Phil Rowlands

Hello, my friends!

Today, let's explore a fascinating passage from Acts 20, where Paul gives his farewell sermon to the elders at Ephesus. This is a rare glimpse into Paul's pastoral heart, as opposed to his usual role as an evangelist. His words here are rich with lessons for us, both in looking back on our lives and ministries and in looking forward to what God has in store for us.

Friends, as we wander through these passages, let us begin by considering Paul's recent life and ministry leading up to this historical moment. Paul reminds the elders that they know his life intimately. He wasn't an itinerant preacher who breezed in and out of their lives; he lived among them for three years. They saw his humility, his compassion, and his suffering. Paul served the Lord with all humility, which is a powerful example for us today. Humility in ministry means acknowledging that it's not about us—it's about serving others and pouring out our lives for the spiritual health of the church.

Paul's ministry was characterised by his commitment to sharing the whole truth of the gospel. He didn't shy away from difficult or unpopular topics. In Acts 20:20, he says, “I kept back nothing that was helpful, but proclaimed it to you, and taught you publicly and from house to house.” This is a challenge for us to be bold in our proclamation of the gospel, ensuring we share the full counsel of God, not just the parts that are easy or comfortable.

Reflecting on Paul's approach, I'm reminded of a story about a vineyard keeper. In the Song of Solomon 1:6, it says, “They made me the keeper of the vineyards, but my own vineyard I have not kept.” This verse challenges us to think about our own circumstances. It's easy to get so busy caring for others that we neglect our own spiritual health. But Paul knew that to be effective ministers, we must also take care of ourselves. This balance is crucial for anyone in ministry.

Friends, as Paul looked forward, he saw the challenges that lay ahead for both himself and the church. He was aware of the wolves that would infiltrate the church, bringing false teachings and trying to draw disciples away. His advice was clear: “Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock” (Acts 20:28). The security of the flock is entrusted to godly overseers who protect and care for the church. Paul committed them to God and the word of His grace, which he said is able to build them up and give them an inheritance among all those who are sanctified (Acts 20:32).

In his farewell, Paul emphasised the gospel of grace, the central theme of his ministry. He testified “to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ” (Acts 20:21). This is the heart of the gospel: turning to God in repentance – “metanoia” – changing one’s mind – from unbelief to belief – placing our faith in Jesus. Paul's dedication to this message is a reminder for us to keep the main thing the main thing. Our faith is not about religious rituals or legalistic practices; it's about a relationship with Jesus Christ, grounded in grace.

To illustrate this, think of a child with their parent on an aeroplane. When the oxygen masks drop, the parent is instructed to secure their own mask first before helping their child. It might seem counterintuitive, but if the parent isn't able to breathe, they won't be able to help the child. Similarly, in our spiritual lives, we must ensure we are grounded in the grace of God so that we can effectively minister to others.

Paul's farewell speech also highlights the importance of perseverance and steadfastness in our faith journey. He knew that hardships and persecutions awaited him, yet he was determined to finish his race with joy and the ministry he received from the Lord Jesus (Acts 20:24). This speaks volumes about Paul's unwavering commitment to his mission and his trust in God's plan, despite the imminent dangers.

Think of a marathon runner who pushes through the pain and exhaustion to reach the finish line. The runner's focus is not on the discomfort but on the goal ahead. In the same way, Paul teaches us to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus and the purpose He has for our lives, enduring whatever trials may come our way with a joyful heart. This perspective transforms our hardships into opportunities for growth and deeper reliance on God's strength.

Another significant aspect of Paul's farewell is his warning about false teachers. He knew that after his departure, savage wolves would come in among the flock, not sparing the sheep (Acts 20:29). This is a sobering reminder that the church is always at risk of being infiltrated by those who distort the truth. Paul's exhortation to the elders to be vigilant and to guard the flock is as relevant today as it was then. We must be discerning and grounded in the Word of God to recognise and reject false teachings.

Paul's reliance on the word of God's grace is another key takeaway from his farewell speech. He commended the elders to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build them up and give them an inheritance among all those who are sanctified (Acts 20:32). This underscores the transformative power of God's grace in our lives. It's not our efforts or achievements that secure our place in God's kingdom, but His grace alone. This grace builds us up, strengthens our faith, and assures us of our eternal inheritance.

In practical terms, this means we should immerse ourselves in the scriptures, allowing God's word to shape our beliefs, our character, and our actions. Just as a plant needs sunlight and water to grow, we need the nourishment of God's word to thrive spiritually. Regular Bible study, prayer, and fellowship with other believers are essential practices that help us stay rooted and established in the knowledge and wisdom of God's grace.

Paul's speech also reflects his deep love and care for the believers in Ephesus. He reminded them that for three years, he did not cease to warn everyone night and day with tears (Acts 20:31). This level of dedication and emotional investment is a powerful example of pastoral care. It shows us the importance of being genuinely concerned for the spiritual well-being of others, of being willing to invest time, energy, and even tears into their growth and protection.

Think of a shepherd who tirelessly watches over his sheep, guiding them to green pastures and protecting them from predators. This is the kind of care Paul demonstrated, and it's the kind of care we are called to show to one another. It's about being present, being attentive, and being willing to go the extra mile to support and nurture those in our spiritual community.

Finally, Paul's farewell is marked by a sense of deep personal sacrifice. He reminded the elders that he coveted no one's silver or gold or apparel. Instead, he worked with his own hands to provide for his needs and the needs of those with him (Acts 20:33-34). This selflessness is a powerful testament to Paul's integrity and his commitment to serving others without seeking personal gain.

In a world that often values wealth, status, and recognition, Paul's example challenges us to re-evaluate our priorities. True ministry is not about accumulating material possessions or seeking human accolades. It's about serving God and others with a pure heart, trusting that God will provide for our needs as we faithfully follow His call.

As we meditate on Paul's farewell sermon, let's be inspired to live lives marked by humility, boldness in proclaiming the gospel, a deep reliance on God's grace, perseverance through trials, vigilance against false teachings, and genuine care for others. Let's strive to finish our race with joy, just as Paul did, knowing that our ultimate reward is not in this world but in the eternal inheritance we have in Christ.

Friends, as we consider Paul's ministry and his farewell message, let's be encouraged to live lives marked by humility, boldness in proclaiming the gospel, and a deep reliance on God's grace. Just as Paul looked back with gratitude and forward with faith, we too can trust that God is with us in every season of life.

Be blessed today, my brothers and sisters. Let's commit to serving others with humility, proclaiming the full counsel of God, and relying on His grace for every step of our journey.

Phil