Paul's Journey to Jerusalem - Pt. 23: Recapping - Principles of the Pastoral Ministry (2)
- Baptist Daily Devotional
- Dec 11, 2025
- 2 min read
Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | December 11 2025 | Acts 20:29-32
KEY VERSE: “I know that after my departure fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock. (Acts 20:29, ESV)
MESSAGE:
In Bible times, wolves were the greatest threat to sheep. When Paul uses this image, he is speaking of false teachers—those whom the Lord Jesus described as wolves in sheep’s clothing. Sheep cannot defend themselves, so they depend entirely on a shepherd’s protection. In the same way, God looks to His appointed pastors to feed and guard His people.
Paul warned the Ephesian leaders that fierce, destructive influences were coming. His concern was not only external threats. Verse 30 reveals something even more troubling: some false teachers would arise from within the Church itself, twisting Scripture for selfish gain. Paul responded by pointing to his own example in verse 31. He stayed alert, watchful, and faithful in his duty. Over time, it appears the Ephesian leaders struggled to maintain this vigilance, as reflected in Paul’s letters to Timothy and the message to the Church in Ephesus in Revelation 2.
Today’s Church faces similar pressures. Distorted teachings, deceptive voices, and spiritual confusion spread quickly. Pastors cannot afford complacency. From the beginning, Satan has used twisted words to mislead. In Genesis 3, he contradicted God with a lie. In Matthew 4, he attempted to manipulate Scripture. These patterns continue in every generation.
Paul’s charge remains relevant. Shepherds must stay awake, stay grounded in truth, and guard the flock entrusted to them.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Jesus described Himself as the good Shepherd who fulfilled His duty faithfully. Paul could also say he was not guilty of failing those he served. Let each of us consider what our testimony will be at the end of our own stewardship.
PRAYER:
Lord Jesus Christ, thank You for the faithful example of Paul and the steady path You set before us. Help me remain faithful to the role and responsibilities You have given. Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING
DAILY word study: WOLVES The word "wolves" comes from the Greek "lykoi," meaning predators that attack without mercy. Paul uses this image to describe destructive influences that harm God’s people.
In Acts 20:29, Paul warns that harmful teachings and deceptive voices would enter the church community. These threats were not only external. Some would rise from within, twisting Scripture for selfish gain. Paul’s image shows how severe and damaging false teaching can be.
Reflect on this:
Let this reminder keep your heart steady in God’s Word. Staying rooted in Scripture helps you recognise what builds faith and what weakens it. Watchfulness protects your walk and strengthens those around you.
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