THE STANDARD FOR SHEPHERDS

When Paul summons the Ephesian elders, the message he has for them sets the standard for those who are called to shepherd God’s flock. His model for God’s shepherds matched his message to them. The portion of the passage we will focus on is Acts 20:26-28. 

Paul spoke of having A CLEAR CONSCIENCE. “Therefore I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all men,” (v. 26). Doubtless, Paul was reflecting on the words found in Ezekiel’s prophecy, where God’s man is portrayed as a watchman on the wall, (cf. Ezek. 3:16-21; 33:1-11). If the watchman fails to warn the people of the enemy’s attack, then the blood of those who perish is on the hands of the watchman. People hopefully will heed the warning, but if they do not, then we are not responsible. We have done our duty. Our hands are not stained with blood. Our conscience is clear.  

Paul presented A COMPREHENSIVE COMMUNICATION. “For I have not shunned to declare to you the whole counsel of God,” (v. 27). It is easy to “cherry pick” texts that will gain you approval and applause. The temptation is to avoid the tough words that will convict of sin and may arouse criticism. Everyone enjoys sermons about salvation and heaven—sermons on sin and hell, not so much. It is also possible to fail at the opposite end of the spectrum in having a pet doctrine or particular sin that we pound on repeatedly to the neglect of other truths. Our task is to preach the Word comprehensively.  There are certainly occasions where a topical sermon may be preached—as long as the texts are not taken out of context. We may be led to preach expository sermons on a particular theme for several Sundays. The pattern that best assures a comprehensive communication is to take a Bible book and preach through it. The sheep need a balanced diet.

Paul concluded with A COMPELLING CHARGE, “Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood,” (v. 28).  The impact of men who preceded me in ministry has been indispensable in shaping me. The charge they have given me still burns in my heart and compels me to faithfulness. As an Olympic torch is passed from one runner to the next, so the torch of truth has been handed to me. Now, as I near the end of my leg of that race, I must pass it on to the next generation. To use Paul’s analogy here, he is handing off the shepherd’s staff to the next generation of shepherds. He gives them a compelling charge. I submit that our task as faithful shepherds is to raise up those who will replace us. Who are you mentoring in ministry?