A Faithful Sower

“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.”

Acts 20:28/NIV

As I read the beginning of the New Testament (Bible), the first four books focus on the birth and life of Jesus Christ during His earthly ministry. His life had a humble beginning, and the life He led was not spoiled with riches of earthly value. Considering the concept of the “trinity” (God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), during the time Jesus walked on earth, He had the Father in Him, and He was the Father. Knowing this wealth, at that time, the earthly rulers would have experienced that it would be reasonable to expect that He had the same. Perhaps He came for something of greater value than gold, rubies, or pearls.

Jesus provided a lot of essential teaching that was relevant and critical at the time He spoke, as well as thousands of years later. A common message He conveyed to others involved love. He told the disciples, “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.” (John 15:12/NIV). Jesus not only told people He loved them but also demonstrated actions that also reflected His love. What a role model for followers of Jesus Christ, people who read the Bible and seek to put what has been learned into action!

In the book of Acts (actions of the apostles), Jesus has just ascended into heaven, and His disciples begin their earthly ministry without His physical presence. However, as they had accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and personal Savior, they had the Holy Spirit (manifestation of God and Jesus Christ) within them. Upon reading Acts, it is apparent the apostles who had the Holy Spirit within them went forward doing what their Master (Jesus Christ) had role modeled for them to do with many documented instances of vital teaching and miracles being performed.

As the apostles practiced what they had learned and were empowered to do, followers of Jesus Christ in the 21st century should do the same. As the apostles who walked with Jesus did what they were taught to do, so should we. The focal verse tells us we should “keep watch over ourselves and the flock” as well as be shepherds of the “church of God.” The actions and statements of followers of Jesus Christ should reflect the essence of this verse, and evidence of its importance should be observable. Our actions should reflect our words as well as love!

 Self-reflection consideration: Do I put my words into action that reflect God’s love as well as the application of what Jesus Christ told me I should do?

Many blessings to you!

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