Acts 20:13-38

Paul was not a con man or politician. Con men and politicians seek honor and glory; they succeed by their ability to speak persuasively. They live off the wealth created by others. They seek conflict because it gives them an opportunity to manipulate and control others. It is a characteristic of the unrighteous to rejoice in chaos and conflict.

Paul did not seek conflict, but he had more than his fair share. He avoided what he could, but when necessary he approached it head-on. Those who opposed the gospel automatically opposed Paul because he preached the gospel. Sometimes that opposition took the form of a direct attack, but not always. While he was away, his opponents were busy in Ephesus seeking to undermine him. They believed that by undermining people’s faith in Paul’s motives they would undermine faith in Paul’s savior. They accused Paul of wanting glory, honor and monetary gain. They painted a picture of him as a con man or politician.

Paul confronted the conflict head-on. He appealed to the leaders of the church of Ephesus to remember their personal relationship with him. He was righteous in his relationship with them. He was humble and not arrogant. What he taught in public matched what he said in private. He did not covet anyone’s silver, gold or clothing. They knew that he supplied his own needs and the needs of his companions by his work as a tent maker. By his example, he showed others how hard work enabled him to help the weak. His reputation, by those who knew him best, was that of a giver not a taker. They knew that it was his message, not his delivery, which led them to salvation. His message was the same for Jews and Greeks alike. He preached repentance and faith in Jesus Christ.

Paul could pass the con man test, but not every preacher and ministry can. The opposition was right about one thing. Christians should not support glory seeking, money hungry, false prophets.