How can we apply the love shown in Acts 20:38 to our church? Setting the Scene “They were especially grieved by the statement he had made that they would never see his face again. Then they accompanied him to the ship.” (Acts 20:38) The Ephesian elders’ tears, embraces, and determination to walk Paul all the way to the dock reveal a love that is tangible, sacrificial, and rooted in the gospel they had learned from him. Why Their Love Ran Deep • Shared doctrine—three years of receiving “the whole counsel of God” (Acts 20:27). • Shared trials—Paul served “with many tears and with trials” (Acts 20:19); the elders stood beside him. • Shared mission—they all prized the gospel above personal comfort (Acts 20:24). • Shared future hope—heaven’s reunion framed their earthly goodbye (1 Thessalonians 4:17-18). Timeless Principles We Can Imitate 1. Love is shown, not merely stated (James 2:15-16). 2. Emotional transparency is healthy; godly men and women weep (John 11:35). 3. Gospel partnerships outlast geographical distance (Philippians 1:5-7). 4. Honor faithful servants while they are present, not only in memorial (Romans 13:7). Concrete Ways to Apply This Love in Our Church • Practice affectionate farewells – Walk missionaries, college students, or relocating members right to their “ship” (airport, dorm, moving truck). – Send them with tears, Scripture, and laying on of hands (Acts 13:3). • Cultivate open-hearted relationships – Schedule regular home gatherings; break bread “from house to house” (Acts 2:46). – Learn to voice appreciation freely: “I thank my God in all my remembrance of you” (Philippians 1:3). • Shoulder life’s burdens together – Establish a benevolence team to meet practical needs (Galatians 6:2). – Assign prayer partners for every trial announced. • Honor leaders and servants publicly – Hold periodic “Paul-style moments” where elders and ministry heads recount God’s work and receive encouragement (1 Timothy 5:17). • Keep the gospel central – Tie every act of kindness back to the cross: “Just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another” (John 13:34-35). – Use testimonies to remind the body that Jesus first walked us to safety. Guardrails Against Shallow Sentimentality • No cliques—show “brotherly affection to one another” alike (Romans 12:10). • No manipulation—love gives without strings (1 Corinthians 13:5). • No neglect of truth—hold fast to sound teaching even while embracing (2 John 1:10). Expected Harvest When We Love Like This • Credibility before a watching world (John 13:35). • Deepened unity that withstands trials (Colossians 3:14). • Joy that strengthens service (Nehemiah 8:10). • A church family nobody wants to leave—and everyone wants to accompany all the way to the ship. |
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