Acts 20:18-35
In the book of Acts, it is often that we see Paul the evangelist, but in Acts 20:17-38, we catch a glimpse of Paul the pastor. In his farewell address to the elders in the church at Ephesus, Paul recounts his ministry among them, what he sees as the road ahead for him and for their ongoing ministry in caring for Jesus’ church. From this we receive a powerful description of what leadership looks like in the church, particularly in pastoral ministry. Pastors (and other leaders in the church) are to be men of character and caring concern; committing the people in their charge to God for growth. The truth is–pastors are simply followers who are leading the way. This is how the Gospel impacts a dark world, not by man’s strength, but by God’s Spirit – visible, valuable, and vital in and for His people.