Acts 20:16-18, 28-36 (Epistle)
- 16
- For Paul had decided to sail past Ephesus, so that he would not have to spend time in Asia; for he was hurrying to be at Jerusalem, if possible, on the Day of Pentecost.
- 17
- From Miletus he sent to Ephesus and called for the elders of the church.
- 18
- And when they had come to him, he said to them: “You know, from the first day that I came to Asia, in what manner I always lived among you,
- 28
- Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood.
- 29
- For I know this, that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock.
- 30
- Also from among yourselves men will rise up, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after themselves.
- 31
- Therefore watch, and remember that for three years I did not cease to warn everyone night and day with tears.
- 32
- So now, brethren, I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified.
- 33
- I have coveted no one’s silver or gold or apparel.
- 34
- Yes, you yourselves know that these hands have provided for my necessities, and for those who were with me.
- 35
- I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”
- 36
- And when he had said these things, he knelt down and prayed with them all.