In Acts 21:13, Paul boldly declared, “I am ready not only to be bound, but even to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus” (NASB). What gave Paul such confidence? What made him so ready to face death with assurance? Let’s consider why Paul was prepared to meet the Lord and how we can reflect on our own readiness.
Forming the Proper Relationship with God
Paul’s readiness to die was rooted in his relationship with the Lord. He was “in Christ.” “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 6:23, NASB). Paul had obeyed the Gospel through repentance and baptism, forming a bond with the Savior that gave him confidence in his salvation. “He who believes and is baptized shall be saved” (Mark 16:16, NASB).
Divorcing Himself from the World
Paul had separated himself from the love of this world and its distractions. He said, “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” (Acts 20:24, NASB). His sole focus was on serving Christ and saving souls. Are we able to say the same? Have we distanced ourselves from the things of the world that hinder our relationship with God?
Faithful Performance of His Duties
Paul was able to say, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7, NASB). He didn’t turn back from his responsibilities, even in the face of danger. His faithful obedience didn’t earn his salvation, but it was evidence of his commitment to the Lord. “For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8, NASB).
Are you ready to meet the Lord? If not, there is no time to waste. We must be prepared by forming the right relationship with Christ, separating ourselves from worldly desires, and faithfully serving Him. “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:58, NASB).
The Simple Gospel 