Paul's Plans

1 Cor. 16:9 For a great door and effectual is opened unto me, and [there are] many adversaries.
16:10 Now if Timotheus come, see that he may be with you without fear: for he worketh the work of the Lord, as I also [do].

Paul saw that "a great door and effectual" was opening before him, although there were "many adversaries." 1 Corinthians 16:9. Ephesus was not only the most magnificent, but the most corrupt, of the cities of Asia. Superstition and sensual pleasure held sway over her teeming population. Under the shadow of her temples, criminals of every grade found shelter, and the most degrading vices flourished. {AA 286.1}