Acts 20:20

KJV

[And] how I kept back nothing that was profitable [unto you], but have shewed you, and have taught you publickly, and from house to house,

KJV (with Strong's)

And how {G5613} I kept back {G5288} nothing {G3762} that was profitable {G4851} unto you, but {G3361} have shewed {G312} you {G5213}, and {G2532} have taught {G1321} you {G5209} publickly {G1219}, and {G2532} from {G2596} house to house {G3624},

Complete Jewish Bible

You know that I held back nothing that could be helpful to you, and that I taught you both in public and from house to house,

Berean Standard Bible

I did not shrink back from declaring anything that was helpful to you as I taught you publicly and from house to house,

American Standard Version

how I shrank not from declaring unto you anything that was profitable, and teaching you publicly, and from house to house,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In Acts 20:20, the Apostle Paul, addressing the Ephesian elders at Miletus, powerfully summarizes his faithful and comprehensive ministry among them. He asserts that he withheld no beneficial truth, demonstrating and teaching the Gospel both openly in public forums and intimately within private homes, thereby providing a holistic model of pastoral integrity and diligent discipleship.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Acts 20:20 is embedded within Paul's poignant farewell address to the Ephesian elders, whom he had summoned to meet him in Miletus (cf. [Acts 20:17](/acts/20-17 "Paul Summons the Ephesian Elders")). This speech, spanning [Acts 20:18-35](/acts/20-18-35 "Paul's Farewell Address to the Ephesian Elders"), serves as a final charge and a defense of his ministry, offering a profound reflection on his past conduct, a warning about future challenges, and an example for their own leadership. Verse 20 specifically highlights the unreserved and comprehensive nature of his teaching, setting the stage for his subsequent declaration of innocence concerning their spiritual state (cf. [Acts 20:26](/acts/20-26 "Paul's Declaration of Purity from Blood")) and his commitment to proclaiming the [“whole counsel of God”](/acts/20-27 "Paul Declares the Whole Counsel of God"). The address culminates in a moving prayer and farewell, underscoring the deep bond between Paul and these leaders.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul's ministry in Ephesus was one of his most significant and prolonged, lasting approximately three years (cf. [Acts 19:8-10](/acts/19-8-10 "Paul's Ministry in Ephesus")). Ephesus was a major Roman provincial capital and a hub of pagan worship, particularly devoted to Artemis. This environment made Paul's bold and public proclamation of Christ all the more challenging and vital. His decision to meet the elders in Miletus, a port city south of Ephesus, was due to his urgency to reach Jerusalem by Pentecost (cf. [Acts 20:16](/acts/20-16 "Paul's Haste to Reach Jerusalem")). Farewell speeches were a common literary and rhetorical device in the ancient world, often used by significant figures to impart final wisdom, warnings, and blessings. Paul’s address, therefore, functions as a testament to his apostolic integrity and a foundational text for understanding early Christian pastoral leadership, emphasizing diligence, self-sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to truth in a complex cultural landscape.
* **Key Themes:** Acts 20:20 contributes significantly to several key themes within Paul's ministry and the book of Acts. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Pastoral Integrity and Selflessness**. Paul's assertion that he "kept back nothing that was profitable" emphasizes his commitment to the spiritual well-being of the Ephesian believers above personal gain or popularity. This aligns with his later exhortation for the elders to follow his example of hard work and generosity (cf. [Acts 20:33-35](/acts/20-33-35 "Paul's Example of Self-Sufficiency")). Secondly, the verse highlights **Comprehensive and Unreserved Teaching**. Paul's ministry was not partial or selective; he delivered the full scope of God's truth, later summarized as the [“whole counsel of God”](/acts/20-27 "Paul Declares the Whole Counsel of God"). This commitment to complete proclamation is a hallmark of apostolic ministry. Thirdly, it illustrates **Diverse Evangelistic and Discipleship Methods**. The dual approach of teaching "publickly, and from house to house" reveals a strategic and adaptable ministry, reaching both large audiences and individual households, mirroring the early church's practice of gathering [“day by day in the temple and from house to house”](/acts/2-46 "Early Church Practices in Acts 2:46"). This multifaceted approach ensured broad outreach and deep, personal discipleship.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **kept back (Greek, _hypostéllō'_):** From ὑπό (under) and στέλλω (to send, to set), this word literally means "to withhold under (out of sight)," implying a shrinking or cowering. In a figurative sense, as used here, it signifies to conceal, reserve, or draw back from declaring something. Paul vehemently denies any such reservation, emphasizing his complete transparency and courage in proclaiming the Gospel without fear or compromise.
* **profitable (Greek, _symphérō'_):** Derived from σύν (with) and φέρω (to bear), this term means "to bear together," "to contribute," or "to conduce." As a neuter participle used as a noun, it refers to what is advantageous, expedient, or beneficial. Paul's teaching was not about what was easy, popular, or personally gainful, but solely about what genuinely built up, equipped, and led to the spiritual maturity and salvation of his hearers.
* **publickly (Greek, _dēmósios'_):** From δῆμος (the people), this adverb means "in public," "openly," or "commonly." It refers to Paul's ministry conducted in public spaces, such as synagogues, lecture halls (like the school of Tyrannus, [Acts 19:9](/acts/19-9 "Paul Teaches in the School of Tyrannus")), or open forums, ensuring that the message of Christ was accessible to all and proclaimed without secrecy or shame.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you,"**: Paul begins by highlighting the integrity and completeness of his teaching. The phrase "kept back nothing" is a strong negation, emphasizing that he did not withhold any truth, however challenging or unpopular, that would contribute to their spiritual growth and well-being. His ministry was characterized by a fearless and selfless commitment to their ultimate benefit, prioritizing their spiritual health above all else.
* **"but have shewed you, and have taught you publickly,"**: This clause elaborates on the active and open nature of Paul's ministry. "Shewed you" (ἀναγγέλλω, _anangéllō_) implies making known, announcing, or declaring in detail, suggesting a comprehensive revelation of divine truth. "Taught you" (διδάσκω, _didáskō_) refers to systematic instruction and discipleship. The adverb "publickly" (δημοσίᾳ, _dēmósia_) underscores that this teaching was done openly, in public spaces, accessible to all, reflecting Paul's bold and unashamed proclamation of the Gospel.
* **"and from house to house,"**: This final phrase reveals the intimate and personal dimension of Paul's ministry. "From house to house" (κατ' οἴκους, _kat' oíkous_) indicates a systematic, household-by-household approach, signifying personal evangelism, discipleship, and pastoral care within the domestic sphere. This dual strategy of public proclamation and private instruction ensured that the message reached both the masses and individuals on a deeply personal level, fostering genuine community and spiritual formation.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several literary devices to emphasize the thoroughness and integrity of his ministry. **Hyperbole** is evident in the phrase "kept back nothing," which, while not literally meaning every single piece of information, powerfully conveys the idea of complete and unreserved proclamation of all essential truths necessary for their salvation and spiritual growth. This serves to underscore his faithfulness. **Parallelism** is effectively used in the contrasting yet complementary phrases "publickly, and from house to house." This juxtaposition highlights the dual nature of his ministry: broad, public outreach alongside intimate, personal discipleship. This structural balance emphasizes the comprehensive scope of his work. Furthermore, the entire verse functions as a form of **Apologia** or defense, where Paul is not merely stating facts but presenting a compelling case for his blameless conduct and unwavering dedication, setting an example for the elders he is addressing.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 20:20 provides a foundational understanding of faithful pastoral ministry, emphasizing the dual imperatives of comprehensive truth-telling and diligent, adaptable methods. Theologically, it underscores the value of every truth revealed by God for the spiritual profit of believers and the necessity of proclaiming it without fear or favor. It highlights that true spiritual leadership is characterized by self-sacrificial service, prioritizing the spiritual well-being of the flock over personal comfort or popularity. The theme of unreserved proclamation connects to the biblical mandate for ministers to be stewards of God's mysteries, faithfully dispensing all that has been entrusted to them, ensuring that the church is fully equipped for life and godliness.

* [Jeremiah 1:17](/jeremiah/1-17 "God Commands Jeremiah to Speak All His Words")
* [2 Timothy 4:2](/2_timothy/4-2 "Paul Exhorts Timothy to Preach the Word")
* [Colossians 1:28](/colossians/1-28 "Paul's Goal to Present Everyone Mature in Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Paul's declaration in Acts 20:20 serves as an enduring model for all who seek to minister God's truth, whether in formal leadership roles or in daily interactions. It challenges us to examine the depth and breadth of our own commitment to sharing the Gospel and discipling others. Are we holding back any truth that might be "profitable" due to fear of rejection, desire for popularity, or personal discomfort? Paul's example calls for a ministry that is both courageous in public proclamation and compassionate in personal engagement. It reminds us that effective spiritual formation often requires the patient, intimate work of "house to house" discipleship, building relationships and addressing individual needs, alongside the broader reach of public teaching. This verse encourages us to be diligent, comprehensive, and selfless in our efforts to communicate God's truth, always prioritizing the genuine spiritual growth and maturity of those we serve.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life or ministry might you be "keeping back" truth that would be profitable to others, whether out of fear, comfort, or a desire to avoid conflict?**
* **How can you emulate Paul's dual approach of teaching "publickly, and from house to house" in your own sphere of influence, balancing broad proclamation with personal discipleship?**
* **What does it mean to prioritize "what is profitable" for the spiritual growth of others, even when it might be challenging or unpopular?**

### FAQ

**What does Paul mean by "kept back nothing that was profitable"?**

Answer: Paul's statement means that he did not withhold any essential truth or instruction that would be beneficial for the spiritual growth, understanding, and salvation of the Ephesian believers. This includes the full message of the Gospel, principles of Christian living, warnings against error, and exhortations to holiness. He taught with complete transparency and integrity, prioritizing their spiritual welfare above any personal considerations or fears. This contrasts with those who might preach only what is popular or comfortable, or who might compromise the truth for personal gain. Paul's commitment was to declare the [“whole counsel of God”](/acts/20-27 "Paul Declares the Whole Counsel of God") without reservation.

**What is the significance of Paul teaching "publickly, and from house to house"?**

Answer: This phrase highlights the comprehensive and adaptable nature of Paul's ministry strategy. Teaching "publickly" refers to his open proclamation of the Gospel in public forums, such as synagogues, lecture halls (like the school of Tyrannus mentioned in [Acts 19:9](/acts/19-9 "Paul Teaches in the School of Tyrannus")), or market places, reaching a wide audience. Teaching "from house to house" signifies his personal, intimate discipleship and pastoral care within individual homes. This dual approach ensured that the message of Christ was accessible to the masses while also fostering deep, personal spiritual formation and community among believers. It reflects a holistic model of evangelism and discipleship that addresses both broad outreach and individual needs, echoing the practices of the [early church](/acts/2-46 "Early Church Practices in Acts 2:46").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Paul's exemplary ministry in Acts 20:20, characterized by unreserved proclamation and comprehensive teaching, finds its ultimate fulfillment and perfect model in Jesus Christ. Jesus, the Word made flesh, "kept back nothing that was profitable" for humanity's salvation, indeed, He is the very embodiment of all truth and profit (cf. [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "The Word Became Flesh")). He taught publicly in synagogues, on mountainsides, and by the sea, proclaiming the Kingdom of God to large crowds (cf. [Matthew 5-7](/matthew/5-7 "The Sermon on the Mount")). Yet, He also engaged in profound, intimate, "house to house" discipleship with His chosen apostles and individual seekers like Nicodemus (cf. [John 3:1-21](/john/3-1-21 "Jesus and Nicodemus")) and the Samaritan woman (cf. [John 4:1-42](/john/4-1-42 "Jesus and the Samaritan Woman")). Christ's ministry was the perfect blend of public declaration of the Father's will and personal, transformative engagement. His ultimate act of not "keeping back nothing profitable" was His willingness to lay down His life as the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), a sacrifice that is supremely profitable for all who believe (cf. [Philippians 2:5-8](/philippians/2-5-8 "Christ's Humility and Obedience")). Thus, Paul's commitment to faithful, comprehensive ministry is a reflection of the perfect ministry of Christ, who perfectly revealed God and perfectly served humanity.

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

Acts 20:27

For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God.

Acts 5:42

And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.

2 Timothy 4:2

Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.

Acts 20:31

Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.

Colossians 1:28

Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:

Psalms 40:9

I have preached righteousness in the great congregation: lo, I have not refrained my lips, O LORD, thou knowest.

Psalms 40:10

I have not hid thy righteousness within my heart; I have declared thy faithfulness and thy salvation: I have not concealed thy lovingkindness and thy truth from the great congregation.