Overview:
Do you like to travel? The apostle Paul was a “man on the road,” who traveled well . . . taking the gospel wherever he went. In this sermon, travel with Pastor Chuck Swindoll through a sweeping narrative of Paul’s second and third missionary journeys. Learn from the apostle the value of companions, accountability, and resolve. Are you willing to forego comfort and travel like Paul? Will you sacrifice in obedience when God calls you to go?
Message Summary:
In “Traveling as Paul Traveled,” Chuck Swindoll provides a panoramic look at the second and third missionary journeys of the Apostle Paul. Characterizing Paul as a “man on the road,” Swindoll explores the relentless pace and sacrifice required to take the Gospel into the heart of the Roman Empire. This message moves beyond the logistics of travel to examine the spiritual qualities that sustained Paul: his deep resolve, his commitment to accountability, and his reliance on a close-knit circle of companions. Swindoll challenges believers to consider their own willingness to forego personal comfort and follow God’s call, emphasizing that the mission of God is often advanced through those who are willing to “travel well” through both triumph and trial.
Message Key Facts:
- The Value of Companions: Paul rarely traveled alone. From Silas and Timothy to Luke and Priscilla, his ministry was a collaborative effort, demonstrating that even the most gifted leaders need the support and fellowship of others.
- The Macedonian Call: Paul’s journeys were not guided by personal preference but by divine direction, most notably when a vision led him away from his intended path into Europe, changing the course of Western history.
- Accountability and Integrity: Despite his apostolic authority, Paul consistently reported back to his sending church in Antioch, illustrating that godly leadership is never independent of local church accountability.
- Resolve in the Face of Warnings: As Paul’s journeys drew toward Jerusalem, he received multiple warnings of impending imprisonment. His response—”I am ready not only to be bound, but even to die”—showcases the “grit” of a man totally surrendered to Christ.
Message References:
- The Commencement of the Second Journey
- The sharp disagreement with Barnabas and the new partnership with Silas.
- Scripture: Acts 15:36–41 (They began their journey… strengthening the churches).
- The Vision of the Man from Macedonia
- God’s sovereign intervention in Paul’s travel plans, leading the Gospel into Europe.
- Scripture: Acts 16:6–10 (A vision appeared to Paul in the night… “Come over to Macedonia and help us”).
- The Third Journey and the Strengthening of Disciples
- Paul’s return to the regions of Galatia and Phrygia, and his extensive ministry in Ephesus.
- Scripture: Acts 18:23–21:1 (He set out and passed successively through the Galatian region… strengthening all the disciples).
- The Solemn Farewell at Miletus
- Paul’s emotional address to the Ephesian elders, highlighting his focus on finishing his course with joy.
- Scripture: Acts 20:17–38 (“I do not consider my life as of any account… so that I may finish my course”).
