At a certain point in Paul's ministry, especially when he understood that he would no longer see the brothers of the various churches he helped to plant, the apostle resolved to call the elders of Ephesus to give them direction. His words in this discourse recorded by Luke in Acts 20: 35, bring profound teachings on the mission of the Church. We know that in order to have a Pauline Missiology one must search for his life and work in Acts and in his epistles. However, it surprises me how we can learn succinct and profound teachings in these farewell words .
The first aspect of the Church's mission is to preach the gospel. In the face of these leaders Paul says that he "preached," "taught," "testified" to the gospel of the Kingdom, which is the same gospel of Jesus; good news from God for the salvation of sinners). We learn from the great missionary that we are to preach "the whole purpose of God" (v.27). Reminding us that the gospel can not be quartered, overvalued in some doctrines and emptied in others.
Preaching requires a call to "repentance toward God and faith in our Lord Jesus" (v.21). The answer to the call is that there will be acceptance on the part of many, but also rejection, tribulation, imprisonment and even death for of the testimony of Jesus. Paul was persecuted by both Jews and Gentiles.
This saving Gospel is to be preached to all people (Jews and Gentiles) and everywhere ("publicly and also from house to house" - v. 20). For his ministry of "witnessing to the grace of God" (v. 24) with faithfulness and perseverance, is that the apostle summons priests or bishops (pastors) - leaders with a pastoral function - to care for the flock purchased with the blood of God (v. 28). It is part of the priestly care to be alert against the false teachings of the false teachers who would arise from among the church. Pastors-elders must be vigilant in the detection and correction of errors (v.31).
How did Paul accomplish his apostolate (in the missionary, doctrinal, and pastoral aspects)? "Humility, tears and trials" (v.19). Paul was not romantic about ministry. He knew what he expected of people. Many would receive the Word with joy, but others would react with vehemence and persecution. The work of Christ requires dedication and self-denial. Seeing also that greed and avarice do not take care of the heart (v.33-34). Paul also emphasizes the social side , when he speaks of helping the needy (v.35), for the gospel is for the whole person (soul and body). Remember the words of the Lord Jesus himself: It is more blessed to give than to receive (v.35).
While emphasizing the human role in the Great Commission of preaching the gospel to every creature, baptizing converts and teaching to keep the Word, we can not forget that salvation is grace. It is only possible by the sovereign, elective and loving will of God. Therefore, the great pioneer of the gospel prayed commending his brothers "to the Lord and to the word of his grace" (v.32). For Jesus himself had already said that he himself would build his Church. He alone "has the power to to build you up, and to give an inheritance among all them that are sanctified "(v.32, see also Mt 16.18).
God give constant grace to the saved and sanctified by Him to fulfill their missionary role of being faithful in proclaiming the gospel and planting new churches. Not forgetting that the Church is supportive. The Triune God is the chief author in the salvation of sinners. Summarized form: God the Father chooses, God the Son dies for the chosen, God the Holy Spirit applies the work of Christ. The Church is privileged to participate as a witness of Christ.
The Lord help us to be found faithful. To Him all glory!
Robson Rosa Santana
Pastor of the Presbyterian Church of Brazil
