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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 20:18 mean?

Explanation

Acts 20:18 presents the Apostle Paul speaking to the elders of the church in Ephesus. Paul is on his way to Jerusalem and has stopped in Miletus, where he has called the Ephesian elders to come and meet him.

This verse introduces Paul's farewell speech, which serves as a reflection on his time spent in the province of Asia (what is now western Turkey).

Paul emphasizes his consistent behavior and service among the Ephesian believers from the very first day he arrived.

He is reminding them of his example of Christian living and ministry.

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Historical Context

The Book of Acts, authored by Luke, documents the early history of the Christian church.

Acts 20:18 falls within the context of Paul's third missionary journey.

Paul spent a significant amount of time in the region of Asia Minor, particularly in the city of Ephesus, where he had a successful ministry for about three years, as recorded in Acts 19-20.

The historical context here is rooted in the first-century Mediterranean world when Christianity was spread by missionaries like Paul through ports and urban centers of the Roman Empire.

Theological Insights

This verse reflects the importance of personal integrity and consistent Christian behavior in leadership.

In theological discussions, this might emphasize the example set by church leaders for their congregations.

Paul's lifestyle among the Ephesians is not just incidental; it's part of his apostolic ministry, which is seen as a blend of teaching and living out the gospel.

Theologically, this verse contributes to the understanding that Christian faith is not merely a set of beliefs but also a way of life demonstrated and shared within the community.

Practical Applications

From a practical standpoint, Acts 20:18 encourages believers to assess the consistency of their actions with their stated beliefs. It speaks to the need for authenticity in personal conduct, especially among those in leadership positions.

The verse can inspire self-reflection on how one's life can serve as an example to others, and on the importance of being transparent and accountable within one's community.

Cross-References

Acts 19:10 - "And this continued by the space of two years; so that all they which dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks."
2 Corinthians 1:12 - "For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world, and more abundantly to you-ward."
1 Thessalonians 2:10 - "Ye are witnesses, and God also, how holily and justly and unblameably we behaved ourselves among you that believe:"

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the phrase "from the first day that I came into Asia" has significant words such as "protos" (πρῶτος), meaning first or at the beginning, and "Asia" referring not to the continent but to the Roman province of Asia Minor.

"After what manner" translates from "hos" (ὡς), which can signify how or in what way. These words underscore the time frame and manner of Paul's conduct among the Ephesians.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparing this to other ancient texts, similar farewell addresses can be found in Greco-Roman literature where a leader reflects on their actions and provides exhortations.

For instance, Greek philosophers were also known to give parting words to their students, emphasizing their teachings and way of life.

In other religious contexts, such as Judaism, it is not uncommon to find rabbis leaving ethical wills or instructions, reflecting on their deeds and imparting wisdom to their followers.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, the verse does not directly intersect with scientific topics.

However, the principles of consistent behavior and setting examples can be supported by psychological research on social learning theory, where individuals learn from observing others, especially those in positions of authority or whom they respect.

Commentaries

Commentaries on Acts 20:18 often focus on Paul's ministry and how his message was underscored by his way of life.

Renowned biblical commentators like Matthew Henry emphasize the importance Paul placed on serving with humility and trials.

John Calvin highlights Paul's aim to serve God with all diligence and sincerity without seeking personal gain.

Modern commentators note the vulnerability and transparency Paul exhibits in admitting the challenges he faced and the unwavering commitment he demonstrated to the Ephesians during his ministry among them.

Acts 20

Acts 20

What does Acts 20:18 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 20:18 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?