The second Olivet Leadership Institute (OLI) Leadership Training of the year concluded on May 26, 2025, with a message from Acts 20:17-31 that urged trainees to embrace the calling of being shepherds of the church of God, “which He bought with His own blood”. The closing reflection drew from Apostle Paul’s farewell to the elders of the Ephesian church, highlighting the weight and responsibility of spiritual leadership.
The training reaffirmed OLI’s vision of raising Christ-like leaders marked by humility, character, and love. The trainees were reminded that shepherding is not a personal choice but a calling given through the Holy Spirit. While none are qualified by their own strength, God’s grace makes them sufficient, and His calling is irrevocable. Even in moments of weakness or failure, they were encouraged to remember that God’s decision to choose them is unshaken.
Central to the message was Apostle Paul’s exhortation to keep watch over oneself before caring for others. The trainees were urged to remain rooted in their relationship with God, understanding that the church is not an ordinary institution but a community purchased with the blood of Christ. This truth, they were told, should cultivate humility and reverence in service.
Apostle Paul’s example of serving “with humility and tears” was also emphasized as a model for leadership. Humility acknowledges complete dependence on God, while tears reflect genuine love and burden for the flock. A true shepherd, the trainees were reminded, does not serve merely out of duty but with deep compassion and intercession for God’s people, especially in times of struggle or danger.
The trainees were also cautioned that the real test of leadership lies beyond the training itself. The mission field will bring spiritual battles, doubts, and challenges, but these should be seen as opportunities to grow in faith. Just as the apostles were led by the Holy Spirit in Acts, leaders today must choose to walk with Him daily, trusting that God’s faithfulness will sustain them in every situation.
Despite feelings of inadequacy, the trainees were encouraged to cling to God’s grace, which is greater than any weakness. Echoing Hebrews 11:6, they were reminded that God rewards those who earnestly seek Him, and He provides strength to continue the mission.
The conclusion of this 5-day training was framed not as an end, but the beginning of a lifelong journey of shepherding. The trainees were sent out with the charge to live out their calling with humility, faith, and perseverance, always remembering that the people they serve were bought at the highest price — the blood of Christ.