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In Acts 20:28–31, <note to="" lt:="" please="" hyperlink="" or="" add="" hover-over="" verse=""> 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?</note>
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He was sure of it because there are always predators roaming about attempting to capture prey. In our modern era we have all kinds of random people that can post to the internet and pretend they have qualifications that they do not have. I have personally known one that got bolder and bolder in their fakery. Being part of a local community church and meeting other believers weekly can help keep us from falling into traps.
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Paul states that as a shepherd, you may become a wolf. “He was an expert on the environment filled with predators that sometimes, becomes part of the predator.Paul was a wolf before he converted into christian. He wants to make sure the Ephesus protect their flock and their church from any false intruders.
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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.