By Jay T. Robertson, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Christian Studies, University of Mobile
DELIVERED
Acts 20:22–35
Acts is the unfolding story of the people of God, filled with the Spirit of God, engaging in the mission of God. As Jesus’ followers, filled with the Spirit of God, we are to share the gospel with lost people. In these verses Paul met with the Ephesian elders for the last time and taught them that sharing the gospel is worth the sacrifice and effort.
His Commitment (22–24)
Paul had an exceptionally strong sense of compulsion that he was to go quickly to Jerusalem even though the Holy Spirit was clear that much pain awaited him there. These are challenging verses for us. We often interpret God’s plan for us as the easy path, involving a bigger paycheck, a better neighborhood or an easier life. Yet Paul knew he was headed to afflictions and chains and that the Lord was constraining him to go. We probably need a whole new theology of God’s will.
Paul’s assessment was that none of the threats ultimately concerned him as much as the completion of his mission. Paul said in light of Christ and the course He had given him, he did not count his life as precious. When it comes to counting our lives as more precious to us than Christ, we need to repent and smash the idols.
Paul was wholeheartedly committed to testifying to the gospel of the grace of God. He was willing to endure hardship to advance the gospel. Just as Jesus suffered to secure our salvation, Paul was willing to suffer to spread the glorious gospel of God’s amazing grace.
His Concern (25–31)
Paul told the Ephesian elders (pastors) that he was innocent of the blood of all because he did not shrink from declaring the whole counsel of God to the people in Ephesus. He had comprehensively and consistently taught them about the kingdom of God.
He exhorted the elders to pay careful attention to themselves. The elders must pursue holiness in their own lives before they are able to shepherd God’s sheep. The elders must guard their own spiritual and moral purity before caring for others.
Paul also exhorted the elders to pay careful attention to the flock. He warned them of both external and internal threats that would jeopardize the gospel ministry of the church. The Middle Eastern shepherd had to protect his sheep from wolves. Elders must protect the church from theological wolves. Paul challenged the elders to be vigilant in guarding the good deposit of sound doctrine.
His Commendation (32–35)
Paul commended the Ephesian elders to God and to the Word of His grace. Paul’s commendation highlights the Word of God, centrally a message of grace, which grants Jesus’ followers a share in the heavenly inheritance. He reminded these leaders of the power of the gospel, which saves the lost and builds up believers.
His commendation also highlighted the fact that God Himself is the ultimate watchman. God is the faithful protector of His church. Paul was reminding the elders that they do not shepherd alone. Jesus is with them (Heb. 13:5) and Jesus will build His church (Matt. 16:18). God’s promises, God’s presence and God’s powerful gospel bring much needed comfort and encouragement to pastors who feel the incredible weight of shepherding the flock of God.
These are Paul’s final words to the Ephesian elders. A person’s final words are intended to be lasting words. As you prayerfully apply the truths of the Scripture in your life, answer this question honestly: Am I living for what really matters?
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