“A Message to Shepherds”

Tuesday, September 15, 2015

So now, brethren, I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified.”  (Acts 20:32)

Knowing that he will never again see these spiritual leaders, Paul leaves them with one final word of encouragement. He speaks candidly of the work he is done at Ephesus. Foreseeing the rise of false teachers, he charges these shepherds to duty and watchfulness. His eloquent conclusion is recorded in the above verse.

Be committed. Here we see a personal charge. The word actually means to place beside or to entrust. These men were appointed to duty by the Holy Spirit. They had been given a solemn charge to care for the Lord’s sheep. They must not take this charge lightly.

Be committed to God. Knowing God precludes all other spiritual activity. He is transcendent and separate from his creation. However, he longs for a relationship with us. Pleasing him is utmost. Thus, spiritual leaders must acknowledge their accountability to him comes before their accountability to humans. 

Be committed to God's word of grace. God's word, like God is also inseparable. His counsel is not dependent upon human acceptance. Jesus said, “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.” (John 17:17) Spiritual leaders must be fully committed to the sound words of the Gospel. They must know it and teach it.

Be committed to building up. God's word is powerful. It has life-changing power. It is able to enlighten, promote faith, purify our hearts, probe our innermost thoughts, and equip for every good work. Shepherds must use this tool to edify themselves and their flock.

Stay focused on the inheritance. God has promised an undefiled and incorruptible inheritance to those who are sanctified. It is easy to get distracted by the world. Spiritual leaders must keep an eternal perspective.

Thus, having invested his life and energy in these brethren, Paul realizes he will never see them again. To whom can he intrust their care? He commends them to God and to his Word of Grace.  

By George Slover         
 

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