Paul in Ephesus

Paul fought wild beasts in Ephesus. He traveled with leaders of the Church to visit the   saints of the city.  He had many opportunities to preach the gospel in Ephesus, however opposition was growing and he needed to be careful meeting and gathering with the members.  

Paul's epistles have been preserved for our day. His recorded missions covered more than 14,000 miles. He spent his remarkable life continually admonishing members to remain true to the gospel of Jesus Christ and not forsake their testimonies.  Many times he fought the wolves at the gates whom sought to lead members away for their own gain and version of faith.

While serving in Macedonia, Paul requested in his letter to Timothy, to remain in Ephesus and urged Timothy to continue to ensure true doctrine with authority was taught, "charge some that they teach no other doctrine, neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minster questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith." 1 Timothy 1:4

Paul an Apostle and witness of the Savior served without fear, served mightily, and taught the true gospel with authority.  In his mission he fought wild animals, was beaten, shipped wrecked, twice imprisoned, and eventually martyred.  While imprisoned he lamented in his letter to Timothy, the members in Asia, which included Ephesus, had turned away from him and the truth, "This thou knowest, that all they which are in Asia be turned away from me..."  2 Timothy 1:15.

While walking in this ancient city, on the very marble pavement that Paul had traversed an appreciation of his sacrifice and commitment to the Savior filled my heart.  In his final letter to Timothy his confidence in his relationship with the Lord is deeply stirring.

"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:  Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing." 

- 2 Timothy 4:7-8