Acts 20:17-35

Introduction:

1. Arriving at Miletus, Paul called the Ephesian elders to himself.

2. This farewell demonstrates the power of a gospel-driven life.

3. It also demonstrates God’s provisions for protecting His people.

Discussion:

I. Paul’s Heart for the Gospel (20:17-27, 31-35)

A. Hallmarks of his service in Ephesus:

1. A consistent manner of life from the beginning (vv. 18, 31).

2. Humbly accepting all hardships (vv. 19-25; 2 Corinthians 12:10).

3. Holding nothing back that would promote their growth (vv. 26-27).

B. Here he sought to further solidify their foundation (vv. 26-27, 32-35).

II. Paul’s Warning to the Ephesian Elders (20:28-31)

A. Satan would not go quietly into the night after Paul’s many victories.

B. He would use forces from without and within to destroy the Ephesian brethren if possible (vv. 28-30).

C. God placed the elders/overseers/pastors-shepherds in the church to guard the flock against these wolves (cf. Ephesians 4:11-16; 1 Peter 5:1-4).

D. The “staff and rod” in these shepherds’ hands is “…God and the word of His grace which is able to build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified” (vs. 32).

E. With so much at stake, it is little wonder He gave such strenuous qualifications for this service (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9; 1 Peter 5:1-3).

III. Paul’s Impact on the Ephesian Elders (20:36-38)

A. Paul’s dedicated service forged a powerful bond with these elders.

B. Knowing they would see him no more, they prayed, wept, expressed their affection, and went as far with him as possible (vv. 25, 36-38).

C. This is the impact of a gospel-driven life together.

Conclusion:

1. Paul’s missionary journeys provide a clinic for a gospel-driven life.

2. There is so much encouragement in seeing the Lord’s people overcome every obstacle the adversary puts in our way.

3. May we all imitate Paul as he imitated Christ (1 Corinthians 11:1).