New Testament
Acts 18:20
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
When they asked him to stay longer, he declined.
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When they desired him to tarry longer time with them, he consented not;
What Acts 18:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, we see a moment where the people express a strong desire for Paul to stay with them longer. They appreciate his teachings and the impact he has had on their lives. However, Paul makes a choice to decline their request. This decision highlights the importance of knowing when to move on, even when we are wanted. Sometimes, we must prioritize our mission or calling over personal desires or the wishes of others. Paul understood that his journey was not just about staying in one place but about spreading his message further. His refusal to stay longer reminds us that we must be guided by purpose rather than popularity. It’s a powerful lesson in commitment and focus, showing that sometimes saying no is necessary for greater good. This moment encourages us to reflect on our own commitments and the importance of following our paths, even when it’s difficult to leave behind those who wish for our presence. Paul’s journey continues, and so must ours, as we seek to fulfill our own unique missions.
How to apply Acts 18:20 to your life
Consider the commitments in your life. Are there areas where you feel pressured to stay longer than necessary? Reflect on your priorities and remember that sometimes, saying no is essential for your growth and fulfillment. Trust your instincts and stay true to your path, even if it’s hard to leave others behind. Your journey matters too, and it’s okay to move on when needed.
Curated for this public verse page. Acts Summary
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Keep studying Acts 18:20
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Acts
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 62
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Acts 18:20 mean?
Acts 18:20 describes a situation where Paul is asked to stay longer with a community that values his teachings. However, he chooses to decline their request, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing his mission over personal desires.
What is the significance of Paul's refusal in Acts 18:20?
Paul's refusal to stay longer highlights the necessity of making tough decisions in pursuit of one's mission. It serves as a reminder that sometimes, moving on is essential for personal growth and fulfilling one's purpose.
What lesson can we learn from Acts 18:20?
Acts 18:20 teaches us about commitment and focus. It encourages us to evaluate our priorities and understand that saying no can be necessary for our own journey and growth.
How does Acts 18:20 relate to decision-making?
In Acts 18:20, Paul's decision to decline the request to stay longer illustrates the importance of making choices that align with our goals. It shows that effective decision-making sometimes requires us to prioritize our mission over the wishes of others.
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