Blog

Hidden in the grove of trees and rock formations, the wolf watches his prey. This isn’t the first time he’s seen him, though. He’s been tracking him for miles, watching the animal get further and further from his flock. He’s weaker now. And that makes the timing perfect for the wolf to pounce.

Wolves might be beautiful creatures, but get too close, and you’ll soon see the true danger that lies within them.

Acts 21:27-29
“For I have not hesitated to proclaim to you the whole will of God. Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood. I know that after I leave, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock.”

Paul is speaking to the elders of the church at Ephesus before he travels to Jerusalem. He knows he will not see these men again and uses the time to remind them of their responsibility of leading the church, often referred to as the flock.

Jesus referred to Himself as the Good Shepherd, tending the flock and caring for them, protecting and providing for them, and willing to lay His life down for them.

And a flock of sheep has a great predator – a wolf.

Wolves may see their prey and watch them for long periods of time, but they don’t instantly grab and devour them.

They wait.

They follow them for miles and miles as they wander from their group. The further they go, the weaker they become. And that’s when the wolf strikes.

Paul uses a wolf as an illustration of evil men who will try to come into the church and cause division, stirring up trouble and separating Christians from their brothers and sisters.

He wasn’t giving instructions on how to prevent the wolves from entering. He was making sure they knew their role as leaders of the church.

Be the shepherd. Feed the sheep. Protect them. Provide what’s needed spiritually. Be willing to lay down your life for them. Love them.

While this is a directive towards pastors, it’s also a good reminder for all of us as Christians.

Be mindful, be watchful. Wolves want to come in and cause division. They are looking for the weak ones.

If we are truly following Christ, we will be close to Him, which means we will be close to other brothers and sisters. Community is needed.

Let me show you what that looks like. Go to follow.lifeword.org. Learn what it means to be a follower of Christ, walking closely with the Lord. In addition, we can help connect you to a local body of believers to strengthen you in your walk with Jesus.