Paul’s Farewell to the Ephesians

From Miletus, [Paul] sent to Ephesus [for] the elders of the church.

18 

When they came to him, he said“You know how I lived the whole time [I was] with you, from the first day I arrived in [the province of] Asia. 19 I served the Lord with great humility and with many tears,[fn] especially in the trials that came upon me through the plots of the Jews. 20 vvv I did not shrink back from declaring [anything] that was helpful to you [as] I taught you publicly and from house to house, 21 testifying to Jews and Greeks alike {about} repentance to God and faith in our Lord Jesus.[fn]

22 

And now, vvv compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me vvv [there]. 23 [I] only [know] that in town after town the Holy Spirit warns[fn] vvv that chains and afflictions await me. 24 But I consider my life of no value to me, if only I may finish my course with joy[fn] and [ complete ] the ministry I have received from the Lord Jesus — [ the ministry ] of testifying to the good news of vvv God’s grace.

25 

Now I know that [none of] you among whom vvv I have preached the kingdom of God[fn] will see my face [again]. 26 Therefore I testify to you this day that I [am] innocent of the blood of all [men].[fn] 27 For vvv I did not shrink back vvv from declaring to you the whole will of God.

28 

Therefore[fn] keep watch over yourselves and the entire flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of the Lord and of God,[fn] which He purchased with [His] own blood.[fn] 29 For I know this,[fn] that after my departure, savage wolves will come in among you vvv and will not spare the flock. 30 Even from your own number, men will rise up [and] distort [the truth] to draw away disciples after them. 31 Therefore be alert [and] remember that for three years vvv I never stopped warning each [of you] night and day with tears.

32 

And now I commit you, brothers,[fn] to God and to the word of His grace, which can build [you] up and give you an inheritance among all who are sanctified.

33 

I have not coveted anyone’s silver or gold or clothing. 34 You yourselves know that these hands [of mine] have ministered to my [own] needs and [those of] my companions 35 In everything, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words of the Lord Jesus Himself‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ ”

36 

[When] [Paul] had said this, he knelt down with all of them [and] prayed. 37 They all vvv wept openly [as] they embraced Paul [and] kissed him. 38 They were especially grieved by vvv vvv his statement that they would [never] see his face [again]. Then they accompanied him to the ship. 21