Acts 20:28

Keep watch over yourselves and the entire flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which He purchased with His own blood.

Study Bible

Keep watch over yourselves
This phrase emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and vigilance in spiritual leadership. The Greek word for "keep watch" is "prosechō," which means to pay attention or be cautious. Leaders are called to maintain their own spiritual health and integrity, recognizing that their personal walk with God directly impacts their ability to lead others. This self-examination is crucial, as it ensures that they are not leading from a place of hypocrisy or moral failure.

and the entire flock
The "flock" refers to the community of believers, drawing on the pastoral imagery of shepherding. The Greek word "poimnion" is used here, which is often associated with the care and guidance of sheep. This metaphor highlights the vulnerability and dependence of the congregation on their leaders for spiritual nourishment and protection. Historically, shepherds were responsible for the safety and well-being of their sheep, a role that spiritual leaders are called to emulate in their care for the church.

of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers
The term "overseers" is translated from the Greek "episkopos," which means a guardian or superintendent. This indicates a divinely appointed role, as it is the Holy Spirit who assigns this responsibility. The involvement of the Holy Spirit underscores the sacredness and divine authority of the leadership position. Leaders are not self-appointed but are placed by God to fulfill His purposes within the church.

Be shepherds of the church of God
"Be shepherds" translates the Greek word "poimainō," which means to tend or to feed. This command calls leaders to nurture and guide the church, ensuring that the spiritual needs of the congregation are met. The "church of God" signifies the community of believers as belonging to God, emphasizing the sacred trust given to leaders. This phrase reminds leaders that their primary duty is to serve and protect the spiritual well-being of God's people.

which He purchased with His own blood
This powerful statement highlights the immense value and cost of the church. The Greek word for "purchased" is "peripoieō," meaning to acquire or obtain. The reference to "His own blood" points to the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ, underscoring the profound love and commitment God has for His church. This phrase serves as a sobering reminder to leaders of the gravity and responsibility of their role, as they are caring for a community that God Himself has redeemed at the highest price.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
The speaker of this verse, Paul is addressing the Ephesian elders in Miletus, providing them with final instructions and warnings as he prepares to leave them.

2. Ephesian Elders
Leaders of the church in Ephesus, responsible for the spiritual oversight and care of the congregation.

3. Holy Spirit
The divine person who appoints and empowers the elders as overseers of the church.

4. Church of God
The community of believers, described as a flock, emphasizing their need for guidance and protection.

5. Miletus
The location where Paul delivers his farewell speech to the Ephesian elders.

Teaching Points

The Role of Overseers
Elders and leaders in the church are appointed by the Holy Spirit and are responsible for the spiritual well-being of the congregation.

Leadership in the church is a divine calling that requires vigilance and dedication.

The Value of the Church
The church is precious, having been purchased with the blood of Christ. This underscores the immense value God places on His people.

Leaders should recognize the sacredness of their responsibility in caring for the church.

Spiritual Vigilance
Leaders must first keep watch over their own spiritual lives to effectively shepherd others.

Personal holiness and integrity are essential for those in positions of spiritual authority.

Sacrificial Leadership
Just as Christ sacrificed for the church, leaders are called to serve selflessly, prioritizing the needs of the flock over their own.

Dependence on the Holy Spirit
The empowerment and guidance of the Holy Spirit are crucial for fulfilling the role of an overseer.

Leaders should seek the Spirit’s wisdom and strength in their ministry.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the church as "purchased with His own blood" impact your view of its value and your role within it?

2. In what ways can church leaders today ensure they are keeping watch over themselves and their congregations?

3. How does the concept of shepherding in Acts 20:28 relate to Jesus’ teachings in John 10 about the Good Shepherd?

4. What practical steps can you take to support and pray for the leaders in your church, recognizing their God-given responsibility?

5. How can you apply the principle of sacrificial leadership in your own life, whether in the church, your family, or your workplace?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Peter 5:2-3
This passage also speaks to the role of shepherds, urging them to care for the flock willingly and eagerly, not lording over them but being examples to the flock.

John 10:11
Jesus describes Himself as the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for the sheep, paralleling the sacrificial nature of leadership and the purchase of the church with His blood.

Hebrews 13:20-21
Refers to Jesus as the great Shepherd of the sheep, emphasizing His role in equipping believers for every good work.