In Jesus' final public teaching in the Gospel of John (10:22-42), the people of Jerusalem tried to pin him down. They wanted him to declare openly who he was. In keeping with his indirect public style, Jesus pointed them to his words and works. He also boldly declared, "I and the Father are one." This statement sent them looking for rocks to stone him, since they thought he was a man who made himself out to be God. They grasped that he claimed identity with God, but they got things exactly backwards. (sermon notes)
In his parting speech to the Ephesian elders, Paul showed with his actions and words what makes for a faithful shepherd in God's beloved...
In two more cities, Paul and Barnabas preached the gospel boldly, which resulted in many new believers and violent opposition.
If we invest in making disciples, our lives become bound up with theirs to die and live together.
