Acts 20:13-38 - Paul Addresses the Elphesian Elders

Introduction

The Body (v17-38)

Paul Ministered Well (v.17-25)

MAIN APPLICATION POINT: STRIVE TO FINISH WELL IN OUR MINISTRIES

Did not shrink back from teaching everything that was profitable (v.20)

Taught publically and from house to house (v.20)

Did all these things with the threat of persecution (v.19)

Paul preached the gospel unashamedly (v.21)

1 Corinthians 2:2 ESV

2 For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and him crucified.

Paul knows he will be imprisoned and captured when he goes to Jerusalem - This is his Swan Song (v.22-25)

He follows a path similar to our Lord as he went to Jerusalem.

Paul preached the full counsel of God (v.26-27)

MAIN APPLICATION POINT: STRIVE TO UNDERSTAND THE FULL COUNSEL OF GOD

Paul was not afraid to write about or teach about any topic within the word of God

We must assume this same heart and care

Paul warned the people about wolves (v.28-32)

These wolves would be the clergy and those who promote false teaching

As we seek to grow our eldership here are the church we must find men who fit all the biblical qualifications

Not only in their doctrine but also in their character

It is better to give than receive (v.33-35)

It is better for us to give to others than to receive!

Receiving is not sinful by any means, but we should try to be a generous people

Im not just talking about church - we as christians should be generous to our waters and waitresses and to others who are in need

Main Application

Strive to finish well in our ministries

Strive to understand the full counsel of God

Strive to keep away the wolves

Strive to give more than you receive