November 16, 2024
DAILY BIBLE READING – Acts Chapter 20
1 And after the uproar was ceased, Paul called unto him the disciples, and embraced them, and departed for to go into Macedonia.
2 And when he had gone over those parts, and had given them much exhortation, he came into Greece,
3 And there abode three months. And when the Jews laid wait for him, as he was about to sail into Syria, he purposed to return through Macedonia.
4 And there accompanied him into Asia Sopater of Berea; and of the Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus; and Gaius of Derbe, and Timotheus; and of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus.
5 These going before tarried for us at Troas.
6 And we sailed away from Philippi after the days of unleavened bread, and came unto them to Troas in five days; where we abode seven days.
7 And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight.
8 And there were many lights in the upper chamber, where they were gathered together.
9 And there sat in a window a certain young man named Eutychus, being fallen into a deep sleep: and as Paul was long preaching, he sunk down with sleep, and fell down from the third loft, and was taken up dead.
10 And Paul went down, and fell on him, and embracing him said, Trouble not yourselves; for his life is in him.
11 When he therefore was come up again, and had broken bread, and eaten, and talked a long while, even till break of day, so he departed.
12 And they brought the young man alive, and were not a little comforted.
13 And we went before to ship, and sailed unto Assos, there intending to take in Paul: for so had he appointed, minding himself to go afoot.
14 And when he met with us at Assos, we took him in, and came to Mitylene.
15 And we sailed thence, and came the next day over against Chios; and the next day we arrived at Samos, and tarried at Trogyllium; and the next day we came to Miletus.
16 For Paul had determined to sail by Ephesus, because he would not spend the time in Asia: for he hasted, if it were possible for him, to be at Jerusalem the day of Pentecost.
17 And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the church.
18 And when they were come to him, he said unto them, Ye know, from the first day that I came into Asia, after what manner I have been with you at all seasons,
19 Serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and temptations, which befell me by the lying in wait of the Jews:
20 And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have shewed you, and have taught you publicly, and from house to house,
21 Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.
22 And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there:
23 Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me.
24 But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.
25 And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more.
26 Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men.
27 For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God.
28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.
29 For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.
30 Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.
31 Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.
32 And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.
33 I have coveted no man’s silver, or gold, or apparel.
34 Yea, ye yourselves know, that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me.
35 I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.
36 And when he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all.
37 And they all wept sore, and fell on Paul’s neck, and kissed him,
38 Sorrowing most of all for the words which he spake, that they should see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship.
King James Version. Public Domain
Commentary
Introduction
In Acts Chapter 20, Paul continues his journey, taking him from Macedonia through Greece to Troas and finally to Miletus. This chapter highlights the Apostle’s deep connection with the believers and culminates in a moving farewell speech to the elders of Ephesus. Paul senses that he will face persecution and suffering in Jerusalem, yet he is prepared to fulfill his ministry to the end. This passage underscores Paul’s dedication and his sense of responsibility for the young church.
Commentary
Acts 20 provides insight into Paul’s heartfelt attitude and dedication. It begins with his encouragement to the believers and showcases his passion for proclaiming the Gospel. The story of Eutychus, who falls asleep during Paul’s lengthy sermon and subsequently falls out of a window, illustrates both the dangers and the harsh life of early Christians. On the other hand, it also demonstrates the power of God as Paul raises the young man back to life.
Particularly significant is the farewell speech to the elders of Ephesus. Paul urges them to remain vigilant and warns them of the challenges that will face the congregation after his departure. He speaks openly about the temptations and dangers posed by false teachers who could threaten the church from both within and without. This speech is not only a poignant testimony of his ministry but also a call to the congregation to remain steadfast in their faith. Paul emphasizes the selflessness of his service and the example he sets for the elders and the church.
Summary
Acts 20 describes the final leg of Paul’s third missionary journey and concludes with his heartfelt farewell to the elders of the Ephesian church. Paul travels through Macedonia and Greece, strengthening the believers and reviving the young Eutychus in Troas, who fell out of a window during a long sermon. On his way to Jerusalem, Paul stops in Miletus, where he calls the Ephesian elders to meet him. In his farewell speech, he reminds them of his faithful proclamation of the Gospel and urges them to protect their flock from false teachers. Deeply moved, the elders bid farewell to Paul, knowing they will likely never see him again. This chapter highlights Paul’s willingness to sacrifice and his loyalty, as well as his concern for the young Christian community.
WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 75—Before Annas and the Court of Caiaphas
This chapter is based on Matthew 26:57-75; Matthew 27:1; Mark 14:53-72; Mark 15:1; Luke 22:54-71; John 18:13-27.
Read online here
Commentary
Introduction
Chapter 75 describes the events when Jesus stands trial in the houses of Annas and Caiaphas. Here, he is mocked, ridiculed, and subjected to an illegitimate trial that is intended to result in his death. The account highlights the profound contrasts between Jesus’ majestic demeanor and the cruelty of his opponents. The insight into how Jesus endures contempt and suffering without anger demonstrates his unwavering obedience to the Father’s will and his boundless compassion for humanity.
Commentary
In this trial scene, Jesus’ inner strength becomes particularly evident. He stands in unwavering calm before his accusers while being insulted and physically abused. The priests, entangled in their malice, do everything they can to convict Jesus of blasphemy and portray his actions as rebellious. However, Jesus’ demeanor, his wise restraint, and his words expose the depravity of his enemies and ultimately lead them to their own indictment. Peter’s denial of Jesus highlights the human weakness that affects all believers and the failure that can occur without spiritual vigilance. This chapter calls for recognizing the importance of faith strength, obedience, and willingness to sacrifice, especially in moments of greatest trial.
Summary
Chapter 75 describes how Jesus is brought to trial in the night following his arrest by Annas and Caiaphas. As Jesus endures unfounded accusations and mistreatment, he exhibits unwavering composure and gentleness. The Jewish leaders strive to construct a charge against him that would be acceptable to both the Romans and the Jewish people, treating him as a criminal despite finding no guilt in him. In the end, Jesus is condemned to death while contempt and slander continue. Peter, who had previously spoken boldly, denies Jesus out of fear. The events illustrate Jesus’ unconditional dedication to his divine mission and the ultimate failure of the people who condemn him.
(Visited 1 times, 1 visits today)