Hopeful Goodbyes: Embracing Change in Christ

Summary

### Summary

This week has been challenging as we bid farewell to our beloved associate pastor, Ryan Bradley, and his wife, Kate, who have been integral to our church community. Reflecting on their departure, I was led to Acts 20, where Paul bids a heartfelt goodbye to the Ephesian elders. This passage is a poignant reminder that gospel goodbyes, though filled with tears and tenderness, are ultimately hopeful because of our eternal fellowship in Christ.

Paul's third missionary journey, which took him from Antioch to Ephesus and beyond, is a testament to his dedication and the deep relationships he formed. Despite severe testing and opposition, Paul remained steadfast, preaching publicly and from house to house, urging both Jews and Gentiles to turn to God in repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. His life was a model of humility, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to the gospel.

As Paul prepared to leave, he called the Ephesian elders to meet him in Miletus, where he delivered a heartfelt farewell. He reminded them of his example, his dedication to preaching the whole will of God, and the importance of shepherding the church, which was bought with Christ's blood. Paul’s words resonate deeply as we consider Ryan and Kate's departure. Their ministry has been marked by a similar dedication and love for the church.

Paul's journey was fraught with hardships, yet he remained committed because he considered his life worth nothing compared to the task of testifying to the good news of God's grace. This is a powerful reminder for us all: the call to follow Christ is a call to die to self and live for Him. It’s a call to go wherever He leads, no matter the cost.

As we send off Ryan and Kate, we are reminded that the church is not confined to one place. It is meant to be scattered, expanding, and growing. The Bradleys' move to Roy City is bittersweet, but it is part of God's plan to spread His love and grace. We trust that God will continue to guide and provide for our church as we enter this new season.

### Key Takeaways

1. Gospel Goodbyes: Gospel goodbyes, like Paul's farewell to the Ephesian elders, are filled with tears and tenderness but are ultimately hopeful because of our eternal fellowship in Christ. These goodbyes remind us that our relationships in Christ are eternal, even when we part ways temporarily. [28:34]

2. Paul's Example of Dedication: Paul's unwavering commitment to preaching the gospel, despite severe testing and opposition, serves as a powerful example for us. His life was marked by humility, perseverance, and a relentless focus on sharing the good news of Jesus Christ. We are called to follow his example, preaching the gospel in all circumstances. [33:17]

3. The Call to Die to Self: Following Christ is a call to die to self. This means surrendering our own desires and ambitions to live fully for Him. Paul considered his life worth nothing compared to the task of testifying to God's grace. We are challenged to adopt this same mindset, prioritizing our mission in Christ above all else. [37:55]

4. Shepherding the Church: Paul’s charge to the Ephesian elders to shepherd the church, which was bought with Christ's blood, underscores the sacred responsibility of church leaders. This call extends to all believers, reminding us to care for and protect the flock, ensuring that we lead with integrity, humility, and dedication. [42:09]

5. The Church's Mission: The church is meant to be scattered, expanding, and growing. The Bradleys' move to Roy City is a part of this mission. The local church, when functioning as it should, is the hope of the world, building bridges, healing the hurting, and bringing freedom through the Holy Spirit. We are called to be a part of this dynamic, ever-expanding mission. [53:44]

### YouTube Chapters

[0:00] - Welcome
[28:34] - Reflecting on Goodbyes
[29:40] - Paul's Third Missionary Journey
[30:48] - Paul's Collection for Jerusalem
[31:41] - Meeting in Miletus
[32:21] - Paul's Farewell Speech
[33:17] - Paul's Example of Perseverance
[34:08] - Preaching Publicly and House to House
[34:57] - Ryan and Kate's Ministry
[35:43] - Facing Hardships
[37:04] - The Call to Die to Self
[37:55] - Paul's Life Verse
[39:33] - Ryan's Life Verse
[40:13] - Paul's Final Words
[41:33] - Proclaiming the Whole Will of God
[42:09] - Shepherding the Church
[43:40] - Warning of Savage Wolves
[45:01] - Paul's Hard Work and Generosity
[46:17] - Paul's Final Prayer
[47:16] - Eternal Reunion in Christ
[48:06] - Examples to the Flock
[49:09] - The Crown of Glory
[49:35] - Following the Shepherd
[50:23] - The Call to Die to Self
[52:00] - The Power of the Local Church
[53:44] - The Church's Mission
[54:15] - The Church's Eternal Purpose
[55:22] - Persecution and Church Growth
[56:04] - The Call to Repent and Believe
[57:10] - Remembering Christ's Sacrifice
[58:40] - The Call to Die
[59:07] - The Call to Follow Christ
[01:00:07] - Sending and Commissioning
[01:05:54] - Praying for Summer Rec
[01:06:19] - Uganda Mission Team
[01:07:29] - Praying for Uganda Team
[01:08:01] - Farewell to the Bradleys
[01:17:32] - Blessing the Bradleys
[01:18:45] - Final Prayer

Study Guide

### Bible Study Discussion Guide

#### Bible Reading
1. Acts 20:17-38
2. 1 Peter 5:2-4

#### Observation Questions
1. What were the key elements of Paul's farewell speech to the Ephesian elders in Acts 20? [32:21]
2. How did Paul describe his ministry and the challenges he faced during his time with the Ephesians? [33:17]
3. What specific instructions did Paul give to the Ephesian elders regarding their responsibilities? [42:09]
4. How did Paul view his own life and mission according to Acts 20:24? [37:55]

#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Paul emphasized humility, perseverance, and preaching the whole will of God in his farewell speech? [33:17]
2. How does Paul's view of his life as "worth nothing" except for completing his mission challenge our modern understanding of success and purpose? [37:55]
3. What does it mean to "shepherd the church of God, which he bought with his own blood," and how does this responsibility extend to all believers? [42:09]
4. How can the concept of "gospel goodbyes" filled with hope and eternal fellowship in Christ provide comfort during times of transition and loss? [28:34]

#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you had to say a difficult goodbye. How did your faith in eternal fellowship in Christ help you cope with that transition? [28:34]
2. Paul faced severe testing and opposition but remained steadfast in his mission. What are some challenges you face in your own ministry or daily life, and how can you draw strength from Paul's example? [33:17]
3. Paul considered his life worth nothing compared to the task of testifying to God's grace. What personal ambitions or desires might you need to surrender to fully live for Christ? [37:55]
4. How can you actively participate in shepherding and caring for your church community, even if you are not in a formal leadership position? [42:09]
5. The Bradleys' move to Roy City is part of God's plan to spread His love and grace. How can you support and pray for those in your church who are called to new missions or ministries? [53:44]
6. Paul warned the Ephesian elders about "savage wolves" that would come to distort the truth. How can you stay vigilant and protect your faith community from false teachings and divisions? [43:40]
7. The local church is described as the hope of the world, building bridges and bringing freedom through the Holy Spirit. What specific actions can you take to contribute to this mission in your own community? [52:00]

Devotional

Day 1: Eternal Fellowship in Christ
Reflecting on the departure of beloved members of our church community, we are reminded of the concept of "gospel goodbyes." These farewells, though filled with tears and tenderness, are ultimately hopeful because of our eternal fellowship in Christ. Just as Paul bid a heartfelt goodbye to the Ephesian elders in Acts 20, we too can find comfort in knowing that our relationships in Christ are eternal, even when we part ways temporarily. This perspective helps us to see beyond the immediate sorrow and embrace the hope of eternal reunion. [28:34]

Acts 20:36-38 (ESV): "And when he had said these things, he knelt down and prayed with them all. And there was much weeping on the part of all; they embraced Paul and kissed him, being sorrowful most of all because of the word he had spoken, that they would not see his face again. And they accompanied him to the ship."

Reflection: Think of someone you have recently said goodbye to or will soon. How can you find hope and comfort in the promise of eternal fellowship in Christ?

Day 2: Unwavering Commitment to the Gospel
Paul's life serves as a powerful example of unwavering commitment to preaching the gospel, despite severe testing and opposition. His dedication, humility, and perseverance are qualities that we are called to emulate. Paul preached publicly and from house to house, urging both Jews and Gentiles to turn to God in repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. This relentless focus on sharing the good news of Jesus Christ is a reminder for us to remain steadfast in our mission, regardless of the circumstances we face. [33:17]

2 Timothy 4:2 (ESV): "Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching."

Reflection: In what ways can you demonstrate unwavering commitment to sharing the gospel in your daily life, even when faced with challenges or opposition?

Day 3: Surrendering to Christ
Following Christ is a call to die to self, surrendering our own desires and ambitions to live fully for Him. Paul considered his life worth nothing compared to the task of testifying to God's grace. This mindset challenges us to prioritize our mission in Christ above all else, embracing the call to go wherever He leads, no matter the cost. It is a call to live a life of selflessness and dedication to the gospel, trusting that God's plan is greater than our own. [37:55]

Galatians 2:20 (ESV): "I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you find yourself holding back from surrendering to Jesus? What would surrendering this area to Him actually look like in terms of daily habits?

Day 4: Shepherding with Integrity
Paul’s charge to the Ephesian elders to shepherd the church, which was bought with Christ's blood, underscores the sacred responsibility of church leaders. This call extends to all believers, reminding us to care for and protect the flock, ensuring that we lead with integrity, humility, and dedication. As we reflect on this responsibility, we are reminded of the importance of nurturing and guiding others in their faith journey, just as Paul did. [42:09]

1 Peter 5:2-3 (ESV): "Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock."

Reflection: How can you actively participate in shepherding and caring for others in your church community, demonstrating integrity and humility in your actions?

Day 5: The Church's Expanding Mission
The church is meant to be scattered, expanding, and growing. The move of church members to new locations, like the Bradleys' move to Roy City, is part of God's plan to spread His love and grace. The local church, when functioning as it should, is the hope of the world, building bridges, healing the hurting, and bringing freedom through the Holy Spirit. We are called to be a part of this dynamic, ever-expanding mission, trusting that God will continue to guide and provide for His church. [53:44]

Acts 1:8 (ESV): "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."

Reflection: How can you contribute to the mission of the church in your local community and beyond, helping to spread God's love and grace to those around you?

Quotes

### Quotes for Outreach

1. "The call to follow Christ is ultimately a call to die to self. It's bigger than a set of beliefs. It's bigger than a religious system. It's bigger than an understanding of the world. It's a call to die to self. I don't know how many dead people you've been around. I've been around my fair share. They don't feel a lot. They don't feel pride or guilt or shame. They don't feel embarrassed. They don't feel like, they're dead. And when we die to ourself and we are raised with Christ and living for Christ, then when God says go, it's easier than when we are about ourselves." [51:23]( | | )

2. "The beauty of the local church is like there's nothing like it when it's working. The local church, when it's working, it's the hope of the world, man. It's indescribable. Its power is breathtaking. Its potential is unlimited. When people are surrendered, submitted to Jesus, dying to self and living for Christ and listening and hearing and obeying and following, saying, wherever you say, God, I don't care what you call me to do, how much you call me to give, what you call me to lay down, I'll do it." [52:00]( | | )

3. "If you've never given your life to Jesus, I would offer you a radically higher standard than just believing, than even just repenting, which is more than stopping an action. I will repent of this thing. It's a change of mind. It's a change of direction. It's you repent and believe. You repent from this and you turn to this. You stop listening to this master. There's no void. You go straight to this master and you follow. You follow Jesus." [56:04]( | | )

4. "The church, when it's living and functioning like it should, man, it's building bridges to those that have been disenfranchised and forgotten or rejected. The church ushers in the Spirit through sinners like ourselves and the Holy Spirit begins to break addictions and chains and bring freedom and offer hope. And it's not dependent upon a location." [53:06]( | | )

5. "Jesus says, hey, you've been doing good things, but you're going to do even better things when Holy Spirit comes. Because the Holy Spirit allows, Jesus could just be God on the earth in one spot, but because of the Holy Spirit, it's God on the earth in all of us, in Christ." [53:44]( | | )

### Quotes for Members

1. "Now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there, I only know that in every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me. Our job, our task is to take the Word, and as we're in the Word, get the Word in us. And then we ask ourselves, would I go? Am I willing? Am I that committed to the call, that committed to Christ, that if God told me, you're going to move, not just move, not just say goodbye to your family and your friends and what you've known and loved for 12 years, but you're going to go to a place where prison and hardships await, do you get on the boat?" [37:04]( | | )

2. "However, I consider my life worth nothing to me. My only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me. And the task of testifying to the good news of God's grace. When the coach says, go play this position, you go and play that position. Whatever the coach says, when you're on the team, you go. That's how Paul viewed his relationship with Jesus. Now, compelled by the spirit, coach said, go play this position. I don't care how hard it is, how hot it is, how much gear, how uncomfortable, how you're squatting the whole time, how your back's sore, how you're going to get hit and take balls off the face and everywhere else. Coach says it, you go." [37:55]( | | )

3. "Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock by which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood. Brothers and sisters, I'd be remiss. I'd be in error. I'd be sinning if I did not remind ourselves that Baruch Church, an expression of the Catholic, big C, global, not Roman Catholic, Catholic global church, this expression is bought by the blood of Jesus. Called into existence, through the Holy Spirit, by Jesus. It's not Joel's church. The sign doesn't say that. It's not Ryan's church. And so we are so much more than the overseers, the leaders, the pastors, the people that tend the flock." [42:09]( | | )

4. "I know that after I leave, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. Even from your own number, men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them. It's amazing the lies the enemy will launch upon us if we'll believe them. And he's warning them, hey, get ready. Discouragement, a little division, little dissension. It's coming. Like wolves are going to come in. And that's why shepherds rise up. That's why leaders rise up." [43:40]( | | )

5. "The pain of temporary partings is overshadowed by the promise of eternal reunion in Christ. We need to remember that wherever, when God moves somebody on, whether it's by death or a move or a call or whatever, it's always temporary for us in Christ because we will be reunited. We will be together again. Someday it's happening. And so we hang on to that. We cling to that truth." [47:16]( | | )

Chatbot

Transcript

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