Scriptural Reference: Acts 20:17-38

Context and Background:
Paul's farewell to the Ephesian elders is a poignant and significant moment in the New Testament, occurring during Paul's third missionary journey. After spending approximately three years in Ephesus, a major center of early Christianity, Paul felt compelled by the Holy Spirit to journey to Jerusalem, despite knowing that hardships awaited him there. Before departing, he summoned the elders of the Ephesian church to meet him in Miletus, a coastal city south of Ephesus, to deliver a final exhortation and farewell.

Content of the Farewell Address:
Paul's address to the Ephesian elders is a heartfelt and solemn discourse, reflecting his deep love and concern for the church. It is the only speech in Acts directed specifically to Christians, providing insight into Paul's pastoral heart and his vision for church leadership.

1. Paul's Ministry Among the Ephesians (Acts 20:18-21):
Paul begins by reminding the elders of his conduct and ministry among them. He emphasizes his humility, the trials he faced, and his unwavering commitment to preaching the gospel. Paul declares, "I served the Lord with great humility and with tears and in the trials that came upon me through the plots of the Jews" (Acts 20:19). He underscores his dedication to teaching both Jews and Greeks about repentance toward God and faith in Jesus Christ.

2. Paul's Imminent Departure and Trials (Acts 20:22-24):
Paul shares his conviction that he must go to Jerusalem, despite the Holy Spirit warning him of impending imprisonment and hardships. He expresses his willingness to sacrifice his life for the sake of the gospel, stating, "But I consider my life of no value to me, if only I may finish my course and complete the ministry I have received from the Lord Jesus—the ministry of testifying to the good news of God’s grace" (Acts 20:24).

3. Exhortation to the Elders (Acts 20:25-31):
Paul charges the elders with the responsibility of shepherding the church, warning them of future challenges. He predicts that "savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock" (Acts 20:29), indicating the threat of false teachers. Paul urges vigilance and faithfulness, reminding them of his own example of tireless labor and watchfulness.

4. Commendation to God and His Word (Acts 20:32):
Paul entrusts the elders to God and the "word of His grace," which he affirms is able to build them up and give them an inheritance among all who are sanctified. This highlights the sufficiency and power of God's Word in sustaining and growing the church.

5. Paul's Personal Example and Final Words (Acts 20:33-35):
Paul reflects on his own life, emphasizing his integrity and selflessness. He reminds the elders of his labor to support himself and others, quoting Jesus' words, "It is more blessed to give than to receive" (Acts 20:35). This serves as a model for the elders to follow in their own ministry.

Emotional Farewell and Departure (Acts 20:36-38):
The farewell concludes with a deeply emotional scene. Paul kneels and prays with the elders, and they all weep as they embrace him, grieved by his declaration that they would not see his face again. This moment underscores the profound bond between Paul and the Ephesian church, as well as the cost of discipleship and leadership in the early church.

Significance:
Paul's farewell to the Ephesian elders is a powerful testament to his apostolic mission and pastoral care. It serves as a timeless exhortation to church leaders to remain faithful, vigilant, and committed to the truth of the gospel. The address encapsulates key themes of Christian leadership, including humility, perseverance, and the centrality of God's Word.