Priorities before going up to Jerusalem

Paul was a servant of Christ with an excellent sense of balance. While his long-term plan was to go up to Jerusalem, he also had short-term plans that he prioritized as necessary. “And after he sent into Macedonia two of those who assisted him, Timothy and Erastus, he himself stayed in Asia for a while.” (1) Paul had ministry priorities to address before heading to Rome, particularly in Macedonia. Specifically, he planned to serve the churches in Philippi and Berea. However, he could not return to Thessalonica due to prior unrest there, which had forced him to leave (ref Acts 17:9-10). Additionally, Paul had ministry obligations in Achaia, particularly in Corinth. His visit to Jerusalem was something to be undertaken only after completing these tasks. (2) Paul sent two of his coworkers ahead to Macedonia to prepare for the collection of offerings. (a) Here, Timothy reappears. The last time he was mentioned was during the ministry in Corinth (Acts 18:5), and now he emerges again. (b) The name Erastus appears in Romans 16:23: “Gaius, host to me and to the whole church, greets you. Erastus, the city treasurer, greets you, and Quartus, the brother.” Erastus was a wealthy believer and the city treasurer of Corinth. His name has been discovered in the ruins of Corinth (inscribed on a stone plaza he is credited with funding). (3) “He himself stayed in Asia for a while.” (a) Paul decided to remain in Asia for a little longer to continue his ministry. (b) During this period, Paul wrote 1 Corinthians. He stated: “But I will remain in Ephesus until Pentecost; for a wide door for effective service has opened to me, and there are many adversaries” (1 Cor. 16:8-9). Paul intended to stay a little longer in Ephesus, where a door for ministry had opened, but as we will see next time, a riot forced him to leave the city. It was as though the Lord was commanding him to move forward. Paul had various plans, but ultimately, only the will of the Lord prevailed. Those who can pray, “Your will be done,” even when things do not go according to their own plans, are true heroes of faith.