The apostle Paul knew he would never see those elders again. This was his last chance to talk to them, so his words carried even more weight and importance than usual. Paul began in verse 28 with the words, “Take heed therefore unto yourselves...” (Acts 20:28). Paul said these words to the elders, the presbuteros. This verse could also be phrased, “Keep a watchful eye on yourselves....”
TO ALL THE PASTORS IN SONOGO ~ Number one, we don’t have a “College of Elders” in our geographical areas. That’s how subnormal we are. What would happen if you were to call all the elders in your geographical area and say, “It is important for us to get together because we are the leaders of God’s people in this area; could we all get together for an hour on Thursday afternoon?” What are the chances of getting all the elders in your area together for an hour during the week? Pretty slim. Why? Most of them will put their proprietary rights over their church first, even in the face of God’s clear command!
Our first responsibility as elders is to maintain equality and care within the local body of elders and to guard our relationships. If we allow division and differences to separate the leaders, then the people of God will be separated as well.
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