Acts 20:17 Meaning and Explanation
“And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the church.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →From Miletus Paul sends to Ephesus and summons the elders of the church to come to him.
What Does Acts 20:17 Mean?
Since Paul cannot go to Ephesus, Ephesus comes to him: messengers cover the thirty miles, and the elders make the journey down to the harbor at Miletus. What follows (vv. 18-35) is the only speech of Paul in Acts spoken to believers — a shepherd's farewell to shepherds.
With chains ahead of him, Paul's first care is the flock's future, so he summons not crowds or patrons but the men charged to watch over the church. The well-being of God's people has always rested on faithful, watchful care, and the risen Christ still tends his flock through those he sets over it (1 Pet 5:2-4).
Acts 20:17 in the Original Language
presbyteros (πρεσβύτερος), 'elders' -- literally an older man; one entrusted with a congregation's spiritual care.
Frequently Asked Questions About Acts 20:17
What does Acts 20:17 mean?
From Miletus Paul sends to Ephesus and summons the elders of the church to come to him.