When we are leaving special friends, for what may be the last time, we want to impart our concern for them. That was the Apostle Paul’s desire as he was departing from the elders of the church at Ephesus. As Paul prepared them for ministry in his absence, he did not minimize the difficulties of ministry:

Be on guard for yourselves and for 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. I know that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; and from among your own selves men will arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after them. Therefore be on the alert, remembering that night and day for a period of three years I did not cease to admonish each one with tears. And now I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and to give you the inheritance among all those who are sanctified. (Acts 20:28-32)

God must be the north star in all aspects of our lives. If our motivation to serve others is based upon our love for people, it may wane as we are treated unjustly; however, if our motivation is based upon our dedication to God it does not matter how untoward the circumstances may be.

Paul commended them to the word of His grace. As we read and reflect upon God’s word, it can transform our lives:

Therefore, putting aside all filthiness and all that remains of wickedness, in humility receive the word implanted, which is able to save your souls. (James 1:21)

Grace is God’s unmerited favor that is not earned, but is freely given. The phrase, is able, is in the present tense and it signifies God’s inherent power that is continually sanctifying us.

God’s word is indispensable in building us up. The phrase, build up, is a compound word that literally means to construct or erect a dwelling. It is also used metaphorically to build us up spiritually with the intent of edification. God’s word not only edifies us, but it enables us to appropriate our spiritual inheritance.

The word sanctified refers to that which is set apart for God as opposed to that which is common. This word is in the perfect tense that refers to an action in the past, but has ongoing effects. This word has three distinct shades of meaning. Believers have been sanctified – this is referred to as justification in which we are free from the penalty of sin. Believers are being sanctified which is a life long journey as we can experience freedom from the power of sin. One day we will be completely sanctified and free from the presence of sin.

Associate Pastor – Discipleship.  The Church at LifePark

Professor of Discipleship, Columbia International University

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