Following is the summary of an exposition of Acts 20:18-35 by Jay.M.Nair, which he did for an upcoming eBook on Leadership.
The Characteristics of a Spiritual Father
Lessons Learnt From Acts 20:18-35
1. A spiritual father is an example to his children. (v.18)
2. A spiritual father humbles himself before the Lord, by remaining faithful in his service to the children, accepting all trials he has to face in being their servant. (v.19)
3. A spiritual father never shrinks the message of God, but faithfully proclaims that which is beneficial for his children. (v.20)
4. A spiritual father does not show partiality by changing his message based on the crowd. (v.21)
5. A spiritual father is innocent of the blood of all his children, for he shows no hesitation in declaring the whole counsel of God and in giving them prophetic warnings. (v.26,31)
6. A spiritual father has a strong sense of God's calling in his life that he does not consider his life worthy, apart from finishing the race - his personal pilgrimage onto Christ-likeness, and completing the task given by the Lord – his ministry of testifying to the gospel of God's grace. (v.24)
7. A spiritual father works hard to help the weak and never covets anything from anyone- honour, gold, silver or clothing; but always proclaims with his life and service that 'it is more blessed to give than to receive'. (v.35)
