Why So Serious? (Acts 20:22-38)

22 And now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem… o “bound in the Spirit”; to urge to action Romans 8:14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are the sons of God. o to lead; bring; persuading or influencing o The evidence that we are the children of God: the Holy Spirit confirms his presence by leading us The prompting of the Holy Spirit

Mark 1:12 (ESV) The Spirit immediately drove him out into the wilderness. o to eject; cast (forth, out); drive; expel; send John 16:8 And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment o Admonish; convict, convince; tell a fault o That there is conflict in you, that you do not rest in complacency in your sin, is a proof that the Spirit of God is within you The prompting of the Holy Spirit

John 16:13 However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth... o Show the way; teach; used when speaking of leading animals or blind people The prompting of the Holy Spirit

John 16:13 However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come. 23 I only know that in every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me. The prompting of the Holy Spirit

 Paul had a Holy Spirit-driven life perspective Matthew 6:33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Romans 1:1 (NASB) Paul, a bond-servant of Christ Jesus, called as an apostle, set apart for the gospel of God. Ephesians 4:1 As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Paul was serious

 Paul was fully committed 1 Corinthians 9: Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. 25 Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. 26 Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. 27 No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize. Paul was serious

 Paul continually examined himself  Paul risked all for others  Paul did not covet what someone had Philippians 4:12-13 (MSG) I’m just as happy with little as with much, with much as with little. I’ve found the recipe for being happy whether full or hungry, hands full or hands empty. Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am. Paul was serious

 Paul continually examined himself  Paul risked all for others  Paul did not covet what others had  Paul worked hard Matthew 11: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Paul was serious

 Paul continually examined himself  Paul risked all for others  Paul did not covet what others had  Paul worked hard We too are being compelled by the Holy Spirit to be serious! Paul was serious