Acts 20:18

KJV

And when they were come to him, he said unto them, Ye know, from the first day that I came into Asia, after what manner I have been with you at all seasons,

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} when {G5613} they were come {G3854} to {G4314} him {G846}, he said {G2036} unto them {G846}, Ye {G5210} know {G1987}, from {G575} the first {G4413} day {G2250} that {G575}{G3739} I came {G1910} into {G1519} Asia {G773}, after what manner {G4459} I have been {G1096} with {G3326} you {G5216} at all {G3956} seasons {G5550},

Complete Jewish Bible

When they arrived, he said to them, “You yourselves know how, from the first day I set foot in the province of Asia, I was with you the whole time,

Berean Standard Bible

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.

American Standard Version

And when they were come to him, he said unto them, Ye yourselves know, from the first day that I set foot in Asia, after what manner I was with you all the time,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 20:18 marks the beginning of Paul's deeply personal and poignant farewell address to the Ephesian elders at Miletus. In this verse, Paul immediately establishes a foundation of trust and credibility by appealing to their direct, firsthand knowledge of his consistent conduct, character, and unwavering commitment to ministry from the very first day he arrived in the Roman province of Asia. This opening statement sets the tone for his final charge, emphasizing the integrity and transparency that defined his apostolic service among them.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Acts 20:18 initiates a significant discourse, often called Paul's "Miletus Farewell," which spans from [Acts 20:18](/acts/20-18 "Acts 20:18 - Paul's Farewell to Ephesian Elders") to [Acts 20:38](/acts/20-38 "Acts 20:38 - Paul's Emotional Departure"). This speech is unique in Acts as it is the only one delivered by Paul to Christian leaders, not to an evangelistic audience. It immediately follows Paul's decision to bypass Ephesus to hasten his journey to Jerusalem, where he anticipated suffering ([Acts 20:16](/acts/20-16 "Acts 20:16 - Paul's Haste to Jerusalem"), [Acts 20:22-23](/acts/20-22-23 "Acts 20:22-23 - Paul's Journey to Jerusalem and Prophecies of Suffering")). Having sent for the Ephesian elders to meet him in Miletus, Paul begins by grounding his exhortations in their shared history, making his past conduct the bedrock of his present appeal and future warnings. This personal appeal underscores the deep relational bond Paul had cultivated with these leaders during his extensive ministry.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul's meeting with the Ephesian elders at Miletus, a prominent port city about 30 miles south of Ephesus, highlights the practicalities and perils of early Christian missionary travel. Paul was on his third missionary journey, a journey marked by significant evangelistic success and considerable opposition, particularly in Ephesus ([Acts 19](/acts/19 "Acts 19 - Paul's Ministry in Ephesus")). His ministry in Ephesus had been exceptionally fruitful, lasting for "two years, so that all they which dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks" ([Acts 19:10](/acts/19-10 "Acts 19:10 - Paul's Extensive Ministry in Asia")). The elders (πρεσβύτεροι, *presbyteroi*) were the appointed spiritual leaders of the Ephesian church, responsible for its oversight and shepherding. Their journey to Miletus at Paul's summons demonstrates their respect and the gravity of the occasion. Culturally, such farewell addresses from a respected mentor to his disciples were common in the ancient world, often serving as a final testament and charge, making Paul's words here particularly weighty and memorable.

* **Key Themes:** This verse introduces several key themes that resonate throughout Paul's Miletus discourse and the broader book of Acts. Firstly, it emphasizes **Apostolic Integrity and Example**, as Paul presents his own life and ministry as a transparent model for the elders to emulate. His appeal to their personal knowledge of his conduct underscores the importance of a leader's character aligning with their teaching, a theme crucial for effective ministry ([1 Timothy 4:12](/1_timothy/4-12 "1 Timothy 4:12 - Paul's Charge to Timothy")). Secondly, the phrase "at all seasons" highlights **Consistent and Enduring Service**, demonstrating that true ministry is marked by unwavering dedication regardless of circumstances. This consistency built trust and validated his message, setting a standard for the elders' own perseverance in the face of future challenges ([Acts 20:24](/acts/20-24 "Acts 20:24 - Paul's Resolve to Finish His Race")). Finally, this verse implicitly introduces the theme of **Pastoral Accountability**, as Paul's transparent life serves as a benchmark against which the elders' future ministry will be measured, preparing them for the solemn charge he is about to give regarding their responsibility to "feed the church of God" ([Acts 20:28](/acts/20-28 "Acts 20:28 - Charge to the Ephesian Elders")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **know (Greek, _epístamai'_):** G1987. This verb signifies a deep, comprehensive understanding or acquaintance, not merely superficial awareness. It implies that the Ephesian elders had put their minds upon Paul's conduct and had come to fully comprehend and be intimately familiar with his manner of life and ministry. It suggests an experiential knowledge gained through prolonged observation and interaction, making their testimony to his integrity highly credible.
* **been (Greek, _gínomai'_):** G1096. While often translated as "to become" or "to come into being," in this context, "been" refers to Paul's consistent presence and manner of existence among them. It denotes his entire comportment, his way of life, and his continuous activity. This word emphasizes the reality and duration of his conduct, highlighting that his character was not a fleeting performance but a sustained reality.
* **manner (Greek, _pōs'_):** G4459. This interrogative particle, used here indirectly, refers to "in what way" or "after what fashion." It encompasses the totality of Paul's conduct—his actions, attitudes, methods, and the very ethos of his ministry. It invites the elders to recall the observable quality of his service, implying that his life was an open book, transparent and consistent in every aspect.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And when they were come to him, he said unto them,"**: This clause sets the scene for Paul's discourse. The elders, having traveled from Ephesus to Miletus at Paul's request, are now gathered before him. Paul, as the apostolic authority and spiritual father, initiates the conversation, underscoring the gravity and intentionality of this farewell meeting.
* **"Ye know,"**: Paul immediately appeals to the elders' personal, firsthand knowledge and experience. This is not an assertion he needs to prove, but a shared truth they can all affirm. This direct address establishes a foundation of credibility and trust, making his subsequent words resonate with greater authority and intimacy.
* **"from the first day that I came into Asia,"**: This phrase emphasizes the temporal scope and consistency of Paul's conduct. From the very beginning of his ministry in the Roman province of Asia (of which Ephesus was the capital), his behavior had been uniform and exemplary. It highlights the sustained nature of his integrity, not just isolated acts of virtue.
* **"after what manner I have been with you at all seasons,"**: This is the core of Paul's opening statement. "After what manner" (G4459, *pōs*) refers to the quality and character of his presence and ministry—his actions, attitudes, and the way he lived among them. "At all seasons" (G3956 *pâs* "all," G5550 *chrónos* "time/season") underscores the unwavering and continuous nature of his dedication, regardless of circumstances or challenges. It speaks to his steadfastness, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the Gospel and the flock.

#### Literary Devices
Paul's opening statement in Acts 20:18 employs several effective literary devices. The immediate appeal, "**Ye know**," is a form of **Apostrophe**, directly addressing the elders and drawing them into the discourse by invoking their shared experience. This also functions as a powerful use of **Ethos**, where Paul establishes his credibility and moral character as the foundation for his upcoming exhortations. By reminding them of his consistent conduct "from the first day" and "at all seasons," he builds a strong case for his authority, not based on hierarchical power, but on lived integrity and faithful service. There is also an implied **Repetition** in the phrase "at all seasons," suggesting a pattern of consistent, transparent behavior that was observable over a prolonged period. This consistency serves as a **Model** for the elders, implicitly challenging them to maintain a similar standard in their own ministry. Furthermore, this opening subtly provides **Foreshadowing** for the solemn and challenging nature of the subsequent discourse, as Paul's blameless past prepares the ground for his urgent warnings about future difficulties and false teachers.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 20:18 serves as a profound theological statement on the nature of authentic Christian leadership. Paul's appeal to his transparent and consistent conduct underscores that effective ministry is not merely about eloquent speech or miraculous power, but fundamentally about character and integrity. His life was an open book, a living sermon that corroborated his preached message. This principle resonates deeply with the biblical emphasis on leaders being examples to the flock, not lording over them, but serving with humility and blamelessness. Paul's unwavering dedication "at all seasons" points to the necessity of perseverance and faithfulness in ministry, acknowledging that challenges will come, but the call to serve remains constant. This verse implicitly teaches that the credibility of the Gospel message is intrinsically linked to the integrity of those who proclaim and embody it.

* [1 Corinthians 11:1](/1_corinthians/11-1 "1 Corinthians 11:1 - Paul's Call to Imitation")
* [1 Peter 5:2-3](/1_peter/5-2-3 "1 Peter 5:2-3 - Shepherding the Flock of God")
* [2 Timothy 4:7-8](/2_timothy/4-7-8 "2 Timothy 4:7-8 - Paul's Good Fight and Finished Race")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 20:18 offers a powerful and enduring challenge for all believers, particularly those in leadership positions within the church. Paul's willingness to invite scrutiny of his entire ministry, from its inception, sets an incredibly high standard for transparency and accountability. We are called to live lives that are consistent with the Gospel we proclaim, where our actions align with our words, and our character stands as a testament to the transformative power of Christ. This means cultivating integrity not just in public, but "at all seasons"—in times of ease and difficulty, success and struggle, when observed and when unseen. For leaders, this verse is a reminder that genuine influence flows from authentic character and a consistent, self-giving commitment to serving others. For all believers, it encourages a lifestyle of faithful endurance, knowing that our witness is built on the daily, unwavering demonstration of Christ's life within us.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways does my daily conduct reflect the faith I profess, both in public and private "seasons" of life?**
* **If those I lead or serve were asked about my "manner" of life, what would they truthfully say about my consistency and integrity?**
* **How can I cultivate a deeper, more consistent commitment to serving others, even when circumstances are challenging or unrewarding?**
* **What specific areas of my life might need greater transparency or alignment with my Christian convictions?**

### FAQ

**Why did Paul meet the elders in Miletus instead of going directly to Ephesus?**

Answer: Paul's decision to meet the Ephesian elders in Miletus, approximately 30 miles south of Ephesus, was primarily a matter of time and urgency. [Acts 20:16](/acts/20-16 "Acts 20:16 - Paul's Haste to Jerusalem") explicitly states that Paul "hasted, if it were possible for him, to be at Jerusalem the day of Pentecost." A direct visit to Ephesus, a large and influential city where he had spent over two years, would have inevitably involved significant delays due to the many relationships and pastoral responsibilities he had there. By summoning the elders to Miletus, he could convey his final instructions and farewells without being sidetracked from his pressing journey to Jerusalem, where he believed the Holy Spirit was leading him, despite forewarnings of suffering ([Acts 20:22-23](/acts/20-22-23 "Acts 20:22-23 - Paul's Journey to Jerusalem and Prophecies of Suffering")). This strategic choice allowed for a focused, impactful meeting while keeping him on schedule.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Acts 20:18 describes Paul's exemplary conduct as a model for Christian leadership, its ultimate fulfillment and perfect embodiment are found in the person and ministry of Jesus Christ. Paul's appeal to his consistent "manner" of being among the Ephesian elders, "at all seasons," powerfully mirrors the flawless and unwavering integrity of Christ's own earthly ministry. Jesus consistently lived out the truth He proclaimed, demonstrating perfect humility ([Philippians 2:5-8](/philippians/2-5-8 "Philippians 2:5-8 - Christ's Humility and Exaltation")), selfless service ([Mark 10:45](/mark/10-45 "Mark 10:45 - The Son of Man Came to Serve")), and unwavering obedience to the Father's will ([John 8:29](/john/8-29 "John 8:29 - Jesus Always Does the Father's Will")) throughout His life. Unlike Paul, whose integrity, though profound, was still that of a fallen man, Christ's conduct was utterly blameless and without blemish, making Him the perfect Lamb of God ([1 Peter 1:18-19](/1_peter/1-18-19 "1 Peter 1:18-19 - Redemption Through Christ's Blood")). Paul’s life, as an apostle, was a reflection of Christ's perfect example, urging believers to "be imitators of me, as I am of Christ" ([1 Corinthians 11:1](/1_corinthians/11-1 "1 Corinthians 11:1 - Paul's Call to Imitation")). Thus, Paul's transparent and consistent ministry ultimately points to the One who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, whose entire existence was a perfect demonstration of God's love and righteousness.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Thessalonians 1:5

For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake.

1 Thessalonians 1:6

¶ And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost:

Acts 19:1

¶ And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples,

Acts 18:19

And he came to Ephesus, and left them there: but he himself entered into the synagogue, and reasoned with the Jews.

Acts 19:10

And this continued by the space of two years; so that all they which dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks.

2 Thessalonians 3:7

For yourselves know how ye ought to follow us: for we behaved not ourselves disorderly among you;

2 Thessalonians 3:9

Not because we have not power, but to make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us.