Grievous Wolves

Acts 20:28-32, KJV

28Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.

29For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.

30Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.

31Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.

32And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.

The church is in the heart of a man. It is the belief in which one lives by. Those in a position to pastor or guide a church body must be on guard taking care of the flock God purchased with His own blood. What a great responsibility that mustn't be taken lightly. There is a great need to stay in prayer for the entire congregation as well as for the strength of oneself.

Paul mentions above that there are "grievous wolves" who seek to draw away people after their own doctrine. What a disturbing revelation, yet very true. You may have individuals with a different agenda than that of God; people who propagate to be in certain positions to draw men unto themselves. That's why it is so important that not only the pastors pray for the congregation, but that we pray for our pastors and ministers of the Gospel. And we must even pray for those who aim to distort, evade, and corrupt the truth of the Gospel.

Staying in the Word of God, asking the Holy Spirit for guidance and understanding maintains our strength to stand against the wiles of the devil.

Additional Reference: Ephesians 6:11