How can church leaders prepare to defend against threats mentioned in Acts 20:29? Recognizing the Threat Paul Describes • “I know that after my departure, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock.” (Acts 20:29) • Paul is speaking literally of destructive teachers who appear orthodox but tear churches apart (cf. Matthew 7:15). • Because Scripture is accurate and sufficient, we receive this as an ongoing warning for every generation (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Strengthening Personal Vigilance in Leaders • Continual self-watch: “Pay close attention to yourselves and to all the flock” (Acts 20:28). • Daily Scripture intake—leaders who feast on the Word quickly recognize poisonous food (Psalm 119:11). • Humble dependence on the Spirit (Galatians 5:16); fleshly confidence creates blind spots. • Accountability with fellow elders (Proverbs 27:17). Lone shepherds become easy prey. Grounding the Congregation in Sound Doctrine • Expository teaching through the whole counsel of God (Acts 20:27). • Catechizing new believers in basic doctrines (Hebrews 6:1-2). • Encouraging Berean-like testing of every message (Acts 17:11). • Publishing clear doctrinal statements and reviewing them regularly (Titus 1:9). Establishing Protective Structures • Plurality of qualified elders to create a net of oversight (1 Peter 5:1-3). • Guarded membership process—verify conversion, baptism, and confession of faith (Acts 2:41-42). • Church discipline practiced lovingly but firmly to remove leaven before it spreads (1 Corinthians 5:6-7). • Policies for guest speakers and teachers—no platform without examination (2 John 10). Cultivating Discernment in the Whole Body • Regular seminars on cults, false gospels, and contemporary errors (Jude 3-4). • Training members to weigh teaching against Scripture, not charisma (1 Thessalonians 5:21). • Encouraging Scripture memorization and small-group study where questions can surface safely (Colossians 3:16). Maintaining Relational Presence with the Flock • Shepherds smell like sheep—constant visitation and conversation help sense trouble early (John 10:14). • Listening for doctrinal drift in casual talk, social media, and recommended books. • Quick, gracious confrontation when confusion appears (2 Timothy 2:24-26). Defending through Prayer and Spiritual Warfare • Persistent intercession for wisdom, unity, and purity (Ephesians 6:18). • Recognizing that behind wolves stands an enemy who schemes (Ephesians 6:11-12). • Fasting seasons when threats intensify (Acts 13:2-3). Resting under the Chief Shepherd • Jesus promises, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.” (John 10:11) • Ultimate security rests in Him; leaders are under-shepherds who guard what is His (1 Peter 5:4). • Faithful vigilance today prepares the church to meet Him unashamed tomorrow (2 Peter 3:14). |
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