Acts (18)

And beginning at Moses and all the Prophets, He expounded to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself. Luke 24.27

The video for lesson 18 is the same as for lesson 17. You can view it by clicking here (scroll down to Lesson 17).

Read and meditate on Acts 20.17-24.
Here is another glimpse into what Paul did throughout his second and third missionary journeys. We’re going to linger here for a few days, because I think this section of Acts 20 gives us enormous insight into Paul, his ministry, and his vision for the church. In addition to evangelizing and starting new congregations, Paul met with existing churches in worship, and he set aside time to be with the shepherds of God’s flocks, in order to remind them of the things most important to the ongoing work of Christ.

For reflection
1.  Paul set forth his own example as a reminder and template for the elders from Ephesus – humility, diligence, faithfulness in work, both in public and in private, striving to build up the church and each member in the faith of Christ. Shepherds have three tools for making disciples and strengthening churches: prayer, the Word of God, and their personal example. How would you explain the relationship between these?

2.  From his experience in Ephesus and Greece, Paul was becoming convinced that persecutions against him would increase in the days to come, yet his only concern was to remain faithful and finish his course. Is Paul being fatalistic in outlook, or merely planning to make the most of the time yet available to him? Explain.

3.  Paul insisted his life as such didn’t matter. What matters is the work of ministry, that those who are called to it persist faithfully in it, following the example and instruction of the Apostles, and working at all times to make disciples, build the Church, and further the ongoing Kingdom work of Christ.

4.  Paul emphasized that both his teaching and his personal example were critical to the work of ministry. Pastors and elders do well to follow him in their own ministries, with humility, tears, diligence, boldness, and commitment to Christ and His Kingdom above all. How did Paul summarize his teaching ministry in verses 18-21? Should local churches feature these elements as well? Explain.

5. Paul insists that the Gospel is Good News about the grace of God. In what ways?

Summary
These inside looks at Paul’s ministry are important. We should regard them as typical of what he did in every place. He reminded people of his work as an example, reviewed his teaching, talked about the days ahead, and urged them to remain faithful in their work. Does your pastor have anyone in his life to encourage him in these matters?

Closing Prayer
As for me, I will call upon God,
And the LORD shall save me.
Evening and morning and at noon
I will pray, and cry aloud,
And He shall hear my voice.
He has redeemed my soul in peace from the battle that was against me,
For there were many against me.

Psalm 55.16-18

T. M. Moore

Each week’s studies in Acts are bound together into a free PDF that you can download for personal or group use (click here). Each week also features a video related to the studies of the week, which you may find helpful as you work through our studies in Acts.

Acts is the record of Christ’s ongoing work as King and Lord. This is the work of bringing the Kingdom of God to earth as it is in heaven. Read more about the implications of this work in our new book, The Kingdom Turn (click here).

Please prayerfully consider supporting The Fellowship of Ailbe by sending a gift to The Fellowship of Ailbe, 19 Tyler Drive, Essex Junction, VT 05452. Or, you can click here to donate online through credit card or PayPal.