The main part of this chapter focused on Paul's farewell to the Ephesian elders. This was a touching and tearful good-bye, for Paul was taking leave of the leaders of a church he was involved with from its very beginning, had helped build, and had spent most of the last three years with. Expecting that he would not see them again, his message would've included what he felt was most important to leave them with.
He starts by reviewing the characteristics of he service and ministry among them:
- Being an example
- Humility
- Tears and Trials
- Solid Teaching (repentance and faith)
He gives further characteristics of ministry as he talks about going to Jerusalem next:
- Being led by the Spirit
- Going by faith
- Facing hardships (even imprisonment)
- Goal to finish the race and complete the task
- Being a witness, to testify
He concludes by urging them to be shepherds of the flock (watchful and teaching the truth), committing them to the Word for growth and hope, and reminding them that
‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ They PRAYED together and Paul departed.
This passage is a good reminder to evaluate how I am doing in my service and ministry. Am I an example, humble, enduring thru tears and trials, faithful in teaching, led by the Spirit, walking by faith, keeping my eyes on the finish line, and being a witness? When it comes time to say farewell, would it be a touching, tearful, and prayerful good-bye?
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