Paul’s statement here demonstrates how God’s mission supersedes every earthly priority.
“But I do not consider my life of any account as dear to myself, so that I may finish my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of God.” (v.24) Here in Acts 20:24, Paul firmly states that his own life is secondary. The apostle, who was born around AD 5 and became a pivotal figure in early Christianity, underscores his willingness to lose everything so long as he completes the mission entrusted to him by Jesus. Historically, this moment takes place during Paul’s third missionary journey (approximately AD 53-57) as he travels through regions that include Macedonia, Greece, and Asia Minor. Although he addresses the Ephesian elders in Miletus—an ancient city on the western coast of modern-day Turkey—his commitment is directed beyond any one location; it is about fulfilling God’s commission.
“…so that I may finish my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus…” (v.24) indicates that Paul sees his life as part of a marathon he is determined to run to the end. This “course” is not merely his personal ambition, but a divine calling that Jesus Himself laid upon him. Paul was once a Pharisee, initially opposing followers of Christ (Acts 8:1-3, as a supporting reference), but he was transformed on the road to Damascus. Now, he embraces the entirety of his new ministry with unwavering passion, demonstrating both resolve and humility.
The phrase “…to testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of God.” (v.24) highlights the core message that drives Paul’s life. The “gospel of the grace of God” points to God’s unmerited favor offered through Christ’s sacrificial death and resurrection (Romans 5:8, as a supporting reference). For Paul, this good news is more precious than personal well-being or safety. He stands ready to face hardship—even death—if it means proclaiming salvation through Jesus. In this verse, we see an example for modern believers: just as Paul submitted his entire life to the Lord, we, too, can yield personal comfort to share God’s grace with the world.
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Acts 20:24 meaning
“But I do not consider my life of any account as dear to myself, so that I may finish my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of God.” (v.24) Here in Acts 20:24, Paul firmly states that his own life is secondary. The apostle, who was born around AD 5 and became a pivotal figure in early Christianity, underscores his willingness to lose everything so long as he completes the mission entrusted to him by Jesus. Historically, this moment takes place during Paul’s third missionary journey (approximately AD 53-57) as he travels through regions that include Macedonia, Greece, and Asia Minor. Although he addresses the Ephesian elders in Miletus—an ancient city on the western coast of modern-day Turkey—his commitment is directed beyond any one location; it is about fulfilling God’s commission.
“…so that I may finish my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus…” (v.24) indicates that Paul sees his life as part of a marathon he is determined to run to the end. This “course” is not merely his personal ambition, but a divine calling that Jesus Himself laid upon him. Paul was once a Pharisee, initially opposing followers of Christ (Acts 8:1-3, as a supporting reference), but he was transformed on the road to Damascus. Now, he embraces the entirety of his new ministry with unwavering passion, demonstrating both resolve and humility.
The phrase “…to testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of God.” (v.24) highlights the core message that drives Paul’s life. The “gospel of the grace of God” points to God’s unmerited favor offered through Christ’s sacrificial death and resurrection (Romans 5:8, as a supporting reference). For Paul, this good news is more precious than personal well-being or safety. He stands ready to face hardship—even death—if it means proclaiming salvation through Jesus. In this verse, we see an example for modern believers: just as Paul submitted his entire life to the Lord, we, too, can yield personal comfort to share God’s grace with the world.