FRIDAY October 27, 2023

A Final Farewell

“And indeed, now I know that you all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, will see my face no more. Therefore I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all men. For I have not shunned to declare to you the whole counsel of God. Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood.”
Acts 20:25-28

Paul knew the end of his life was in sight. He told those present that this would be the last time they would see him. Paul knew he would soon be with the Lord. He voiced the completion of his ministry––he had faithfully preached the entire Bible, the whole counsel of God. Again, he addressed all the leaders to hold them accountable in their responsibility as overseers––to watch over God’s people. They had a charge, as shepherds, to feed the flock which Christ purchased with His own blood.

Paul told Timothy, a young minister of the Gospel under his tutorage:

For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing (2 Timothy 4:6-8).

Did you notice that Paul included us? Every one of us who look eagerly for Christ to appear shall receive a crown! But what of those who are not looking? If you know anyone who has fallen away from Christ, have a compassionate heart to go after them and encourage them back to the Lord. Time is short! We all need the grace of God.

Aim to become like family to those in the church. Genuinely care for other Christians and pray for one another. As believers, we are called to work together as a team to reach the lost.

The Early Church was in wonderment at Christ ... All they talked about was Christ. All they thought about, from morning to night, was Christ. Christ was their only reason for living, and they were more than willing to die for Him.
~A.W. Tozer~

For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!