remind you: God is already ahead of every scheme and His purpose for your life cannot be sabotaged.
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