Friday, July 16th
Read: Acts 20
The first section of this chapter explains the places Paul visited. It makes note of a plot set against him and his companions that travel with him.
In verses 7-12 we read the humorous story of a young man (or boy) named Eutychus. Though he fell asleep during Paul’s message, his weakness should probably not be thought of as a moral failure. Though the language is somewhat confusing, it seems best to verify that the boy was dead, and upon Paul’s healing, was brought back to life.
In the next section, Paul gathers the elders of the church of Ephesus and gives them a farewell address. By going to Jerusalem, he will probably never see these elders again. In verse 24 he makes mention of finishing the course. Paul uses this language again in 2 Timothy 4:7.
In verses 28-31 he urges the elders of the Church to shepherd the flock of God which He has put under their care. Paul can tell that in the near future, false teachers and opponents of the Truth will come to try and steal away those from the Church. It is up to the elders and solid Christians to be on their guard.
In verses 36-38 they gather together to pray and weep for Paul as he leaves them. This is the last time they would see him.
From the larger section of this chapter (Paul’s message to the elders) we can learn what it is to take care of those under our influence. Some of us will be called to be leaders (or elders) in the church of God (most evidently seen in our denomination through Officership). For those this passage will apply most directly.
Though Paul’s words are to these men in that time, it is the duty of every church leader to care for the safety of the flock of God puts in their care. For those of us in lay ministry, we will also be responsible at times for those under us. The enemy (Satan, the devil, etc.) and everyday people will intentionally or unintentionally lure the people of God away from the truth of God.
As current and potential leaders in The Salvation Army, we should be loving and knowledgeable enough to protect and advise those in our care. Like the Ephesian elders, we may be the next in line to care for God’s people. Pray that He would make us ready for such a responsibility, should He trust us with it.
Process:
1. In what ways are you called to look after God’s flock? How should you help and speak to others and protect them from the evil of this world?
2. You are also a part of God’s flock—how are you allowing others to love you and look after your well being (mentoring, discipleship, church involvement, etc)?