Make Your Plans But Be Willing to Change Them!
But now that there is no more place for me to work in these regions, and since I have been longing for many years to visit you, I plan to do so when I go to Spain. I hope to see you while passing through and to have you assist me on my journey there, after I have enjoyed your company for a while. Now, however, I am on my way to Jerusalem in the service of the Lord’s people there. Romans 15:23-25 NIV
Paul had a strategic plan for taking the gospel to the Gentiles and fulfilling his God-given calling. He focused his pioneering efforts in key transportation and communication hub cities, trusting that as the number of believers grew, they would take the gospel to the surrounding geographical area.
Paul was very clear regarding his personal contribution to the Great Commission. He describes himself as a ‘foundation layer’ – he pioneered new places where the gospel had not been heard. He purposefully did not work where others had already labored, not building on someone else’s foundation. (Romans 15:20) He was not an elitist or egotist. It was wisdom and strategy. Because there were so many to be reached, he tried to avoid duplicated effort.
Thus, Paul could say, “there is no more place for me to work in these regions.” The eastern part of the Roman Empire was mission accomplished! Now it was time for him to focus on the west – to Rome and then northwest to Spain. Certainly there were countless thousands who had not yet heard in the east, but his strategy allowed him to say his part of the work was done. Strategy and planning how to execute it are ministry leadership essentials. But remember, as you carry out your plans, listen carefully for the Holy Spirit’s guidance. There may be some parts of your plan that need to change.
Paul wanted to enter the province of Asia (hub city, Ephesus) but was prevented by the Holy Spirit. Two other closed provincial doors finally led him and his team to Troas where he received clarity that the next initiative would be in Macedonia (see Acts 16:6-10). Note that the entire missionary team approved the change of direction after hearing Paul’s explanation. Always be flexible in your execution.
