Paul's Farewell to the Ephesian Elders

Context & Setting

• Main Biblical Reference: Acts 20:17–38
• Historical Period: The apostolic era of the early church (1st century AD)
• Geographic Location: Miletus (meeting place) and Ephesus (the elders’ home church), in Roman Asia Minor
• Key Characters: Paul; the Ephesian elders (also called overseers); the Holy Spirit; “savage wolves” (false teachers, as a warning)

The Narrative

The Beginning:
As Paul journeys toward Jerusalem, he stops at Miletus and sends for the elders of the church in Ephesus. When they arrive, he reminds them of the manner of his ministry among them—serving the Lord with humility, tears, and perseverance through opposition.

The Middle:
Paul declares that he has publicly and privately taught “repentance toward God and faith in our Lord Jesus,” and that he is now compelled to go to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen except that suffering awaits him. He testifies that he has not held back what was profitable, and he summarizes his calling as bearing witness to “the gospel of the grace of God.” Then he warns the elders that after his departure fierce threats will arise—both from outside and from within—seeking to distort the truth and draw disciples away. He urges the leaders to keep watch over themselves and the flock, recognizing that God obtained the church “with his own blood.”

The End:
Paul entrusts them to God and to the word of His grace, emphasizing his integrity: he did not covet wealth, but labored to help the weak and modeled generosity. After praying together, the elders weep and embrace him, grieved especially because he said they would not see his face again. They accompany him to the ship, and Paul departs.

Theological Meaning

This farewell highlights God’s shepherding care for the church through appointed leaders who must guard both their own lives and the community’s teaching. Paul frames ministry as faithful witness to Christ’s grace rather than personal gain, and he places ultimate confidence in God’s sustaining word. The passage also underscores the preciousness of the church, described as belonging to God through a costly redemption, and it acknowledges that spiritual danger and suffering accompany the church’s mission while God remains faithful.

Historical & Cultural Insight

Miletus was a significant coastal port in Roman Asia, making it a practical meeting point for Paul’s traveling party and the Ephesian elders. In the Greco-Roman world, farewell speeches commonly included a review of past conduct, warnings about future threats, and final exhortations—features that align closely with Acts 20 and help explain the structured, solemn tone of Paul’s address.

Key Memory Verse

“Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock…” — Acts 20:28