Commentary of the Book of the Acts of the Apostles
By Dr. Barry L. Jenkins
Text Used: Legacy Standard Bible
Bible Study Acts 20: 1-38
Text:
Through Macedonia and Greece
20 Now after the uproar had ceased, Paul having summoned and exhorted the disciples, said farewell and left to go to Macedonia. 2 And when he had gone through those districts and had given them much exhortation, he came to Greece. 3 And there he spent three months, and when a plot was formed against him by the Jews as he was about to set sail for Syria, he decided to return through Macedonia. 4 And he was accompanied by Sopater of Berea, the son of Pyrrhus, and by Aristarchus and Secundus of the Thessalonians, and Gaius of Derbe, and Timothy, and Tychicus and Trophimus of [a]Asia. 5 But these had gone on ahead and were waiting for us at Troas. 6 And we sailed from Philippi after the days of Unleavened Bread, and came to them at Troas within five days; and there we stayed seven days.
Eutychus Raised from the Dead in Troas
7 And on the first day of the week, when we were gathered together to break bread, Paul began speaking to them, intending to leave the next day, and he prolonged his [b]message until midnight. 8 Now there were many lamps in the upper room where we were gathered together. 9 And there was a young man named [c]Eutychus sitting on the windowsill, sinking into a deep sleep. And as Paul kept on talking, he sunk into that sleep and fell down from the third floor and was picked up dead. 10 But Paul went down and fell upon him, and after embracing him, he said, “[d]Do not be troubled, for his life is in him.” 11 And when he had gone back up and had broken the bread and [e]eaten, he talked with them a long while until daybreak, and then left. 12 And they took away the boy alive, and were not a little comforted.
Paul’s Farewell to the Ephesian Elders
13 But we, going ahead to the ship, set sail for Assos, intending from there to take Paul on board; for so he had arranged it, intending himself to go [f]by land. 14 And when he met us at Assos, we took him on board and came to Mitylene. 15 And sailing from there, we arrived the following day opposite Chios; and the next day we crossed over to Samos; and the day following we came to Miletus. 16 For Paul had decided to sail past Ephesus so that he would not have to spend time in [g]Asia; for he was hurrying to be in Jerusalem, if possible, on the day of Pentecost.
17 Now from Miletus he sent to Ephesus and called to him the elders of the church. 18 And when they had come to him, he said to them,
“You yourselves know, from the first day that I set foot in Asia, how I was with you the whole time, 19 serving the Lord with all humility and with tears and with trials which came upon me [h]through the plots of the Jews; 20 how I did not shrink from declaring to you anything that was profitable, and teaching you publicly and [i]from house to house, 21 solemnly testifying to both Jews and Greeks about repentance toward God and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. 22 And now, behold, bound by the [j]Spirit, I am on my way to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there, 23 except that the Holy Spirit solemnly testifies to me in every city, saying that chains and afflictions await me. 24 But I do not make my life of any account nor dear to myself, 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.
25 “And now, behold, I know that all of you, among whom I went about preaching the kingdom, will no longer see my face. 26 Therefore, I [k]testify to you this day that I am [l]innocent of the blood of all. 27 For I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole purpose of God. 28 Be on guard for yourselves and for all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you [m]overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He [n]purchased [o]with His own blood. 29 I know that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; 30 and from among your own selves men will arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after them. 31 Therefore be watchful, remembering that night and day for a period of three years I did not cease to admonish each one with tears. 32 And now I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and to give you the inheritance among all those who have been sanctified. 33 I have coveted no one’s silver or gold or clothes. 34 You yourselves know that these hands ministered to my own needs and to those who were with me. 35 In everything I showed you that by laboring in this manner you must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He Himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”
36 And when he had said these things, he knelt down and prayed with them all. 37 And [p]they began to weep aloud and falling on Paul’s neck, they were kissing him, 38 being in agony especially over the word which he had spoken, that they would not see his face again. And they were accompanying him to the ship.
Verse by verse commentary:
Verse 1: “Now after the uproar had ceased, Paul having summoned and exhorted the disciples, said farewell and left to go to Macedonia.”
From Ephesus, Paul journeyed up the coast of Asia Minor, possibly by road or ship, to Troas, and then by ship to Macedonia and Philippi. During this time, he visited various groups of believers. While in Macedonia, Paul's ministry might have reached as far as Illyricum (present-day Albania).
Verse 2: “And when he had gone through those districts and had given them much exhortation, he came to Greece.”
During the winter of A.D. 56–57, Paul arrived in Corinth and wrote Romans.
Verse 3: “And there he spent three months, and when a plot was formed against him by the Jews as he was about to set sail for Syria, he decided to return through Macedonia.”
Paul likely spent three months in Corinth. During this time, Jewish communities plotted against him, a recurring theme in Paul's ministry. The Jewish community in Corinth particularly resented Paul due to their earlier humiliation before Gallio and the significant conversions of their leaders, Crispus and Sosthenes. Although Luke doesn't detail the plot, it was likely an attempt to murder Paul during his sea voyage to Syria, as he would have been vulnerable on a ship filled with Jewish pilgrims. To avoid this danger, Paul changed his plans, opting to travel north into Macedonia, cross the Aegean Sea to Asia Minor, and find another ship from there. This detour meant he missed Passover in Jerusalem, but he aimed to arrive by Pentecost.
Verse 4: “And he was accompanied by Sopater of Berea, the son of Pyrrhus, and by Aristarchus and Secundus of the Thessalonians, and Gaius of Derbe, and Timothy, and Tychicus and Trophimus of Asia.”
Paul's traveling companions, possibly official church representatives, are listed by name. They may have been appointed to deliver funds collected for the Jerusalem church..
Among them:
Sopater: Possibly the "Sosipater" mentioned in Rom. 16:21.
Aristarchus: A faithful companion who traveled with Paul during the third missionary journey (19:29) and to Rome (27:2), where he shared Paul's imprisonment (Col. 4:10).
Secundus: Not mentioned elsewhere in the New Testament.
Gaius: May be distinct from the Macedonian Gaius noted in 19:29.
Timothy: For more information, see the Introduction to 1 Timothy: Date and Occasion.
Tychicus: Later served as Paul’s representative to various churches during the apostle’s imprisonments (Eph. 6:21; Col. 4:7–9; 2 Tim. 4:12).
Trophimus: Accompanied Paul to Jerusalem, where his presence ultimately led to Paul’s arrest (21:29). He also seems to have traveled with Paul after his release from the first Roman imprisonment.
Verse 5: “But these had gone on ahead and were waiting for us at Troas.”
Luke's use of the first-person plural pronoun indicates his journey with Paul to Jerusalem.
Verse 6: “And we sailed from Philippi after the days of Unleavened Bread, and came to them at Troas within five days; and there we stayed seven days.”
Paul, accompanied by Luke and potentially Titus, journeyed from Philippi to Troas, crossing the Aegean Sea. This voyage spanned five days due to adverse winds, in contrast to his earlier, two-day crossing from Troas to Neapolis (Philippi's port) as recorded in Acts 16:11. Upon arriving in Troas, they reconvened with the remainder of their group during the Days of Unleavened Bread, also known as Passover.
Verse 7: “And on the first day of the week, when we were gathered together to break bread, Paul began speaking to them, intending to leave the next day, and he prolonged his message until midnight.”
Sunday, the first day of the week, was when they gathered for worship, referred to as the Lord's Day (Revelation 1:10). This gathering included communion, signifying more than just a fellowship meal, as they came together to "break bread." Paul's discourse constituted a Sunday evening teaching service.
Verse 8: “Now there were many lamps in the upper room where we were gathered together.”
The "upper room" where the early church gathered, as noted in 1:13, was typically a home setting. The presence of numerous oil-burning lamps in such rooms would have produced fumes, which likely contributed to Eutychus falling asleep.
Verse 9: “And there was a young man named Eutychus sitting on the windowsill, sinking into a deep sleep. And as Paul kept on talking, he sunk into that sleep and fell down from the third floor and was picked up dead.”
The Greek term for “young man” indicates he was likely between 7 and 14 years old. A combination of his age, the lamp fumes, and the late hour gradually led him to fall asleep, causing him to tumble from an open window to his death.
Verse 10: “But Paul went down and fell upon him, and after embracing him, he said, ‘Do not be troubled, for his life is in him.’”
As a physician, Luke clearly states that Eutychus had died, but that his life was restored. This does not mean that he had not died, but rather that his life was in him again.
Verse 11: “And when he had gone back up and had broken the bread and eaten, he talked with them a long while until daybreak, and then left.”
Paul resurrected this young man. It is worth recalling that Simon Peter also resurrected Dorcas. This was a gift exclusive to the Apostles. Following the establishment of the Scriptural canon, these miraculous sign gifts ceased to be manifested within the church. However, this does not mean that God does not still perform miracles. He does, but not through the acts or efforts of a man. There are no gifts of healing today, but there is a God who heals today. Know the difference.
Verse 12: “And they took away the boy alive, and were not a little comforted.”
Luke's statement, "they… were not a little comforted," suggests their profound joy at the resurrection and return of this esteemed young man. Paul then continued to preach throughout the night until dawn.
Verse 13: “But we, going ahead to the ship, set sail for Assos, intending from there to take Paul on board; for so he had arranged it, intending himself to go by land.”
From Troas, Paul opted for an overland journey to Assos, a distance of approximately twenty miles. This decision allowed him a more direct and possibly reflective route, contrasting with the sea voyage. Meanwhile, Luke, the author of the Book of Acts, along with the rest of their companions, embarked on the ship. Their plan was to rendezvous with Paul at Assos, where he would rejoin them for the onward journey by sea. This separation, though temporary, highlights the various modes of travel available in the ancient world and perhaps Paul's personal preference for certain segments of his missionary journeys.
Verse 14: “ And when he met us at Assos, we took him on board and came to Mitylene.”
Mitylene was the primary city located on the island of Lesbos, situated south of Assos.
Verse 15: “And sailing from there, we arrived the following day opposite Chios; and the next day we crossed over to Samos; and the day following we came to Miletus.”
Setting sail from a point further north, their journey led them south along the picturesque coastline. The destination was Miletus, a significant port city located approximately thirty miles south of Ephesus. This maritime route offered views of the Aegean Sea, with the distant shores of various islands and the rugged Anatolian landscape accompanying their voyage. The decision to travel by sea to Miletus, rather than by land directly from Ephesus, likely offered a more efficient and perhaps safer passage given the challenges of ancient roads and the need for quick movement. Upon arrival in Miletus, the bustling harbor would have presented a vibrant scene of ships, merchants, and travelers from across the Roman world, underscoring the city's importance as a center of trade and communication in the region.
Verse 16: “For Paul had decided to sail past Ephesus so that he would not have to spend time in Asia; for he was hurrying to be in Jerusalem, if possible, on the day of Pentecost.”
Paul was determined to reach Jerusalem before Pentecost, which occurs 50 days after Passover. To facilitate this, he arranged a meeting in Miletus with the elders—also known as pastors or overseers—of the Ephesian church.
Verse 17: “Now from Miletus he sent to Ephesus and called to him the elders of the church.”
These ordained representatives, known as elders, served as overseers and shepherds for the Ephesian congregation within the church of God.
Verse 18: “And when they had come to him, he said to them,
‘You yourselves know, from the first day that I set foot in Asia, how I was with you the whole time,’”
Paul was a faithful and uncompromising witness for Jesus Christ. He boldly proclaimed the entirety of God's Word. Despite facing opposition from Jewish religious leaders, Paul remained steadfast in delivering the full counsel of God.
Verse 19: “serving the Lord with all humility and with tears and with trials which came upon me through the plots of the Jews;”
Paul’s weeping stemmed from three main concerns:
Those who did not know Christ: (cf. Rom. 9:2, 3)
Struggling, immature believers: (2 Cor. 2:4)
The threat of false teachers: (v. 29, 30)
The "through the plots of the Jews" ironically provided the Ephesian elders with the opportunity to spend time with Paul, as it was their plot in Corinth that facilitated this encounter.
He had faced numerous hardships among them, continuing his work despite significant opposition. He endured many temptations, trials of patience and courage, and discouragements that sometimes tempted him, much like Jeremiah, to declare, "I will not speak any more in the name of the Lord". These challenges arose from the constant plotting and malicious intent of the Jews.
Verse 20: “how I did not shrink from declaring to you anything that was profitable, and teaching you publicly and from house to house,”
For three years, Paul extensively taught in Ephesus. His instruction included public lectures at the synagogue and the lecture hall of Tyrannus, as well as private teaching in homes.
Verse 21: “solemnly testifying to both Jews and Greeks about repentance toward God and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Jews and Gentiles alike must approach God through repentance for sin and faith in Jesus Christ. This singular path is required for all. There is only one way to be saved and that is through faith in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and repenting from all sin.
Verse 22: “And now, behold, bound by the Spirit, I am on my way to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there,”
This likely refers to the Holy Spirit's urging, a clear guidance often present in Paul's ministry. Paul would follow the leading of the Spirit regardless of the destination or danger.
Verse 23: “except that the Holy Spirit solemnly testifies to me in every city, saying that chains and afflictions await me.”
Paul was aware of the impending persecution in Jerusalem, though the specifics would remain unknown to him until Agabus's prophecy.
Verse 24: “But I do not make my life of any account nor dear to myself, 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.”
Paul's testimony clearly indicates his unwavering commitment to God's will in his journey to Jerusalem. He states, "I am going to Jerusalem, bound in the spirit, because everywhere I have gone, the Spirit of God has shown me that bonds and affliction await me in Jerusalem." This differs from the instance in Acts 16, where the Spirit of God forbade him from preaching in Asia, instead redirecting him to Europe with roadblocks. In this case, there are no impediments; rather, the Spirit of God is revealing the suffering Paul will face upon arriving in Jerusalem, and Paul fully comprehends this reality.
Verse 25: “And now, behold, I know that all of you, among whom I went about preaching the kingdom, will no longer see my face.”
Paul believed he was seeing the Ephesian elders for the last time. This judgment was based on his assessment of the situation, not on divine revelation. There were ongoing plots against his life by the Jews, and he had received a divine revelation that "chains and afflictions" awaited him. Additionally, Paul intended to focus his future ministry on the western Mediterranean. However, it seems Paul was later able to return to Ephesus after his release from prison in Rome (1 Tim. 1:3).
Verse 26: “ Therefore, I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all.”
Paul believed he would not encounter these individuals again in this lifetime. He was also aware that he had faithfully imparted to them the complete divine counsel. He had declared to them the complete Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ without compromise. He had been faithful.
Verse 27: “For I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole purpose of God.”
Paul proclaimed the entire Gospel to both Jews and Gentiles, never withholding any of its truths. He exercised tact and discretion without ever compromising the good news, which culminates in Jesus Christ, the revelation of God. While our methods of communicating the Gospel may change, the message does not.
Verse 28: “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.”
We are to be constantly on guard both for ourselves and our community of believers. Those responsible for the spiritual lives of others must be willing to involve themselves into the lives of others. Not in an abusive manner, but in caring and compassion.The phrase "His own blood" is noteworthy as it attributes Christ's blood to God. This phrasing is remarkable due to its acknowledgment that the blood of Christ is, in fact, the blood of God.
Verse 29: “I know that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock;”
The Adversary seeks to infiltrate congregations where the Bible is taught and disrupt ministries dedicated to proclaiming God's Word. The Devil is not an ally but an adversary, aiming to impede the preaching of Divine Scripture. Paul cautioned the Ephesians that such incursions would occur, warning of insidious elements within their own fellowship that would sow discord.
Verse 30: “and from among your own selves men will arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after them.”
Paul's prophecy in this verse came to pass when the Ephesian church was afflicted by false teachers, some of whom were apparently church leaders.
Verse 31: “Therefore be watchful, remembering that night and day for a period of three years I did not cease to admonish each one with tears.”
Paul spent three years ministering in Ephesus, a key center in the Roman province of Asia. Two of these years were dedicated to teaching at the school of Tyrannus, where he disseminated the Gospel and addressed theological issues. This extended stay established a strong church foundation in Ephesus and influenced surrounding regions.
Verse 32: “And now I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and to give you the inheritance among all those who have been sanctified.”
God's gracious interactions with humanity are chronicled in the Scriptures, which serve as the "word of His grace." The Bible is the wellspring of spiritual development for all Christians, as it builds them up. Given that the church is "the pillar and support of the truth" (1 Tim. 3:15), its leaders must be well-versed in this truth. We are to preach the word of God and not our notions.
Verse 33: “I have coveted no one’s silver or gold or clothes.”
Unlike the prevalent love of money often seen in false teachers, Paul's ministry was distinctly characterized by its absence.
Verse 34: “You yourselves know that these hands ministered to my own needs and to those who were with me.”
Paul had the right to earn his living by preaching the gospel, as he mentions in 1 Corinthians 9:3–14. On occasion, he did accept financial assistance. However, he frequently chose to work and support himself, enabling him to "present the gospel of Christ without charge."
Verse 35: “In everything I showed you that by laboring in this manner you must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He Himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’’”
This particular quote is the sole direct record of Jesus' earthly ministry found outside of the Gospels. Paul shares a tender and difficult farewell with the Ephesian church elders, men he deeply loves and who reciprocate his affection. Their emotional parting is made more poignant by the knowledge that this will likely be their last meeting.
Verse 36: “And when he had said these things, he knelt down and prayed with them all.”
They parted with a prayer well-suited to the special occasion. He committed them to God, praying for His continued presence among them. This was a joint prayer; he prayed with them all, so they could offer the same petitions for themselves and each other, and learn what to ask of God in his absence.
Verse 37: “And they began to weep aloud and falling on Paul’s neck, they were kissing him,”
Some cultures today continue the ancient Christian practice of the kiss of greeting. “Falling on Paul’s neck” was a typical biblical expression of profound emotion and love.
Verse 38: “being in agony especially over the word which he had spoken, that they would not see his face again. And they were accompanying him to the ship.”
They went with him to the ship, partly to show their respect (accompanying him as far as possible), and partly to extend their time with him. If this was their last meeting, they wanted every moment and to see him off completely. We can assume that at the water's edge, as he boarded, their tears and embraces were repeated, as parting is difficult. However, the comforting presence of Christ, who went with him and remained with them, quickly eased this emotional moment for both sides.
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