Acts 20: Encouragement, a Raising, and a Farewell
Paul strengthens the churches, restores a young man to life, and says goodbye to the Ephesian elders.
Summary
Paul travels back through Macedonia and Greece, encouraging the believers along the way. In Troas, while Paul teaches late into the night, a young man named Eutychus falls asleep and drops from a third-floor window; Paul goes down, embraces him, and he is restored to life, bringing great comfort to all. Continuing his journey, Paul meets the elders of the Ephesian church at Miletus for a moving farewell. He reminds them of his example, warns them to guard the flock from false teaching, and commends them to God, recalling that it is more blessed to give than to receive.
Main Characters
- Paul — Encourages the churches, restores Eutychus, and gives a heartfelt farewell to the Ephesian elders.
- Eutychus — A young man who falls from a window and is restored to life through Paul.
- The Ephesian elders — Leaders Paul charges to watch over and shepherd the church faithfully.
Key Verse
Acts 20:24 (WEB)
But these things don’t count; nor do I hold my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to fully testify to the Good News of the grace of God.
Lessons Learned
- Faithful leaders invest in encouraging and strengthening others.
- God brings life and comfort even out of moments of crisis.
- Leaders are called to guard their communities against harmful teaching.
- A life of generous giving reflects the heart of Jesus.
- What does Paul prioritize as he travels among the churches?
- How might the raising of Eutychus have encouraged the believers in Troas?
- What stands out to you about Paul's farewell to the Ephesian elders?
- What does it mean that it is “more blessed to give than to receive”?
- Who has been an encourager in your life, and whom might you encourage?