"The Measure of a Ministry"
Acts 20:17-38
Introduction: Let's see what is revealed in the text:
I. Paul's Tenure
Two things standout; First, is his longevity and second is his labor. Paul spent more time in Asia Minor and Ephesus in particular than any other place of ministry. Verse 31 tells us that he spent three years there. It was also a time of intense labor. He evangelized the entire city and the province it was located in. It started from the first day to the last; it was night and day (31), and from house to house (20) Consistency was the hallmark of his ministry to these churches. He was faithful, diligent and serious about the work of the ministry that he had been called to.
II. Paul's Temperment
His ministry was characterized by humility in the face of trials and a heartfelt love for the people. I suspect that Paul was the kind of minister who was uncomfortable when he was praised by others. That's a good way for all of us to be. Jesus taught that true greatness was to be found in the lives of the "meek and lowly," and that, "the way up was down," in service for God and others. I always think of the acrostic "JOY." Jesus first, others second and you last!
III. Paul's Testimony
He gave everything he had that he thought would be profitable to them. He shewed, taught, testified, preached, declared, warned and had, "...not shunned to declare the whole counsel of God." For Paul, the Gospel of Christ was the central thing, the epicenter of his life and work. He declared it, defined it, defended it and died for it. The Gospel should be the center of all that we do today. Out worship, our walk, our work and our witness should be about the Gospel for it is, "the power of God unto salvation..."
IV. Paul's Tears
A true servant of the Lord will have a heart for the people he serves and it will be "heartfelt." Three times Paul mentions tears; First, tears related to his service in v. 19; second, tears related to their safety in v. 31, and tears related to separation in vs 36-38.
Acts 20:36 And when he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all. 37 And they all wept sore, and fell on Paul's neck, and kissed him, 38 Sorrowing most of all for the words which he spake, that they should see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship.
