Acts 20 - The Secret to Life

Well, this is it; one of those many Bible passages that contain the secret to life. And it gives us a clear picture of how a Christian man ought to live, think, serve, and lead. Lord God, I thank you for how you modeled leadership and the example of your apostles.

Notice the drive and determination of the disciples of Christ. Neither mob nor riot, not political or economic uproar or murderous plot by wicked men (v. 3) could stop Paul from encouraging the believers. I love how Paul gathers the believers together after the riotous debacle in Ephesus. That’s leadership. Gather the team and encourage them!

Men:  we must be servant leaders. All the rage these days is talk about level-five leaders and transformational leaders. The secular world has figured out the biblical principle of servant leadership. But has the Church? We must mentor other men and not be afraid to travel, preach, heal the sick, work hard to support God’s people, and oversee God’s flock. This passage asks a question of eternal significance: what’s your life worth? And what’s mine worth? Paul says that his life is worth nothing unless he finishes the work God assigned to him. It is no different for you or me. A man can have a worthless life. We gotta get in the game, and fast.

Notice that Paul’s group had at least eight men (v. 4, the seven listed, and Dr. Luke). How many people are you mentoring, encouraging, and leading as an example for Christ? Start with one. Pray for someone this morning. And, if you are young in the faith, ensure you follow the example of a godly leader. Start today. If your model, your mentor, is primarily concerned about silver, gold, and fine clothes (v. 33), then find another - immediately.

The Acts Church was kinda like my Venezuelan friends, not scared to gather and break bread after midnight. Jesus’ men are not afraid to preach all night if necessary. But the work of Jesus’ teachers and servant leaders is that they preach one message to all people. That’s what Paul tells us here: The necessity of repenting from sin, turning to God, and having faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. That’s it. That’s the Gospel.

Paul shows us to follow the Holy Spirit and to finish the work assigned to us by the Lord Jesus - the job of telling others the Good News about the wonderful grace of God.

Yes, that is your assignment. And yes, mine too. We all have unique giftings and particular assignments, all within the grand privilege and calling as God’s ambassadors.

Don’t be so proud as to take the best seat, the easy role, or the easy route. Lead by example. Take the heavy load, pick up the trash, do the first draft, the challenging tasks, and the big responsibilities.

Don’t be a lone ranger. Encourage others. Include others. Take a risk by believing in and empowering others. Communicate well. Trust God. Recognize the schemes and ill intentions of false teachers and evil men, but trust God and encourage His people. It is not for us to seek a big following, to be a “somebody.” It is to us to trust God, to entrust everything to Him.

Always lead by example. Today’s a new day, and the sun is rising anew. Thank God for His mercy is trustworthy today. Stay away from greedy people. Good leaders are on constant watch, guarding themselves, their families, and God’s people.

Lord Jesus, it is you we trust; you who build us up.

                                    Thank you, Lord Jesus, Amen.

Kari and Colt (on his 1st Birthday!)