Acts 20:13-38
Q.1. Why was Ephesus bypassed on the trip from Troas to Miletus? How had Paul ministered in Ephesus? What did he expect to happen at Jerusalem? – (Acts 20:13-25)
Just why Paul didn’t join his team by ship, we are not told. He probably went by land to catch up with some believers (Acts 20:13-14). They then sailed together beyond Ephesus to Miletus – … for he was hurrying to be in Jerusalem, if possible, on the day of Pentecost (Acts 20:16). While at Miletus – … he sent to Ephesus and called to him the elders of the church (Acts 20:17). Paul’s message to these leaders was fully reported because it was foundational and contained some of the most crucial guidelines for elders of a local church (c.f. Acts 20:18-35). He had modelled passionate and faithful shepherding at Ephesus for some three years, both publicly and privately, from home to home (Acts 20:19-20 & 31). He taught both Jews and Gentiles to maintain – repentance toward God and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ (Acts 20:21). He had determined to go to Jerusalem, although he knew that – bonds and afflictions await me (Acts 20:23). He happily pursued this path – … so that I may finish my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of God (Acts 20:24). He knew that he would never see them again (Acts 20:25).
Q.2. What was his instruction and warning to the Ephesian elders? How had Paul modelled ministry and giving? What made the parting so emotional? – (Acts 20:25-38)
Paul stated that he had been faithful and guiltless, because he had been – declaring to you the whole purpose of God (Acts 20:27). They were an extension of his endeavours. Therefore, they should – be on guard for yourselves and for all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood (Acts 20:28). They were blood-bought and placed into the church. They were then chosen for that role by the Holy Spirit, so were to exercise their oversight diligently. Paul gave his reason, based on his experience that savage wolves would not spare the flock. Sadly – from among your own selves, men will arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after them (Acts 20:30). Paul himself had served tirelessly and sacrificially, in order to build up God’s flock. In doing this, he followed Christ’s own words, that – …`it is more blessed to give than to receive.’ (Acts 20:35). Paul’s love was reciprocated – they began to weep aloud and embraced Paul, and repeatedly kissed him (Acts 20:37). The parting was doubly sad because they would never see him again (Acts 20:38).