For the remainder of the book of Acts, we are going on an extraordinary sea and land cruise that will take Paul and his companions from their missionary exploits in Europe and Asia back to the mother church in Jerusalem, then all the way westward to Rome.

These were the good old days for the Apostle Paul. He had completed his second major pastorate. He was finished with his third and final formal missionary journey.

For the second time, Paul stays in one place for a long time, twice as long as the first time. He served in Corinth for a year and a half, then in Ephesus for three years. The only other lengthy stays he experienced during his ministry were in prison.  

While most of what happens in church is not reflected in this chapter, the role of the pastor is put on display. And in a clear case of what’s good for the goose is good for the gander, what is required and expected of the pastor is largely the same for every member. So what does God expect of your pastor, and you?

Let’s look at how Paul carried the cross and built bridges. They were built almost singularly with one tool. It is a key attribute of God and God’s greatest commandment, love.

The Berean believers leave us a lasting legacy of what a legitimate loving and saving relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ looks like.

Make no mistake about it, Paul’s missionary journeys were not meant to spread Christmas cheer, open coffee shops, or start yoga groups. Paul was in the world to plant churches, God-centered, biblical churches, which the world needs now much more than ever.