Acts 20:19-35 records Paul’s farewell to the Elders of the church in Ephesus. Paul had ministered in this church for three years, so they had grown close. In Paul’s farewell address he looks back over his faithful ministry there. His evaluation of his ministry there can help us evaluate our current faithfulness in our place of ministry. Prayerfully read the passage, noting the following fourteen ministry keys. Ask God to help you evaluate your current ministry faithfulness in these areas. Place a mark where you think you lie on each continuum (here is a .pdf of the entire document: Shepherds Ministry Inventory).
Pride vs. Humility (v.19a)
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Complacency vs. Passion (v.19b)
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Self-protection vs. Vulnerability (v.19c)
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Caution vs. Boldness (v.20a)
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Selfishness vs. Other-focused (v.20a)
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One-dimensional vs. Adaptability (v.20a)
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Vague witness vs. Pointed witness (v.21)
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Sight vs. Faith (v.22-24)
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Possessiveness vs. Godly Separation (v.25)
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Irresponsible steward vs. Faithful completion (v.26)
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Pet topics vs. Systematic teaching (v.27)
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Convenience Ministry vs. Sacrificial Ministry (v.31)
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Covetousness vs. Contentment (v.33)
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Other-dependent vs. Self-reliant (v.34-35)
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Now spend an extended time in prayer, responding to God about the things He has shown you. Express whatever needs to be done: confession, repentance, thankfulness, praise, requests, consecration of self to Him, commitment to obedience, etc.