Study #19

Recap

In our previous study, we looked at the second half of Acts 19, focusing on how the message of the Gospel confronted the idol-making industry. The spread of Christianity directly challenged those who profited from the worship of false gods, disrupting the existing social and economic order.

This passage reminds us that the Gospel is not only a spiritual truth or a historical event—it is living news that impacts every area of life. It often calls people to rethink their values, priorities, and ways of living in profound and sometimes uncomfortable ways. As the Gospel enters new places, it may challenge or disrupt the values and systems in place.

Introduction

This week, our reading picks up midway through Acts 20. In this passage, we witness a significant farewell as Paul gathers and encourages the elders (leaders and pastors) of the Ephesian church.

This moment functions almost like a “proto-epistle,” reflecting themes and insights we see throughout Paul’s letters. He offers encouragement and instruction with the awareness that this will likely be his final goodbye to these brothers and sisters. He has loved and served alongside them for many years, and a tearful goodbye is earned. Though he is departing, Paul expresses confidence that he is leaving the church in capable hands, even as both he and they face difficult times ahead.

As we read this passage, we’ll see a picture of faithfulness and godly leadership, and be reminded that while the road ahead is not easy, God is in control.

With this in mind, let’s read Acts 20:13-38

Read Acts 20:13-38

(Remember - First read out loud, either one person reads the whole thing, or separate it by verses. After you read through the passage out loud, take a little bit of time to re-read it individually, noting and marking verses, words or phrases that stand out in the story.)

Three Quick Questions

Is there anything that stands out to you as we read through the passage?

Did you learn anything new or surprising about Jesus or God’s character?

Are there any other stories or passages in the Bible that Luke may be subtly referencing? Why is Luke connecting this story to that passage? 




Diving Deeper

1. Paul’s teaching to the Ephesian elders (Presbyters/Pastors/Leaders) begins in verses 18- 21. In this opening paragraph, he begins by reminding them of his work among them, a work filled with humility, tears, and challenges. 

   What is notable about how Paul lived and taught among them? 
Why do you think he begins with this reminder? 

   

2. In verses 22-24, Paul turns from the past and looks to the future. He feels compelled by the spirit to go to Jerusalem, even though he has repeatedly received words of future imprisonment and hardship, yet he is committed to following the path ahead of him. 
What helps Paul press on despite these future hardships?
   
How can Paul's predictions of hardships and trials equip us for our own faith journey?

   

3. In verses 27-32, Paul addresses the leaders directly. 

   What are the instructions he gives to the leaders?

   What does Paul's farewell speech to the Ephesian elders teach us about Christian leadership?

   Are the instructions just for leaders in the church, or are they for the whole church? 

   

4. In verses 36 & 27, Paul finishes his address, then he and the leaders embrace and weep as they send him off. 

   Why do you think Luke gives special attention to this tear-filled send-off?
   
What might it teach us about being in Christian community? 

   In what ways does this chapter underscore the importance of community in the face of the future challenges we can expect? 

   

5. Here in Vancouver, as we move into spring and summer, it often becomes a season of saying goodbye to brothers and sisters who have walked with us in faith for a time.

   How can these goodbyes reveal the Gospel to one another?

Benediction

May the Lord bless you and protect you. May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you. May the Lord show you his favor and give you his peace.

Amen.