Acts Chapter 20 — Paul’s Farewell to the Elders
Paul travels through Macedonia and Greece before stopping in Troas, where he raises Eutychus, and later gives a farewell speech to the Ephesian elders.
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Notable Verses
Acts 20:24
“But these things don’t count; nor do I hold my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to fully testify to the Good News of the grace of God.”
It illustrates Paul's dedication to his mission despite the trials he expects to face.
Acts 20:28
“Take heed, therefore, to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the assembly of the Lord and God which he purchased with his own blood.”
This verse provides clear instructions for church leaders to care for and protect their communities.
Acts 20:35
“In all things I gave you an example, that so laboring you ought to help the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”
This is a famous teaching of Jesus recorded by Paul that emphasizes the moral value of generosity.
Chapter Summary
Acts Chapter 20 follows the Apostle Paul as he travels through Macedonia and Greece to encourage the believers. While in Troas, Paul speaks late into the night; a young man named Eutychus falls asleep and drops from a third-story window, but Paul restores him to life. Continuing his journey toward Jerusalem, Paul stops at Miletus and calls for the elders of the church in Ephesus. He delivers an emotional farewell address, reminding them of his humble service and warning them of future challenges to the church. He emphasizes the importance of selfless leadership, hard work, and caring for the vulnerable. The chapter concludes with the elders weeping and praying with Paul, sorrowful because he told them they would not see him again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Eutychus was a young man in Troas who fell asleep during Paul's long sermon and fell from a third-story window. After he was picked up dead, Paul embraced him and his life was restored, bringing great comfort to the believers.
Paul was in a hurry to reach Jerusalem by the day of Pentecost and did not want to delay his journey by visiting Ephesus. He instead requested the Ephesian elders to meet him in Miletus for a final message.
Paul warned the leaders that 'vicious wolves' would enter the flock and that some among their own number would speak perverse things to lead disciples away. He urged them to be watchful and to remember his example.
Paul is stating that he is not responsible for the spiritual outcome of his listeners because he did not shrink from declaring the 'whole counsel of God' to them during his time in Asia.
Study Note
Acts 20:35 contains the only quote attributed to Jesus in the New Testament that is not found within the four Gospels.
Related Chapters
Acts 19
This chapter provides the background for Paul's three-year ministry in Ephesus before the events of chapter 20.
2 Timothy 4
This later letter contains Paul’s reflections on finishing his race, mirroring the language used in his farewell speech.
Ephesians 1
This epistle is addressed to the same community whose elders Paul addresses in this chapter.
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