Read Acts 20:22-38
The apostle Paul often thought of discipleship or ministry in sports terms. In today's reading, he believed his race was nearly finished and the prize of being with Christ in heaven was near. As we “listen in,” we can learn several key lessons about church leadership that he urgently wanted to communicate to the Ephesian elders. First, the main thing must remain the main thing (vv. 22-27). The main thing is “testifying to the gospel of God's grace,” which outranked Paul's personal safety and certain knowledge of suffering. On an eternal scale, his life was “worth nothing” compared to remaining faithful to his calling.
Second, leaders are shepherds (vv. 28-31). Leadership and authority are to be driven by love, care, and service. What's more, watch must be kept not only over the “flock” and doctrinal purity, but also over one's still sinful self. Church leaders must always be aware that their leadership is at the sovereign pleasure of the Holy Spirit and in the service of those Christ loved unto death.
And third, servanthood is the path of leadership (vv. 32-35). Power is often used for selfish ends and personal gain, but in the church the strong should help the weak, giving is more blessed than receiving, and human foolishness can be God's wisdom. Leadership in the church comes from a willingness to follow Christ.Lord Jesus,
I pray that church leaders who read this will be smitten with conviction who are "lording it over God's heritage". Don't let the members of the flock who love you be destroyed but lead them to shepherds who will truly care for them. Lives can be destroyed by "well-meaning" but manipulative people who are walking around in the "Emperor's New Clothes." Lead us and everyone who truly cares to revival even though we are to go "through the fire." Deliver us from pettiness and meanness in spirit in our quest for holiness for that is how the pharisees were.
IN JESUS" NAME AMEN
