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Acts 20

And after the uproar was ceased, Paul called unto him the disciples, and embraced them, and departed for to go into Macedonia.

And when he had gone over those parts, and had given them much exhortation, he came into Greece,

And there abode three months. And when the Jews laid wait for him, as he was about to sail into Syria, he purposed to return through Macedonia.

And there accompanied him into Asia Sopater of Berea; and of the Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus; and Gaius of Derbe, and Timotheus; and of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus.

These going before tarried for us at Troas.

And we sailed away from Philippi after the days of unleavened bread, and came unto them to Troas in five days; where we abode seven days.

And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight.

And there were many lights in the upper chamber, where they were gathered together.

And there sat in a window a certain young man named Eutychus, being fallen into a deep sleep: and as Paul was long preaching, he sunk down with sleep, and fell down from the third loft, and was taken up dead.

And Paul went down, and fell on him, and embracing him said, Trouble not yourselves; for his life is in him.

When he therefore was come up again, and had broken bread, and eaten, and talked a long while, even till break of day, so he departed.

And they brought the young man alive, and were not a little comforted.

And we went before to ship, and sailed unto Assos, there intending to take in Paul: for so had he appointed, minding himself to go afoot.

And when he met with us at Assos, we took him in, and came to Mitylene.

And we sailed thence, and came the next day over against Chios; and the next day we arrived at Samos, and tarried at Trogyllium; and the next day we came to Miletus.

For Paul had determined to sail by Ephesus, because he would not spend the time in Asia: for he hasted, if it were possible for him, to be at Jerusalem the day of Pentecost.

And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the church.

And when they were come to him, he said unto them, Ye know, from the first day that I came into Asia, after what manner I have been with you at all seasons,

Serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and temptations, which befell me by the lying in wait of the Jews:

And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have shewed you, and have taught you publickly, and from house to house,

Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.

And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there:

Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me.

But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.

And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more.

Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men.

For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God.

Take 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.

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

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

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

And 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.

I have coveted no man's silver, or gold, or apparel.

Yea, ye yourselves know, that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me.

I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.

And when he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all.

And they all wept sore, and fell on Paul's neck, and kissed him,

Sorrowing most of all for the words which he spake, that they should see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship.

What does Acts 20:1 mean?

Explanation

Acts 20:1 speaks about the Apostle Paul's actions after a turbulent time in Ephesus, wherein a riot concerning the craftsman of Artemis's silver shrines took place (as described in Acts 19:23-41).

Here, Paul takes the time to meet with his disciples, showing them affection through his embrace, before setting out on a journey to Macedonia.

The verse illustrates Paul's pastoral concern and his commitment to the believers, despite having faced opposition and possibly being in danger.

The embrace signifies comfort, support, and a farewell gesture as he prepares to leave Ephesus, where he had spent substantial time teaching and building the church.

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Historical Context

This verse is set in the timeframe of Paul’s missionary journeys, specifically his third missionary journey.

Ephesus was an important trade center in the Roman Empire and the location of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

The historical context includes the economic threat that Paul's preaching posed to artisans who made a living selling religious artifacts, which incited a riot.

The city was a melting pot of Greco-Roman and Eastern traditions, and Paul's message of a monotheistic Christianity clashed with the polytheistic and commerce-centric values of the local populace.

Theological Insights

Different theological viewpoints can be drawn from this verse.

From a Christian perspective, Paul's actions demonstrate the leadership quality of showing love and care for fellow believers.

It also reflects the Christian principle of perseverance in ministry despite trials and hardships.

For some theologians, the verse is a testament to the mobility and adaptability of the early Christian mission, emphasizing the strategic movement from city to city to spread the gospel.

Practical Applications

This verse can inspire individuals to maintain personal relationships and affirm others with acts of kindness, such as embracing friends or loved ones during times of departure or distress.

For Christian leaders and pastors, it exemplifies the importance of pastoral care, even when facing one's own challenges.

It encourages the faithful to continue their work with courage and diligence and to support each other in communities of faith.

Cross-References

Acts 19:23-41 - The account of the riot in Ephesus that leads up to Paul's departure.
Acts 16:9 - Earlier in his journeys, Paul had a vision that led him to Macedonia, establishing it as an important area for his missionary work.
Acts 18:23 - Describes another instance when Paul travels throughout the region of Galatia and Phrygia, strengthening the disciples.

Language Study

Key words in Acts 20:1 from the original Greek include:

"called" (προσκαλεσάμενος proskalesamenos): To summon or invite.
"disciples" (μαθητάς mathētas): Learners or followers, term used for adherents of Jesus.
"embraced" (ἀσπασάμενος aspasamenos): To greet warmly, often involving physical touch such as a hug or embrace.
"departed" (ἐξῆλθεν exēlthen): To go out or leave.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The act of embracing as a part of farewells and greetings was common in many ancient cultures, including Greco-Roman and Jewish societies.

Religious movements of the time often involved close-knit communities, and the relationship between a leader and his disciples can be compared to other philosophical schools in the Hellenistic period where a teacher's affection and personal care for students were valued.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientific perspectives might offer insights into the psychological benefits of embracing and human touch as they relate to stress relief and bonding, relevant to Paul's action of embracing his disciples.

However, the verse itself does not directly intersect with modern scientific understandings in a way that is significant enough to warrant a specialized discussion.

commentaries

Commentators have interpreted this verse as reflective of Paul's pastoral heart and his selfless concern for the believers, noting that despite the tumultuous event, he seeks to ensure the disciples are encouraged before he leaves.

John Calvin speaks of Paul's desire to strengthen and console the believers.

Matthew Henry emphasizes the significance of Paul's departure after the uproar, signaling that his work there was done and he was guided by the Spirit to carry on elsewhere.

Adam Clarke notes the demonstration of tender affection which would serve to bind the disciples' hearts to Paul and the work of the ministry.

Acts 20

Acts 20

What does Acts 20:1 mean?

Explanation

Top Rated Acts Books

Historical Context

Theological Insights

Practical Applications

Cross-References

Language Study

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Scientific Perspectives

commentaries

Want more context?

What does Acts 20:1 mean?

Explanation

Top Rated Acts Books

Historical Context

Theological Insights

Practical Applications

Cross-References

Language Study

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Scientific Perspectives

commentaries

Want more context?