Paul warns church leaders to "be alert" (Acts 20:31). What does this "alertness" look like within the church?
1. Guard against false teachers: We are to be alert and watchful for false teachers who would distort the truth of the gospel and lead people astray (Matt. 7:15-16; 2 Pet. 2:1).
2. Avoid divisive people: We are to avoid those who cause division and create dissension within the church (Rom. 16:17-18; Titus 3:10).
3. Test the spirits: We are to test the spirits and discern whether they are from God because many false prophets have gone out into the world (1 Jn. 4:1).
4. Beware of wolves in sheep's clothing: Jesus warned us to beware of false prophets who come to us in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves (Matt. 7:15).
5. Protect the flock: As shepherds of the flock, church leaders are responsible for protecting the church from those who would seek to harm it (Acts 20:28-30).
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