Week 27 | Acts 20:28-32
Getting to Know You
Share about an experience when you were either misled by someone or convinced to do something that you later found out to be wrong.
Digging Deeper
1. Read Proverbs 4:23, Acts 20:28, and 1 Timothy 4:16. Why is it essential for leaders to emphasize self-watch before flock-watch? Read Exodus 18:24-26, 1 Samuel 16:1, John 15:16, Ephesians 4:11-13, and Titus 1:5. What is the significance that God and other leaders appoint leaders? In what ways can it be said we are all called to leadership?
2. Read Ezekiel 34:1-10, Matthew 7:15-19, Acts 8:9-24, Acts 20:28-30 and 2 Peter 2:1-3. Discuss the internal and external threats to the church in these passages. How can we recognize the “wolves” and protect ourselves? What are some dangerous teachings floating around today?
3. Read Acts 20:31-38, 1 Corinthians 9:19-27, and Colossians 1:9. What are some characteristics of Paul that make him such an effective leader? Contrast the character of Paul with that of the false teachers. What can believers do to grow in godly character?
Taking It Home
How does your understanding of the church as a “flock” or “family” influence the way you view the church? What is one specific way you can help protect, encourage, or strengthen someone in your church community this week?
Share about an experience when you were either misled by someone or convinced to do something that you later found out to be wrong.
Digging Deeper
1. Read Proverbs 4:23, Acts 20:28, and 1 Timothy 4:16. Why is it essential for leaders to emphasize self-watch before flock-watch? Read Exodus 18:24-26, 1 Samuel 16:1, John 15:16, Ephesians 4:11-13, and Titus 1:5. What is the significance that God and other leaders appoint leaders? In what ways can it be said we are all called to leadership?
2. Read Ezekiel 34:1-10, Matthew 7:15-19, Acts 8:9-24, Acts 20:28-30 and 2 Peter 2:1-3. Discuss the internal and external threats to the church in these passages. How can we recognize the “wolves” and protect ourselves? What are some dangerous teachings floating around today?
3. Read Acts 20:31-38, 1 Corinthians 9:19-27, and Colossians 1:9. What are some characteristics of Paul that make him such an effective leader? Contrast the character of Paul with that of the false teachers. What can believers do to grow in godly character?
Taking It Home
How does your understanding of the church as a “flock” or “family” influence the way you view the church? What is one specific way you can help protect, encourage, or strengthen someone in your church community this week?