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In Acts 20:28–31,
Paul gives this instruction to the church in Ephesus: “Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock . . . after I leave, savage wolves will come in among you . . . Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth . . .” (NIV). Why was Paul so sure “wolves” would arise from among them? What “wolves” do you need to watch out for? What measures can you put in place to keep watch over yourself and those who help you lead?
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Paul warned the Ephesian church about “wolves” arising from among them due to his understanding of human nature, past experiences in other churches, and the spiritual challenges Christians continue to face. He recognized that even believers could fall into the temptation of distorting the truth for personal gain, leading to division and strife within the church.
Today, churches face threats similar to those of the Ephesian church, such as false teachers, internal conflicts, moral failures, and cultural compromise. To guard against these dangers, churches can take proactive measures. They should emphasize sound doctrine, establish accountability structures, invest in discipleship and mentoring, maintain vigilant leadership, and foster a strong sense of community. By staying grounded in Scripture and nurturing a healthy church environment, believers can protect themselves and their congregations from the threats Paul foresaw.
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Paul understood that false prophets would attempt to prevent God’s sheep from remaining faithful. Sheep are pure and vulnerable. They require compassionate provision during the day as well as courageous protection during the night. Leaders must provide both in order to be effective. We must observe diligently at all times for any risks. The best way, I believe, is to Pray for knowledge, discernment and wisdom. God ensures that He will provide wisdom to all who ask. At times, we may be called to sacrifice our own life in order to protect God’s flock. If so, consider it a privilege.
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False prophets and false teachers had already entered the first churches. In Corinth there were many of them taking hold of the church and using Christianity for the purpose of personal gain. Paul was only sure that it would continue, and he was also sure that the improper influence of outsiders would rub off on the flock. While living Paul urged early disciples to stay faithful to the laws of God and not go after false witnesses. The epistles were written as guides, instructions, witnesses to the truth. There was no other way to God except through Christ our Lord and savior.
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What Paul was sure of is that there will be wolves that will become part of the flock that may not be truly converted and from within be a source of hostile environment for the flock. Paul was once a wolf so he is able to relate his redemptive story to what he cautioned the church; like Paul a wolf can be part of the flock as a true sheep but even true sheep of the flock must watch that they do not fall for lies and deception of wolves who seeks to devour them. We need to watch out for wolves that appear to be followers of Christ but are not, those who teach false or follow wrong doctrine. We are to keep our eyes on our Good Shepherd, to follow Him, to read the Bible, to fellowship with other believers, to pray and to be alert and watchful over our lives and those of other believers.
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He was very sure because at one point in his life he was a wolf, persons will become wolves to suite their own agenda. We need to watch out for wolves who are only here for personal gain, those that distort the truth in order to control believers. We need to ensure that Christ is being preached in the correct manner, His death, burial and resurrection, we need to constantly follow the teachings of the Bible and always search the scriptures for authenticity.
