What does Acts 20:37 mean?

Explanation

Acts 20:37 describes an emotional farewell scene between the Apostle Paul and the elders of the church in Ephesus.

This verse captures the depth of love and the bonds of Christian fellowship that were formed between Paul and the members of the church. Literally, the verse is straightforward: those present are weeping greatly, embracing Paul, and kissing him.

The deeper meaning lies in the emotional intensity of the moment.

The tears and physical expressions of affection show the profound impact Paul had on these individuals and the sorrow they felt at his departure.

In Acts 20, Paul has been talking to the Ephesian elders about his impending departure and the trials he expects to face, including not seeing them again.

The weeping, embracing, and kissing can be seen as an outpouring of grief and love in the face of separation.

Historical Context

This verse is part of the narrative in the Book of Acts, which describes the early history of the Christian Church following the ascension of Jesus.

Paul was on his third missionary journey and had called the elders of the Ephesian church to meet with him at Miletus.

He was on his way to Jerusalem and sensed that he would not return to Ephesus.

The display of emotion was customary in the Mediterranean culture, where farewells often included weeping and physical expressions of affection. Kissing was a common way of greeting or saying goodbye among close friends and family members.

Theological Insights

The farewell between Paul and the Ephesian elders highlights several theological themes:

• The unity of the Church: Paul's relationship with the Ephesian elders reflects the deep spiritual kinship that is central to Christian community and brotherhood.
• The cost of discipleship: The distress of the elders at Paul's departure underlines the sacrifices and trials faced by the early followers of Jesus.
• Pastoral care: Paul's emotional farewell also serves as a model of pastoral leadership, characterized by deep personal investment and mutual affection.

Some theological perspectives would further emphasize the role of the Holy Spirit in knitting together the hearts of believers in love and fellowship, reinforcing the idea that the Church is more than an institution, it's a family in Christ.

Practical Applications

Acts 20:37 can inspire contemporary believers to consider the depth of their relationships within their faith communities. Practical applications include:

• Building authentic relationships within church communities.
• Recognizing and appreciating those who labor in teaching and guidance.
• Preparing for the reality that Christian service may involve difficult goodbyes and sacrifices.
• Valuing the emotional connection as much as the spiritual connection within a church family.

Cross-References

• Acts 20:31 - Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.
• Romans 16:16 - Salute one another with an holy kiss.

The churches of Christ salute you.

• 1 Thessalonians 2:8 - So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us.

Language Study

In the original Greek text, particularly poignant words are used in this verse:

• "Wept sore" ("κλαίοντες" or "klaiontes") suggests an intense, loud weeping or lamentation.
• "Fell on Paul's neck" uses the Greek phrase "ἐπιπεσόντες" ("epipesontes"), indicating a throwing oneself upon another in embrace, showing strong emotion and attachment.
• "Kissed him" ("κατεφίλουν" or "katephiloun") refers to tender expressions of love, which is a culturally warm expression of affection for friends and family.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In many ancient cultures, emotional farewells and physical expressions of affection were a part of the cultural or religious practice.

Comparable emotional expressions can also be found in other traditions:

• In ancient Rome, friends and family would kiss and embrace when parting.
• In Judaism, the kissing of a Rabbi's hand or even the hem of his garment was an expression of reverence and affection.
• The act of embracing and weeping can be paralleled with similar scenes of departure among heroes or leaders in various ancient myths, signifying respect and deep emotional ties.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, physical expressions of affection like hugging and kissing release oxytocin, known as the "love hormone," which can strengthen social bonds and emotional connections.

Weeping, on the other hand, has been suggested by psychologists to be a means of coping with intense emotions, also aiding in bonding by evoking empathy and support from others.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and commentators offer different insights on this verse:

• Matthew Henry views this scene as reflective of the sincere love that should characterize Christians, pointing out the emotional depth of Christian fellowship.
• John Calvin sees in this passage an example of the genuine sorrow that arises from godly friendships and a life dedicated to serving others.
• The Pulpit Commentary emphasizes the personal sacrifice and the deep bonds formed in Christian ministry, as illustrated by Paul's relationship with the Ephesian elders.

These expert views underscore the importance of relationship and community within the Christian experience as exemplified by Paul and the elders of Ephesus.