Acts 20:23
Saue that the holy Ghost witnesseth in euery city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me. Acts 20:23 (KJV)
“But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.” This passage is often cited as a statement of the Apostle Paul, but it does not appear verbatim in any biblical translation. The wording is a paraphrase that reflects themes found in Paul’s genuine writings, such as his farewell address to the elders in Ephesus recorded in Acts 20 and his declaration in 2 Timothy 4:7‑8 that he has “finished the race” and “kept the faith.”
“But none of these things move me”: Paul does express steadfastness amid hardship in several letters (e.g., Philippians 1:12‑14), yet the exact phrase is not found in Scripture. The sentiment captures his resolve to remain firm despite persecution and obstacles.
“Neither count I my life dear unto myself”: Paul’s self‑sacrifice is evident in passages like Romans 12:1, where he urges believers to present themselves as a living sacrifice. However, the specific wording quoted here is not a biblical quotation.
“So that I might finish my course with joy”: The idea of completing his divine assignment with joy parallels Paul’s words in 2 Timothy 4:7‑8, where he says he has “fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith.” The quoted phrasing, however, is not directly taken from the text.
“And the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God”: Paul consistently affirms that his ministry comes from Christ (see Galatians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 15:1‑2). The concept of testifying to the gospel of God’s grace aligns with his teachings, though the exact sentence quoted is not a scriptural verse.
Overall, while the passage captures the spirit of Paul’s dedication, it should be understood as a paraphrastic summary rather than a literal biblical quotation. Recognizing this distinction helps readers appreciate Paul’s authentic words in their proper context and encourages believers to remain steadfast in their own faith journeys.
