Acts 20:25

KJV

And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} now {G3568}, behold {G2400}, I {G1473} know {G1492} that {G3754} ye {G5210} all {G3956}, among {G1722} whom {G3739} I have gone {G1330} preaching {G2784} the kingdom {G932} of God {G2316}, shall see {G3700} my {G3450} face {G4383} no more {G3765}.

Complete Jewish Bible

“Now, listen! I know that none of you people among whom I have gone about proclaiming the Kingdom will ever see me again.

Berean Standard Bible

Now I know that none of you among whom I have preached the kingdom will see my face again.

American Standard Version

And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I went about preaching the kingdom, shall see my face no more.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 20:25 captures a profoundly poignant moment in the Apostle Paul's ministry as he addresses the elders of the church in Ephesus at Miletus. In this solemn farewell, Paul declares his Spirit-led conviction that he will not see their faces again, signifying the end of his direct earthly ministry among them. This declaration underscores the gravity of his impending journey to Jerusalem, where he anticipates suffering, and serves as a powerful, emotional charge to the Ephesian leaders to faithfully shepherd the flock of God in his absence.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is a pivotal statement within Paul's emotional farewell discourse to the Ephesian elders, whom he had summoned to Miletus (see [Acts 20:17](/acts/20-17 "Acts 20:17 - Paul's Summons to the Ephesian Elders")). The speech, spanning [Acts 20:18-35](/acts/20-18-35 "Acts 20:18-35 - Paul's Farewell Address at Miletus"), is a deeply personal and pastoral address, serving as a spiritual will and testament. Paul recounts his faithful ministry among them, warns them of future dangers (both from within and without), and charges them to guard the flock. His declaration in [Acts 20:25](/acts/20-25 "Acts 20:25 - Paul's Prophecy of Departure") is a somber climax, setting the stage for his final exhortations regarding their future responsibilities and his own willingness to suffer for the gospel. The narrative immediately following this verse describes the elders' profound sorrow and embrace of Paul, highlighting the deep bond they shared (see [Acts 20:36-38](/acts/20-36-38 "Acts 20:36-38 - The Emotional Farewell")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul's third missionary journey was nearing its end, and he was determined to reach Jerusalem by Pentecost (see [Acts 20:16](/acts/20-16 "Acts 20:16 - Paul's Haste to Jerusalem")). He was traveling through regions where he had previously established churches, and the summoning of the Ephesian elders to Miletus, a port city south of Ephesus, was a significant pastoral act. In the Greco-Roman world, farewell speeches were a recognized literary and rhetorical form, often delivered by prominent figures on the eve of their departure or death, conveying final instructions, wisdom, and emotional appeals. Paul's awareness of impending "bonds and afflictions" (as revealed by the Holy Spirit in various cities, [Acts 20:23](/acts/20-23 "Acts 20:23 - Paul's Foreknowledge of Suffering")) was not mere speculation but a prophetic insight, adding immense weight to his words. The "kingdom of God" was a central theme in Jewish and early Christian thought, referring to God's sovereign rule, which was both present in Christ's ministry and future in its full consummation.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several major themes within Acts and Paul's broader theology. Firstly, it highlights Paul's **unwavering commitment to the gospel** and his willingness to suffer for it. Despite knowing the hardships ahead, his resolve to complete his God-given mission remains steadfast, as he states in [Acts 20:24](/acts/20-24 "Acts 20:24 - Paul's Valuing of His Ministry"). Secondly, it emphasizes the **continuity of ministry** and the vital role of local leadership. Paul's impending departure necessitates that the elders take up the mantle of spiritual oversight, underscoring the principle of succession and shared responsibility in the early church. Thirdly, the phrase "preaching the kingdom of God" encapsulates the **centrality of God's sovereign rule** in Paul's message. His ministry was not merely about individual conversion but about the establishment and expansion of God's redemptive reign through Christ, a theme consistent throughout his preaching, from [Acts 19:8](/acts/19-8 "Acts 19:8 - Paul's Bold Preaching in Ephesus") to his final days in Rome (see [Acts 28:31](/acts/28-31 "Acts 28:31 - Paul Preaching the Kingdom of God in Rome")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **know (Greek, _eídō'_):** From G1492, this verb primarily means "to see" (literally or figuratively), but in the perfect tense (as used here implicitly, "I know"), it implies a state of having seen and therefore "to know" or "be aware." Paul's knowledge is not a guess or a feeling, but a settled conviction, likely divinely revealed, indicating a certainty about his future.
* **gone (Greek, _diérchomai'_):** From G1330, meaning "to traverse" or "to go through/throughout." This word emphasizes the extensive and active nature of Paul's missionary work. He didn't just visit; he "went through" and permeated the region, actively engaging in the proclamation of the gospel and the establishment of churches.
* **shall see (Greek, _optánomai'_):** From G3700, this verb denotes "to gaze" or "to see with wide-open eyes, as at something remarkable." It implies a more intentional and significant act of seeing than a mere glance. Paul's statement "shall see my face no more" thus carries a profound sense of finality and the cessation of direct, personal interaction, marking a significant transition in their relationship.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And now, behold,"**: This opening phrase serves as a solemn introduction, drawing the listeners' immediate attention to a weighty declaration. "Behold" (G2400, _idoú_) acts as an imperative, signaling the importance and certainty of what is about to be revealed.
* **"I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God,"**: Paul asserts his personal conviction ("I know") regarding the entire group of elders ("ye all"). The phrase "among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God" defines the context of their relationship—it was built upon Paul's tireless proclamation of God's sovereign rule and saving work, highlighting the spiritual foundation of their bond and his ministry to them.
* **"shall see my face no more."**: This is the core declaration, a prophetic statement of finality. "Shall see my face" (G3700 _optánomai_ and G4383 _prósōpon_) signifies personal presence and interaction. "No more" (G3765 _oukéti_) emphasizes the absolute and permanent cessation of this direct, physical relationship. It is a deeply emotional pronouncement, marking the end of an era for Paul's direct influence in their lives.

#### Literary Devices
Paul's declaration in Acts 20:25 employs several powerful literary devices. The most prominent is **Prophecy**, as Paul foretells a future event—his permanent departure from the Ephesian elders. This isn't a mere prediction but a Spirit-led pronouncement, lending immense authority and gravity to his words. The phrase "shall see my face no more" also utilizes **Metonymy**, where "face" (G4383, _prósōpon_) stands for the entire person or presence, conveying the complete cessation of personal, physical fellowship. Furthermore, the entire address, including this verse, is imbued with **Pathos**, an appeal to emotion. Paul's deep affection for the elders, his shared hardships, and the sorrowful nature of their impending separation create a highly emotional atmosphere, designed to impress upon them the seriousness of his charge and the weight of their responsibility. The solemnity of the moment is amplified by Paul's **Apostolic Authority**, as he speaks not merely as a friend but as an apostle delivering a final, divinely informed message.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 20:25 powerfully articulates the transient nature of even the most impactful human relationships in ministry, while simultaneously emphasizing the enduring nature of God's kingdom and the continuity of His work through faithful stewards. Paul's declaration of his impending absence underscores the principle that the message of the gospel and the mission of the church transcend any single individual, no matter how gifted or foundational. It highlights the divine providence that guides the steps of God's servants, even into suffering, and the necessity of passing the torch of leadership. The "kingdom of God" that Paul preached is the ultimate reality, a spiritual reign that continues to expand regardless of the presence or absence of any particular evangelist or apostle. This verse serves as a poignant reminder that while human instruments are vital, the ultimate power and authority reside with God, who ensures His purposes are fulfilled.

* [2 Timothy 4:6-7](/2_timothy/4-6-7 "2 Timothy 4:6-7 - Paul's Readiness to Depart")
* [Philippians 1:21](/philippians/1-21 "Philippians 1:21 - To Live is Christ, to Die is Gain")
* [Hebrews 13:14](/hebrews/13-14 "Hebrews 13:14 - Our Lasting City")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Paul's farewell in Acts 20:25 is a profound lesson in stewardship, sacrifice, and succession for all believers, particularly those in leadership. It challenges us to consider the urgency and intentionality with which we live out our calling, recognizing that our time and opportunities are finite. Just as Paul faithfully "preached the kingdom of God" without reservation, we are called to be diligent in proclaiming the good news of Christ's reign and living lives that reflect its values. This verse also compels us to embrace the reality of transitions in life and ministry, understanding that God raises up new leaders and empowers His church to continue His work beyond any single individual. We are to invest deeply in others, equipping them for faithful service, so that the mission of God endures across generations. It reminds us that while partings can be sorrowful, our ultimate hope is in the enduring presence of Christ and the eternal nature of His kingdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Paul's deep conviction about his future influence your understanding of divine guidance in your own life?**
* **In what ways are you actively "preaching the kingdom of God" in your daily life, both through your words and your actions?**
* **What steps are you taking to invest in and empower others, ensuring the continuity of faith and ministry beyond your own direct involvement?**
* **How do you face the reality of goodbyes and transitions in your life, trusting in God's ongoing work and presence?**

### FAQ
**Why was Paul so certain he would not see them again? Was this a prophecy or just a strong feeling?**

Answer: Paul's certainty was not merely a strong feeling but a Spirit-led conviction, functioning as a prophecy. Throughout his journey to Jerusalem, the Holy Spirit had been explicitly warning him of impending "bonds and afflictions" (see [Acts 20:23](/acts/20-23 "Acts 20:23 - Paul's Foreknowledge of Suffering")). This consistent divine revelation gave him a clear understanding of the dangers ahead, which he believed would prevent his return to Ephesus. His declaration is presented with the authority of a divinely informed statement, not a personal speculation.

**What does "preaching the kingdom of God" entail for Paul?**

Answer: For Paul, "preaching the kingdom of God" was the core of his gospel message. It encompassed proclaiming God's sovereign rule, His redemptive plan through Jesus Christ, and the call to repentance and faith. It was not just about individual salvation but about submitting to God's active reign in one's life and the world. This theme permeated his ministry, from his early evangelism (e.g., [Acts 19:8](/acts/19-8 "Acts 19:8 - Paul's Bold Preaching in Ephesus")) to his final days under house arrest in Rome (see [Acts 28:31](/acts/28-31 "Acts 28:31 - Paul Preaching the Kingdom of God in Rome")). It involved teaching about God's authority, justice, grace, and the new life available through Christ, who inaugurated this kingdom.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 20:25, while a poignant moment of human farewell, finds its ultimate resonance and fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Paul's willingness to face suffering and separation for the sake of "preaching the kingdom of God" mirrors Christ's own journey to Jerusalem, where He steadfastly set His face towards the cross, knowing the suffering that awaited Him (see [Luke 9:51](/luke/9-51 "Luke 9:51 - Jesus' Resolute Journey to Jerusalem")). Just as Paul declared he would see the elders' faces "no more," Jesus ascended to the Father, physically departing from His disciples, yet promising the coming of the Holy Spirit to empower them for the continuation of His mission (see [Acts 1:8-9](/acts/1-8-9 "Acts 1:8-9 - The Great Commission and Ascension")). The "kingdom of God" that Paul preached is the very kingdom inaugurated by Christ's life, death, and resurrection, and which continues to expand through the power of the Spirit. Paul's sacrifice, though significant, points to the ultimate sacrifice of the [Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), whose physical absence is overcome by His spiritual presence and ongoing reign (see [Matthew 28:20](/matthew/28-20 "Matthew 28:20 - Jesus' Promise of Presence")). Thus, Paul's farewell, though sorrowful, is ultimately a testament to the enduring and ever-present Lord of the Kingdom, who ensures His work continues until His glorious return (see [Revelation 11:15](/revelation/11-15 "Revelation 11:15 - The Kingdom of the World Becomes the Kingdom of Our Lord")).

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 28:31

Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him.

Acts 20:38

Sorrowing most of all for the words which he spake, that they should see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship.

Matthew 4:23

¶ And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.

Luke 9:60

Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God.

Romans 15:23

But now having no more place in these parts, and having a great desire these many years to come unto you;

Galatians 1:22

And was unknown by face unto the churches of Judaea which were in Christ:

Matthew 13:52

Then said he unto them, Therefore every scribe [which is] instructed unto the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man [that is] an householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure [things] new and old.