Acts 20:13–38 | Deliberate Care for the Church

First Irving Sermons

Main Idea. Through his own blood, Christ purchased the Church, and he cares for the Church by providing elders who must be faithful and vigilant in their oversight. Driving Question. What does the church need from her leaders? (let's consider 5 things) 1. The Church Needs Humble Elders (19) 2. The Church Needs Scripture-Centered Elders (20–27) 1. Notice the verbs: declare (20, 27), teach (20), testify (21, 24, 26), proclaiming (25). 2. And what did Paul declare, teach, proclaim, and testify to? Anything profitable (20) Repentance toward God and faith in Jesus Christ (21) The gospel and the grace of God (24) The kingdom (25) The whole counsel of God (27) What can we learn from Paul and his ministry of the word? He drew near to minister the word (20). He taught the gospel (21). He treasured Christ more than his life (24). His conscience was clear (25–27). 3. The Church Needs Careful Elders (28–31) 1. We are to pay attention to ourselves (28). 2. We must pay attention to the whole flock (28). There are two places of threats. Outside the flock (29) Inside the flock (30). 4. The Church Needs Confident Elders (32) 5. The Church Needs Considerate Elders (33–38) Responses. Would you pray for your elders daily? Would you trust the Lord in his provision for this Church?