◄ Acts 20 ►
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Paul in Macedonia and Greece 1When the uproar had ended, Paul sent for the disciples. And after encouraging them, he said goodbye to them and left for Macedonia. 2After traveling through that area and speaking many words of encouragement, he arrived in Greece, 3where he stayed three months. And when the Jews formed a plot against him as he was about to sail for Syria, he decided to go back through Macedonia. 4Paul was accompanied by Sopater son of Pyrrhus from Berea, Aristarchus and Secundus from Thessalonica, Gaius from Derbe, Timothy, and Tychicus and Trophimus from the province of Asia.a 5These men went on ahead and waited for us in Troas. 6And after the Feast of Unleavened Bread,b we sailed from Philippi, and five days later we rejoined them in Troas, where we stayed seven days. Eutychus Revived at Troas (2 Kings 4:18–37) 7On the first day of the week we came together to break bread. Since Paul was ready to leave the next day, he talked to them and kept on speaking until midnight. 8Now there were many lamps in the upper room where we were gathered. 9And a certain young man named Eutychus, seated in the window, was sinking into a deep sleep as Paul talked on and on. When he was sound asleep, he fell from the third story and was picked up dead. 10But Paul went down, threw himself on the young man, and embraced him. “Do not be alarmed!” he said. “He is still alive!” 11Then Paul went back upstairs, broke bread, and ate. And after speaking until daybreak, he departed. 12And the people were greatly relieved to take the boy home alive. From Troas to Miletus 13We went on ahead to the ship and sailed to Assos, where we were to take Paul aboard. He had arranged this because he was going there on foot. 14And when he met us at Assos, we took him aboard and went on to Mitylene. 15Sailing on from there, we arrived the next day opposite Chios. The day after that we arrived at Samos, andc on the following day we came to Miletus. 16Paul had decided to sail past Ephesus to avoid spending time in the province of Asia, because he was in a hurry to reach Jerusalem, if possible, by the day of Pentecost.d Paul’s Farewell to the Ephesians 17From Miletus, Paul sent to Ephesus for the elders of the church. 18When they came to him, he said, “You know how I lived the whole time I was with you, from the first day I arrived in the province of Asia. 19I served the Lord with great humility and with tears, especially in the trials that came upon me through the plots of the Jews. 20I did not shrink back from declaring anything that was helpful to you as I taught you publicly and from house to house, 21testifying to Jews and Greeks alike about repentance to God and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.e 22And now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there. 23I only know that in town after town the Holy Spirit warns me that chains and afflictions await me. 24But I consider my life of no value to me, if only I may finish my course and complete the ministry I have received from the Lord Jesus—the ministry of testifying to the good news of God’s grace. 25Now I know that none of you among whom I have preached the kingdom will see my face again. 26Therefore I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all men.f 27For I did not shrink back from declaring to you the whole will of God. 28Keep watch over yourselves and the entire flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God,g which He purchased with His own blood.h 29I know that after my departure, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. 30Even from your own number, men will rise up and distort the truth to draw away disciples after them. 31Therefore be alert and remember that for three years I never stopped warning each of you night and day with tears. 32And now I commit you to God and to the word of His grace, which can build you up and give you an inheritance among all who are sanctified. 33I have not coveted anyone’s silver or gold or clothing. 34You yourselves know that these hands of mine have ministered to my own needs and those of my companions. 35In everything, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words of the Lord Jesus Himself: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” 36When Paul had said this, he knelt down with all of them and prayed. 37They all wept openly as they embraced Paul and kissed him. 38They were especially grieved by his statement that they would never see his face again. Then they accompanied him to the ship. Footnotes: 4 a Literally from Asia; Asia was a Roman province in what is now western Turkey; also in verses 16 and 18. 6 b Literally after the days of the Unleavened; see Exodus 12:14–20. 15 c BYZ and TR and, after remaining at Trogyllium, 16 d That is, Shavuot, the late spring feast of pilgrimage to Jerusalem; it is also known as the Feast of Harvest (see Exodus 23:16) or the Feast of Weeks (see Exodus 34:22). 21 e ECM, TR, and Tischendorf; SBL, NE, BYZ, and WH our Lord Jesus 26 f See Ezekiel 33:8–9. 28 g Tischendorf of the Lord; BYZ and PT of the Lord and God 28 h Or with the blood of His own Son. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Acts 20 Summary Paul in Macedonia and Greece Verses 1–6 – From Ephesus through Macedonia and Greece Paul departs the riot-scarred city of Ephesus, circling north through Macedonia to strengthen the congregations. He spends three fruitful months in Corinth, but a Jewish plot forces a change of plans, so he backtracks through Macedonia. Seven trusted coworkers—Sopater, Aristarchus, Secundus, Gaius, Timothy, Tychicus, and Trophimus—go on ahead while Paul and Luke sail from Philippi after the Feast of Unleavened Bread and rejoin them in Troas. Verses 7–12 – Eutychus Raised in Troas On the first day of the week the believers meet in an upstairs room. Paul’s farewell teaching stretches past midnight; a young man named Eutychus nods off, falls three stories, and dies. Paul embraces him and declares, “Do not be alarmed, for his life is in him.” The youth is restored, the church is encouraged, and Paul keeps talking until daybreak. Verses 13–16 – Voyage past Asia Minor Paul walks the coastal road to Assos, boards the ship, and sails past Mitylene, Chios, Samos, and Miletus. He intentionally bypasses Ephesus to avoid delay, hoping to reach Jerusalem by Pentecost. Verses 17–27 – Paul’s Farewell Address: Commitment and Calling From Miletus he summons the Ephesian elders. He reminds them of three intense years of humble service, tears, and trials, declaring, “I did not shrink from preaching anything that was beneficial.” Bound in spirit for Jerusalem, he says, “But I consider my life of no value to me; if only I may finish my course and the ministry I have received from the Lord Jesus—the ministry of testifying to the good news of God’s grace” (v. 24 – . Verses 28–32 – Shepherd the Flock “Keep watch over yourselves and over the whole flock,” Paul urges, warning of savage wolves and distorted teachings. He commits them to God and “to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and give you an inheritance among all who are sanctified.” Verses 33–35 – Example of Selfless Labor He reminds them he coveted no one’s silver or gold. His own hands supplied his needs, adding, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (v. 35 – . Verses 36–38 – Tearful Farewell They kneel together in prayer. Grief grips the elders because they will not see Paul again. Amid tears and embraces, they escort him to the ship. Acts 20 chronicles Paul's journey through Macedonia and Greece, an extraordinary resurrection miracle, and a heart-wrenching farewell to the Ephesian elders. As Paul anticipates hardships and trials, his courage, selflessness, and fervor for God's mission shine through, offering valuable lessons for Christian life and leadership. Historical Snapshot: A Rapid-Fire Itinerary • Winter of AD 56–57: Three months in Corinth (Romans is penned). • Spring travel: Philippi to Troas (five days), a week in Troas, quick hops down the Aegean coast, aiming for Pentecost (late May/early June). • The journey covers roughly 1,000 miles by land and sea in a matter of weeks, highlighting Paul’s urgency to deliver the Jerusalem relief offering (Acts 24:17; 1 Corinthians 16:1-4). Companions in Ministry Sopater of Berea, Aristarchus of Thessalonica (later Paul’s fellow prisoner, Colossians 4:10), Secundus, Gaius of Derbe, Timothy, Tychicus and Trophimus from Asia—an international team that mirrors the church’s expanding reach. Their presence safeguards the large collection for Jerusalem and models shared leadership (2 Corinthians 8:19-21). Early Church Rhythm: First-Day Gathering Verse 7 records believers meeting “on the first day of the week.” Alongside 1 Corinthians 16:2 and Revelation 1:10, it shows the resurrection day becoming the primary day for worship and teaching while still allowing Jewish believers to honor Sabbath freedoms (Romans 14:5). Breaking bread includes a fellowship meal and the Lord’s Supper, reminding disciples of Christ’s sacrifice (Luke 22:19). Eutychus—Life Over Death Luke’s medical eye underscores the reality of the fall (“picked up dead,” v. 9). Paul’s embrace echoes Elijah and Elisha raising the dead (1 Kings 17:21; 2 Kings 4:34) and mirrors Jesus’ command, “Talitha koum!” (Mark 5:41). The miracle reinforces apostolic authority and comforts a church facing Paul’s departure. Ports and Pathways: Archaeological Glimpses • Troas: Founded by Alexander’s successors, its harbor ruins still face the island of Tenedos. • Assos: A steep, walled acropolis; its 19-mile Roman road from Troas is still visible. • Miletus: Four harbor basins now silted up; a well-preserved theater seats 15,000, fitting for a meeting with elders. These locations confirm Luke’s precision; inscriptions match the nautical route he records. Elders, Overseers, Shepherds—One Office, Three Pictures Paul addresses the same men as “elders” (v. 17) and “overseers” (v. 28) who are to “shepherd” the church. The terms emphasize maturity, oversight, and care. Peter uses the same trio (1 Peter 5:1-3). Authority is relational, rooted in serving, teaching, and protecting, not in titles. Guarding the Gospel “Savage wolves” (v. 29) anticipate doctrinal attacks. Within a decade, Paul warns Timothy about Ephesus again (1 Timothy 1:3-7; 2 Timothy 4:3-4). The antidote: Scripture, example, and vigilance. Jude echoes, “Contend for the faith once for all entrusted to the saints” (Jude 3). Self-Support and Generosity Paul’s tentmaking (Acts 18:3) frees him from financial suspicion and models giving, not getting. His quote from Jesus—unrecorded in the Gospels—was preserved orally among believers, underscoring the Book of Acts as a bridge between written and living tradition (John 21:25). Pentecost Deadline Paul hurries to reach Jerusalem by Pentecost, the feast celebrating the wheat harvest and, by Christian memory, the outpouring of the Spirit (Acts 2). Bringing Gentile gifts to Jewish believers at this feast dramatizes unity in Christ (Romans 15:25-27). Connecting Threads • The embrace of Eutychus parallels the fatherly embrace of the prodigal (Luke 15:20)—life restored. • Paul’s farewell mirrors Moses’ final words to Israel (Deuteronomy 31) and Joshua’s to the leaders (Joshua 23-24). • The charge to shepherd ties to Jesus’ command to Peter, “Feed My sheep” (John 21:17). • Tears and farewells continue at Tyre (Acts 21:5-6) and Caesarea (Acts 21:13), showing authentic Christian affection. Takeaways for Today • Encourage believers face-to-face; letters help, but personal presence still matters. • Long teaching isn’t boring when love fuels it and truth saves lives. • Leadership equals servanthood—work hard, share freely, guard the flock. • The Word of grace builds up and secures our inheritance; stay anchored there. Connections to Additional Scriptures Commitment to Ministry 2 Timothy 4:7-8, where Paul reflects on having fought the good fight and kept the faith. The Power of God John 11:43-44, where Jesus raises Lazarus, demonstrating God's power over life and death. Shepherding the Flock 1 Peter 5:2-3, which instructs elders to shepherd God's flock willingly and eagerly. The Role of the Holy Spirit Galatians 5:16-25, which describes living by the Spirit and the fruit it produces. Teaching Points Paul's Journey and Commitment Acts 20:1-6 details Paul's travels through Macedonia and Greece, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to strengthening the churches despite the challenges he faced. Eutychus Raised from the Dead In Acts 20:7-12, Paul performs a miracle by raising Eutychus from the dead, illustrating the power of God at work through His servants and the importance of gathering together for worship and teaching. Paul's Farewell to the Ephesian Elders Acts 20:17-38 captures Paul's heartfelt farewell, where he emphasizes his faithful service, the importance of vigilance, and the need to shepherd the church with care and integrity. Warning Against False Teachers Paul warns the elders in Acts 20:29-31 about the rise of false teachers, urging them to be watchful and protect the flock from spiritual harm. The Role of the Holy Spirit Throughout the chapter, Paul acknowledges the guidance and empowerment of the Holy Spirit in his ministry, highlighting the necessity of relying on the Spirit for strength and direction. Practical Applications Commit to Serving Others Like Paul, we are called to serve others with dedication and love, even when it requires personal sacrifice. Value the Gathering of Believers Regular fellowship and teaching are vital for spiritual growth and encouragement, as seen in the gathering where Eutychus was raised. Guard Against False Teachings Be vigilant in discerning truth from falsehood, ensuring that our beliefs and teachings align with Scripture. Rely on the Holy Spirit Seek the guidance and empowerment of the Holy Spirit in all aspects of life and ministry. People 1. Paul The apostle who is central to the narrative in Acts 20. He is traveling through Macedonia and Greece, encouraging the disciples and preparing to return to Jerusalem. Paul is known for his missionary journeys and his role in spreading the Gospel to the Gentiles. 2. Sopater of Berea Mentioned in Acts 20:4, Sopater is one of Paul's companions. He is described as the son of Pyrrhus and hails from Berea, a city in Macedonia. The name Sopater (Σώπατρος) in Greek means "savior of his father." 3. Aristarchus Also mentioned in Acts 20:4, Aristarchus is a Macedonian from Thessalonica. He is a frequent companion of Paul and is noted for his dedication to the ministry. His name in Greek (Ἀρίσταρχος) means "best ruler." 4. Secundus Another companion from Thessalonica mentioned in Acts 20:4. The name Secundus (Σεκοῦνδος) is Latin in origin, meaning "second," which may imply he was the second son in his family. 5. Gaius of Derbe Listed in Acts 20:4, Gaius is from Derbe, a city in the region of Galatia. He is one of Paul's traveling companions. The name Gaius (Γάϊος) is a common Roman name. 6. Timothy Also mentioned in Acts 20:4, Timothy is a well-known associate of Paul, often referred to as his spiritual son. Timothy's name (Τιμόθεος) in Greek means "honoring God." 7. Tychicus Another companion of Paul mentioned in Acts 20:4. Tychicus is from the province of Asia and is known for being a faithful minister. His name (Τυχικός) means "fortunate" or "chance" in Greek. 8. Trophimus Also from the province of Asia, Trophimus is mentioned in Acts 20:4. He is a companion of Paul and is later noted in Acts 21:29. The name Trophimus (Τρόφιμος) means "nourishing" in Greek. 9. Eutychus Mentioned in Acts 20:9, Eutychus is a young man who falls asleep and then falls from a window during Paul's long discourse in Troas. Paul revives him, demonstrating the power of God. His name (Εὔτυχος) means "fortunate" in Greek. Places 1. Macedonia Acts 20:1: After the uproar in Ephesus, Paul departed for Macedonia. This region in northern Greece was significant in Paul's missionary journeys, including cities like Philippi and Thessalonica. The Greek term used is "Μακεδονία" (Makedonia). 2. Greece Acts 20:2: Paul traveled through Macedonia and then came to Greece, where he stayed for three months. This likely refers to the region of Achaia, including cities like Corinth. The Greek term is "Ἑλλάς" (Hellas). 3. Syria Acts 20:3: Paul planned to sail to Syria but changed his plans due to a plot against him by the Jews. Syria was a Roman province, and Antioch in Syria was a major center for early Christianity. The Greek term is "Συρία" (Syria). 4. Philippi Acts 20:6: Paul and his companions sailed from Philippi after the Feast of Unleavened Bread. Philippi was a leading city in Macedonia and the site of the first Christian church in Europe. The Greek term is "Φίλιπποι" (Philippoi). 5. Troas Acts 20:6: They arrived in Troas, where they stayed for seven days. Troas was a port city in the northwest of Asia Minor, significant for Paul's missionary activities. The Greek term is "Τρῳάς" (Troas). 6. Assos Acts 20:13: Paul traveled on foot to Assos, where he met his companions who had sailed there. Assos was a city in the Roman province of Asia, located on the coast. The Greek term is "Ἄσσος" (Assos). 7. Mitylene Acts 20:14: From Assos, they sailed to Mitylene. Mitylene was the chief city of the island of Lesbos in the Aegean Sea. The Greek term is "Μιτυλήνη" (Mitylene). 8. Chios Acts 20:15: They sailed past Chios. Chios is an island in the Aegean Sea, known for its maritime activities. The Greek term is "Χίος" (Chios). 9. Samos Acts 20:15: They arrived at Samos. Samos is another island in the Aegean Sea, close to the coast of Asia Minor. The Greek term is "Σάμος" (Samos). 10. Miletus Acts 20:15: They reached Miletus. Miletus was an ancient city on the western coast of Asia Minor, where Paul met with the Ephesian elders. The Greek term is "Μίλητος" (Miletos). 11. Ephesus Acts 20:16: Paul decided to sail past Ephesus to avoid spending time in Asia, as he was hurrying to be in Jerusalem for Pentecost. Ephesus was a major city in Asia Minor and a significant center for early Christianity. The Greek term is "Ἔφεσος" (Ephesos). 12. Jerusalem Acts 20:16: Paul was hurrying to reach Jerusalem by the day of Pentecost. Jerusalem is the central city of Jewish worship and the early Christian church. The Greek term is "Ἱεροσόλυμα" (Hierosolyma). Events 1. Paul Travels Through Macedonia and Greece (Acts 20:1-2) After the uproar in Ephesus, Paul encourages the disciples and departs for Macedonia. He travels through the region, offering encouragement to the believers with many words. 2. Paul's Stay in Greece (Acts 20:3) Paul spends three months in Greece. Due to a plot by the Jews against him as he is about to sail for Syria, he decides to return through Macedonia. 3. Paul's Companions (Acts 20:4) Several companions accompany Paul, including Sopater of Berea, Aristarchus and Secundus of the Thessalonians, Gaius of Derbe, Timothy, and Tychicus and Trophimus from Asia. 4. Journey to Troas (Acts 20:5-6) The group travels ahead to Troas, where they wait for Paul. Paul and his companions sail from Philippi after the Feast of Unleavened Bread and join them in Troas five days later, staying for seven days. 5. Eutychus Raised from the Dead (Acts 20:7-12) On the first day of the week, the believers gather to break bread. Paul speaks until midnight. A young man named Eutychus falls asleep and falls from the third story, but Paul revives him, saying, "Do not be alarmed, for his life is in him." 6. Paul's Journey from Troas to Miletus (Acts 20:13-16) Paul travels by land to Assos, where he meets the others who had sailed there. They continue to Mitylene, then to Chios, Samos, and finally Miletus. Paul decides to sail past Ephesus to avoid spending time in Asia, as he is hurrying to reach Jerusalem by Pentecost. 7. Paul's Farewell to the Ephesian Elders (Acts 20:17-38) From Miletus, Paul sends for the elders of the church in Ephesus. He recounts his service to the Lord with humility and tears, warns them of future challenges, and commends them to God. He emphasizes his own example of hard work and generosity, quoting Jesus, "It is more blessed to give than to receive." The elders weep and pray with Paul, sorrowful that they will not see him again. Lessons from Acts 20 1. The Power of Encouragement In Acts 20, we see Paul traveling through Macedonia and Greece, offering encouragement to the believers. This reminds us of the importance of uplifting one another in our faith journeys. As Paul demonstrated, a few words of encouragement can strengthen and embolden others to continue in their walk with Christ. As it is written, "Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing" (1 Thessalonians 5:11). 2. The Importance of Gathering Together Paul's journey highlights the significance of gathering with fellow believers. In Troas, he met with the disciples on the first day of the week to break bread and share the Word. This gathering was not just a routine; it was a vital part of their spiritual growth. Hebrews 10:25 reminds us, "Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another." 3. The Power of the Word Paul's lengthy discourse in Troas, which lasted until midnight, underscores the transformative power of God's Word. Despite the late hour, the believers were eager to listen and learn. This serves as a reminder that the Word of God is living and active, capable of changing lives. As Paul himself wrote, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness" (2 Timothy 3:16). 4. The Reality of Miracles The story of Eutychus, who fell from a window and was raised to life by Paul, is a testament to the miraculous power of God. This miracle not only restored Eutychus but also strengthened the faith of those present. It reminds us that God is still in the business of performing miracles today. As Jesus said, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible" (Matthew 19:26). 5. The Call to Serve with Humility Paul's farewell to the Ephesian elders is a powerful lesson in servant leadership. He served the Lord with great humility and with tears, enduring trials for the sake of the Gospel. This teaches us that true leadership in the Kingdom of God is marked by humility and a willingness to serve others. As Jesus taught, "The greatest among you shall be your servant" (Matthew 23:11). 6. The Necessity of Guarding the Flock Paul warned the Ephesian elders to be vigilant, as "savage wolves" would come in among them, not sparing the flock. This is a call for us to be watchful and protect the community of believers from false teachings and divisive influences. As Paul advised, "Test all things; hold fast to what is good" (1 Thessalonians 5:21). 7. The Value of Hard Work Paul reminded the elders that he worked hard to support himself and those with him, setting an example of diligence and integrity. This teaches us the value of hard work and the importance of providing for ourselves and others. As Paul wrote, "Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men" (Colossians 3:23). 8. The Blessing of Giving In his farewell, Paul quoted Jesus, saying, "It is more blessed to give than to receive" (Acts 20:35). This principle of generosity is a cornerstone of Christian living. By giving freely, we reflect the heart of God and experience the joy that comes from blessing others. 9. The Power of Prayer Before departing, Paul knelt down with all the elders and prayed. This act of communal prayer highlights its power and necessity in our lives. Prayer is our direct line to God, a source of strength and guidance. As Paul encouraged, "Pray without ceasing" (1 Thessalonians 5:17). 10. The Strength of Community The emotional farewell between Paul and the Ephesian elders illustrates the deep bonds formed within the body of Christ. Their tears and embraces show the strength and love that come from being part of a faith community. As Jesus commanded, "Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another" (John 13:34). This love is the hallmark of true discipleship. Topics 1. Paul's Journey through Macedonia and Greece (Acts 20:1-6) After the uproar in Ephesus, Paul travels through Macedonia, offering encouragement to the disciples. He then spends three months in Greece. The Greek term "παρακαλέω" (parakaleó) is used for "encouraging," emphasizing Paul's role in strengthening the believers. 2. Eutychus Raised from the Dead (Acts 20:7-12) During a gathering on the first day of the week, Paul speaks until midnight. A young man named Eutychus falls from a window and is presumed dead, but Paul revives him. The Greek word "νεκρός" (nekros) is used for "dead," highlighting the miraculous nature of this event. 3. Paul's Farewell to the Ephesian Elders (Acts 20:13-38) Paul sends for the elders of the church in Ephesus to meet him in Miletus. He delivers a heartfelt farewell speech, warning them of future challenges and encouraging them to shepherd the church. The Greek term "ποιμαίνω" (poimainó) is used for "shepherd," underscoring the pastoral responsibility of the elders. Each of these topics reflects key moments in Paul's ministry and provides insights into the early Christian church's challenges and growth. The use of specific Greek terms helps to deepen the understanding of the text's original meaning and context. Themes 1. Paul’s Pastoral Care and Encouragement Paul demonstrates his pastoral heart by encouraging the disciples in various regions. Acts 20:1-2 states, "When the uproar had ended, Paul sent for the disciples and, after encouraging them, said goodbye and set out for Macedonia. He traveled through that area, speaking many words of encouragement to the people, and finally arrived in Greece." The Greek word for "encouragement" here is "παρακαλέω" (parakaleó), which means to exhort, comfort, or encourage. 2. The Importance of Fellowship and Breaking Bread The early church's practice of gathering for fellowship and breaking bread is highlighted. Acts 20:7 says, "On the first day of the week, we came together to break bread." This reflects the communal aspect of early Christian worship and the significance of the Lord’s Supper. 3. Miraculous Works and the Power of God The miraculous raising of Eutychus from the dead underscores the power of God working through Paul. Acts 20:9-10 recounts, "Seated in a window was a young man named Eutychus, who was sinking into a deep sleep as Paul talked on and on... Paul went down, threw himself on the young man, and put his arms around him. 'Do not be alarmed,' he said, 'he is still alive!'" 4. Paul’s Commitment to Preaching the Gospel Paul’s unwavering commitment to preaching the Gospel is evident as he declares his dedication despite knowing the hardships that await him. Acts 20:24 states, "But I consider my life of no value to me, if only I may finish my course and complete the ministry I have received from the Lord Jesus—the ministry of testifying to the good news of God’s grace." 5. Warning Against False Teachers Paul warns the Ephesian elders about the rise of false teachers. Acts 20:29-30 warns, "I know that after my departure, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. Even from your own number, men will rise up and distort the truth to draw away disciples after them." The term "savage wolves" metaphorically represents false teachers who threaten the church. 6. The Role of the Holy Spirit in Ministry Paul emphasizes the guidance of the Holy Spirit in his ministry. Acts 20:22-23 mentions, "And now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there. I only know that in every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me." The Greek word "δεδεμένος" (dedemenos) for "compelled" indicates being bound or constrained by the Spirit. 7. The Call to Shepherd the Church Paul charges the Ephesian elders to shepherd the church of God. Acts 20:28 instructs, "Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which He bought with His own blood." The Greek word "ποιμαίνω" (poimaino) for "shepherd" implies tending, guiding, and protecting the flock. Prayer Points Pray for a heart of service and dedication like Paul's, willing to serve others selflessly. Ask God to strengthen the bonds of fellowship within your church community and to bless your gatherings with His presence. Seek discernment and wisdom to recognize and refute false teachings, standing firm in biblical truth. Invite the Holy Spirit to guide and empower you in your daily walk and ministry, relying on His strength and wisdom. Answering Tough Questions 1. How can the supposed resurrection of Eutychus (Acts 20:9–12) be scientifically or historically verified? 2. Why does Luke’s account in Acts 20 appear to contradict other historical records of Paul’s journeys? 3. Is there any archeological evidence supporting the locations or events described in Acts 20? 4. Why would the Christians wait until midnight to break bread, and does this align with known cultural practices of the time (Acts 20:7)? 5. Did Paul’s claim that his listeners would never see him again (Acts 20:25) prove accurate, and how can this be confirmed? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Paul's journey through Macedonia and Greece demonstrate his commitment to church-building? 2. What does the resurrection of Eutychus reveal about the power of God working through Paul? 3. How can we emulate Paul's dedication, seen in his all-night teaching in Troas? 4. What does Paul's farewell speech to the Ephesian elders teach us about Christian leadership? 5. How can Paul's predictions of hardships and trials equip us for our own faith journey? 6. What strategies does Paul suggest to guard against false teachings within the church? 7. How does Paul model reliance on God and His word during uncertain times? 8. In what ways does this chapter underscore the importance of community in Christianity? 9. How does Paul's farewell illustrate the emotional investment involved in spiritual mentorship? 10. How can we prepare ourselves and our communities for the inevitable challenges in our faith journeys? 11. How does Acts 20 inspire us to serve God and His people selflessly? 12. How should we handle the distressing task of bidding farewell, as Paul does with the Ephesian elders? 13. How can we discern and warn against false teachings within our current religious context? 14. How does Paul's experience relate to the notion of surrendering to God's will, especially in challenging circumstances? 15. What role does prayer play in strengthening and encouraging communities, as seen in Paul's interaction with the Ephesian elders? 16. How does the story of Eutychus's resurrection encourage us amidst seemingly hopeless situations? 17. How can we respond when confronted with loss or the departure of a spiritual leader, like the Ephesian elders faced with Paul's departure? 18. How does this chapter challenge our understanding of sacrifice in the name of ministry? 19. How can we balance the call to serve with the call to guard our faith, as seen in Paul's ministry and warning? 20. What does Paul's journey teach us about facing adversity with courage and faith in our daily lives? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions