A Faithful Servant’s Farewell

“That I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry…” (Acts 20:24)

Acts Chapter 20 stands as a solemn and sacred portion of Holy Scripture. It is filled with the pathos of parting, the strength of apostolic conviction, and the faithful labors of a servant of Jesus Christ whose life was wholly given to the Gospel. In this chapter, we find the Apostle Paul not only traveling across the lands to preach and confirm the saints, but also pouring out his soul in farewell to the elders of the church at Ephesus.

Let us consider the sacred truths this chapter presents and examine our own hearts in light of them.

1. Paul’s Unceasing Labor in the Gospel

“And after the uproar was ceased, Paul called unto him the disciples, and embraced them…” (v.1)

Though the tumult at Ephesus had just subsided (Acts 19), Paul did not grow weary nor idle. He continued his missionary journey, strengthening the churches, encouraging the brethren, and laboring in word and doctrine. Herein is a lesson to the faithful: the work of the Lord is not paused by the troubles of the world.

Let us not be discouraged by opposition, nor faint in tribulation. The faithful servant of God presses on—preaching, teaching, praying, and comforting, knowing that his labor is not in vain in the Lord (1 Cor. 15:58).

2. The Raising of Eutychus – The God of Mercy and Power

“And there sat in a window a certain young man named Eutychus… and was taken up dead.” (v.9)

In Troas, the Apostle preached late into the night. A young man, overcome with sleep, fell from the third loft and was taken up dead. But Paul, embracing him, said, “Trouble not yourselves; for his life is in him.” (v.10)

This miraculous raising is a token of God’s mercy, even in times of human weakness. It reminds us that the Lord is mighty to save and quick to restore. Even when our spiritual strength wanes, when we grow weary or distracted, the Lord is gracious to revive the fainting soul.

May we be stirred not to spiritual slumber, but to watchfulness, lest we fall. And if we have fallen, let us rise again through the mercy of our Redeemer.

3. Paul’s Farewell to the Ephesian Elders – A Shepherd’s Heart

“Ye know, from the first day that I came into Asia… I have been with you at all seasons…” (v.18)

In one of the most tender and solemn scenes in the New Testament, Paul gathers the elders of the church at Miletus and delivers a heartfelt address. He rehearses his manner of life among them: his humility, his tears, his trials, and his unceasing labors. He declares that he has “kept back nothing that was profitable,” but taught them publicly and from house to house (v.20).

He gives them solemn charge: “Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers…” (v.28)

This charge remains vital to all who lead, teach, or influence others in the faith. Pastors, parents, elders, and ministers must guard the flock with care and vigilance, for grievous wolves still enter in, not sparing the flock.

Let us also note Paul’s own testimony:

“But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy…” (v.24)

O, what holy resolve! Here is the secret of steadfastness: Paul’s life was surrendered to Christ, and his only aim was to finish well. He did not seek ease or safety, but to be faithful unto death. May the Lord grant us such singleness of heart!

4. The Tears of Parting – Love in the Body of Christ

“And they all wept sore, and fell on Paul’s neck, and kissed him…” (v.37)

The chapter ends not with fanfare, but with tears. The saints at Ephesus wept, for they would see Paul’s face no more. They mourned the parting of one who had fed them the bread of life, who had loved them in truth, and who had warned them night and day with tears.

This scene reminds us that the bonds of Christian love are deep and sacred. Those who serve together, suffer together, and grow together in Christ form a holy fellowship—a communion of saints. When such ties are broken by time, distance, or death, there is sorrow. But it is a sorrow filled with hope, for we shall meet again at the feet of Jesus.

Conclusion: Let Us Be Found Faithful

Acts 20 challenges every believer to live a life of purpose, of sacrifice, and of faithfulness.

Let us labor as Paul did—with humility and diligence.
Let us cherish the Word of God and feed the flock faithfully.
Let us warn and watch, guard and guide, not for our own gain, but for the glory of God.
Let us weep with those who weep, and love the brethren sincerely.
And may we each say, with holy courage:

“That I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.” (Acts 20:24)