Paul Says Goodbye to the Ephesian Elders

While Paul was at Miletus, he sent for the elders of the assembly in Ephesus. When they arrived, he reminded them how he had lived among them from the time he first came into Asia. He had served the Lord humbly, with tears, and through hard troubles caused by plots against him.

Paul said he had not held back anything helpful. He had taught in public and from house to house, telling both Jews and Greeks to turn to God and trust in the Lord Jesus. Now he was going to Jerusalem, compelled by the Spirit, though he knew bonds and afflictions were waiting for him.

He did not count his own life as the most important thing. He wanted to finish the work Jesus had given him, fully telling the good news of God’s grace. Paul said these elders would not see him again, and he was clear that he had faithfully told them the whole counsel of God.

Then Paul warned the elders to watch themselves and care for God’s people like shepherds guarding a flock. The Holy Spirit had made them overseers. Paul said fierce wolves would come in and not spare the flock, and even some from among themselves would speak twisted things to draw disciples after them. So they must stay alert, remembering that for three years he had warned each one night and day with tears.

Paul entrusted them to God and to the word of his grace, which could build them up and give them an inheritance among God’s holy people. He reminded them that he had not coveted anyone’s silver, gold, or clothing. He had worked with his own hands to help himself and those with him, showing that they should help the weak and remember that it is more blessed to give than to receive.

After speaking, Paul knelt down and prayed with them all. They wept freely, embraced him, and kissed him. Their greatest sorrow was that he had said they would see his face no more. Then they went with him to the ship.