Scriptures Cited: Acts 20:17-38, 18:19, 19:10, 20:7-12; Philippians 2:14; Luke 18:18; 2 Corinthians 11:23; James 1:27; 1st Timothy 1; 2nd Timothy 3, 4; Titus 2; 1 Corinthians 1; Romans 16; Titus 3

Introduction:

The book of Acts was written by Luke, a traveling companion of Paul, and details the events of the early church. Acts 20:17-38 details a speech by Paul to the Ephesian elders offering encouragement and emphasizes the importance of building genuine relationships with people, expecting obstacles to ministry, and guarding against false teaching.

4. Building genuine relationships
a. Paul lived his faith with conviction. When others see your life, do they see love first?
b. Paul reminds the Ephesian elders to serve with humility and of his service to them. As a result, they should serve others and we should follow their example.
c. When we serve with humility, we are able strengthen our relationships and demonstrate love.
5. Expect obstacles
a. Paul felt constrained by the spirit to go to Jerusalem. The word here, constrained, literally translates to be bound or tied. The Lord may lead you to struggles and difficulties, but He also leads you through them.
b. Paul did not value his own life more than his call to share Jesus.
6. Guard against false teaching
a. Paul warns here that there will be attacks from outside the church. The world stands opposed to the cross. We need to guard from these attacks.
b. Paul gives another warning here to guard against division from inside the church. The best way to combat heresy is to know and understand the word of God.