Scripture Union Daily Guide 17 November 2021 Wednesday Message
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Topic: Burden of leadership
Opening Prayer: Dear Lord, I request that you help me to encounter you as I meditate on your word.
Scripture: Acts 20:17-38
Question(s) for Reflection
• Is there any example for me to follow or not to follow?
• Is there any command for me to obey?
Outline: Paul had to depart suddenly from Ephesus because of the riot of the silversmiths. Although he could not return to Ephesus, he arranged to meet with their elders in Miletus (about 50 km away). Review the way Paul carried out his ministry (vs.18,19); the measure of his commitment (vs.20,27); and the extent of his burden for Christ (vs.21-24).
Consider also in vs.33-35, the practical lifestyle of this great apostle of Christ Jesus. Are you living for Christ? Do you maintain a clear testimony and are you committed to sharing the gospel message with people around you? ‘Compelled by the spirit’ (v.22): As we will see in the subsequent chapters, even though trouble awaited Paul in Jerusalem, he clearly felt the Lord was leading him to go there.
With that conviction, he never wavered in his resolve to go. No hardship, persecutions or trials could deter him because, for him, suffering for Christ is a part of the Christian life (Rom 8: 35 – 39). Paul finally challenged the elders to first maintain their personal spiritual wellbeing and then guide and protect the people under their care especially against the attack of ‘savage wolves’ (vs.28-31a).
Understanding and teaching the truth of the Scripture, ‘the word of His grace’ (v.32), is key to achieving these two responsibilities.
• Any new insight or reinforcement of what you already know?
Closing Prayer
• Turn v.28 into your prayer for today.
• Pray against the syndrome of sit-tight leadership in some countries.
Offer a prayer of faith in line with Psalm 112:4;1 Chron. 19-21; Luke 2:25-52
Scripture Union Daily Guide 17 November 2021. Scripture Union is an international, interdenominational, evangelical Christian organization. It was founded in 1867, and works in partnership with individuals and churches across the world. The organization’s stated aim is to use the Bible to inspire children, young people and adults to know God.