Paul Purposed in the Spirit

It says in verse 21 that Paul purposed in the Spirit to go to Jerusalem and then also to Rome. These were very ambitious purposes considering the fact that he was going to receive so much opposition from wicked men. But I want to show you that it was by this means that God gave Paul the desire of his heart, which was to preach the gospel of the grace of God in all the places that he purposed to go to; even in every place which the Lord led him.
Let me give you 4 observations on the kind of reasoning which we see taking place in hearts of men in that place at that time. 1st of all, I want to speak to you about how Paul purposed to do what he did by reasoning in the Holy Spirit. 2nd – I want to show you how Demetrius purposed to do what He did by reasoning in the flesh. 3rd – I want you to see how the whole city was thrown into rage and confusion because they didn't reason at all. And 4th – How it was, that the city clerk used the voice of reason to restore order to the city. I believe that as we think about these things that the Lord will teach us many good things about how He he can, and how He will, lead us through opposition to fulfill the ministry which He has called us to do.