Acts 20:26

KJV

Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I [am] pure from the blood of all [men].

KJV (with Strong's)

Wherefore {G1352} I take {G3143} you {G5213} to record {G3143} this {G1722}{G4594} day {G2250}, that {G3754} I {G1473} am pure {G2513} from {G575} the blood {G129} of all {G3956} men.

Complete Jewish Bible

Therefore, I testify on this day that I am innocent of the blood of all.

Berean Standard Bible

Therefore I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all men.

American Standard Version

Wherefore I testify unto you this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In Acts 20:26, Paul delivers a profound declaration of his blamelessness before God and the Ephesian elders, solemnly affirming that he is "pure from the blood of all men." This statement encapsulates his unwavering commitment to faithfully proclaiming the entirety of God's truth, thereby absolving himself of responsibility for the spiritual fate of those who might reject the gospel or stray from the faith due to his negligence or silence. It serves as both a personal testimony of integrity and a powerful charge to those he leaves behind regarding their own pastoral accountability.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within Paul's poignant farewell address to the Ephesian elders at Miletus, a deeply emotional and significant moment recorded in [Acts 20:17-38](/acts/20-17-38 "Paul's Farewell Address to the Ephesian Elders"). Paul, on his final journey to Jerusalem, senses that he will not see these beloved leaders again, prompting a reflective and prophetic discourse. He reviews his diligent three-year ministry among them in Ephesus, which included teaching publicly and house to house ([Acts 20:20](/acts/20-20 "Paul's Teaching Ministry in Ephesus")), and then pivots to warning them about future challenges, particularly the emergence of "savage wolves" and false teachers from within their own ranks ([Acts 20:29-30](/acts/20-29-30 "Paul's Warning About False Teachers")). His declaration in verse 26 serves as a solemn capstone to his defense of his own faithfulness, setting an example for the elders' future stewardship.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The concept of being "pure from the blood" carries significant weight, drawing heavily from Old Testament prophetic traditions, particularly the role of the "watchman." In ancient Israel, a watchman was stationed on city walls to warn of approaching danger. If he failed to sound the alarm, the blood of those who perished would be "required at his hand" ([Ezekiel 33:6](/ezekiel/33-6 "The Watchman's Responsibility")). Conversely, if he warned faithfully, he would be "pure" from their blood, even if they disregarded the warning. Paul, a devout Jew steeped in these traditions, applies this powerful idiom to his spiritual responsibility as an apostle. Furthermore, taking someone "to record" or "to witness" was a common legal and social practice in the Greco-Roman world, lending a formal and binding nature to Paul's declaration, akin to a public oath or testimony.
* **Key Themes:** Paul's statement in [Acts 20:26](/acts/20-26 "Paul's Declaration of Purity") contributes to several major theological and narrative themes within the book of Acts and beyond. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Ministerial Accountability**, highlighting the immense spiritual responsibility entrusted to those who proclaim God's Word. Paul's blamelessness stems from his commitment to declaring "all the counsel of God" ([Acts 20:27](/acts/20-27 "Paul Declares the Whole Counsel of God")), emphasizing **Faithful Proclamation of Truth** as a core duty. This includes both the promises of salvation and the warnings of judgment. Secondly, the passage emphasizes the **Cost of Discipleship and Ministry**, as Paul acknowledges the "bonds and afflictions" that await him ([Acts 20:23](/acts/20-23 "Paul's Anticipation of Suffering")) yet remains resolute in completing his race. Finally, it reinforces the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Human Responsibility**, as Paul's faithfulness ensures that any rejection of the gospel is due to the hearer's choice, not the messenger's failure.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **take to record (Greek, _martýromai'_):** This word, meaning "to be adduced as a witness" or "to obtest," signifies a solemn appeal or affirmation. Paul is not merely stating a fact; he is calling the Ephesian elders to bear witness to his integrity and diligence, making his declaration a formal, public testimony. It implies a legal or covenantal weight, underscoring the gravity of his ministerial stewardship.
* **pure (Greek, _katharós'_):** This adjective means "clean," "innocent," or "free from defilement." In this context, it signifies moral and spiritual innocence concerning the spiritual state of others. Paul asserts that he is guiltless regarding anyone's spiritual ruin or eternal condemnation because he has diligently fulfilled his duty to warn and instruct. His hands are clean of any culpability for their spiritual demise.
* **blood (Greek, _haîma'_):** While literally referring to the vital fluid, "blood" here is used idiomatically and metaphorically. It represents guilt, responsibility for death, or spiritual ruin. The phrase "pure from the blood of all men" means Paul is free from the guilt of anyone's spiritual perishing. He has not withheld the life-giving message of the gospel, nor has he failed to warn of the consequences of rejecting it.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Wherefore I take you to record this day":** Paul initiates his declaration with a strong connective, "Wherefore" (G1352, _dió_), indicating a logical consequence of his preceding ministry and impending departure. By stating "I take you to record this day," he formally summons the Ephesian elders as witnesses to his public affirmation. This highlights the solemnity and gravity of his statement, making it a public testimony before God and these spiritual leaders, binding them to acknowledge his integrity and perhaps to follow his example.
* **"that I am pure":** This clause is Paul's central assertion of blamelessness. The Greek word _katharós_ (G2513) emphasizes his moral and spiritual cleanness. He declares himself innocent, not in a general sense of sinlessness, but specifically regarding his ministerial duties. He has discharged his responsibilities faithfully, ensuring that no one's spiritual downfall can be attributed to his negligence, compromise, or failure to deliver God's message.
* **"from the blood of all men":** This powerful idiom, deeply rooted in Old Testament watchman imagery, clarifies the nature of Paul's purity. "Blood" (G129, _haîma_) here represents the guilt or responsibility for the spiritual ruin or eternal condemnation of individuals. By declaring himself "pure from the blood of all men" (G3956, _pâs_, meaning "all" or "every"), Paul asserts that he has fully and faithfully delivered the gospel message—both its saving truth and its warnings—to everyone he encountered, without partiality or omission. Therefore, if any person perishes, it is due to their own rejection of the truth, not his failure to proclaim it.

#### Literary Devices
Acts 20:26 employs several potent literary devices that amplify its meaning and impact. The most prominent is **Idiom**, specifically "pure from the blood of all men." This phrase is not to be taken literally, but as a well-understood expression, particularly within Jewish thought, signifying freedom from guilt or responsibility for someone's death or spiritual ruin. Closely related is **Metaphor**, where "blood" stands for the culpability associated with spiritual demise. Paul uses this metaphor to assert his blamelessness in the face of others' potential spiritual destruction. Furthermore, there is a strong **Allusion** to the Old Testament "watchman" motif, particularly found in [Ezekiel 3:17-21](/ezekiel/3-17-21 "The Watchman's Responsibility in Ezekiel 3") and [Ezekiel 33:1-9](/ezekiel/33-1-9 "God's Charge to the Watchman"). Paul implicitly casts himself as a faithful watchman who has sounded the alarm, thereby clearing himself of responsibility for those who choose not to heed the warning. This allusive language imbues his statement with prophetic authority and deep theological resonance, highlighting the gravity of his pastoral stewardship.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Paul's declaration in Acts 20:26 stands as a profound theological statement on ministerial fidelity and accountability. It underscores the immense weight of responsibility that rests upon those entrusted with proclaiming God's truth. Paul's "purity from blood" is not a claim to sinless perfection, but rather a solemn affirmation that he has faithfully discharged his commission to declare "all the counsel of God" ([Acts 20:27](/acts/20-27 "Paul Declares the Whole Counsel of God")), without fear, favor, or omission. This principle extends beyond formal ministry, touching on the universal Christian call to bear witness to the gospel. Every believer, in their sphere of influence, has a responsibility to share the truth of Christ, ensuring that those around them have the opportunity to hear and respond. Paul's example challenges us to consider if we are truly living as faithful stewards of the divine message, ensuring that if others stumble, it is not due to our silence or compromise.

* [Ezekiel 3:18-19](/ezekiel/3-18-19 "The Watchman's Accountability")
* [1 Corinthians 9:16](/1_corinthians/9-16 "Paul's Necessity to Preach the Gospel")
* [2 Timothy 4:1-2](/2_timothy/4-1-2 "Paul's Charge to Timothy to Preach the Word")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 20:26 serves as a powerful mirror for all believers, particularly those in positions of spiritual leadership, teaching, or evangelism. Paul's resolute declaration challenges us to examine the faithfulness of our own witness. Are we, like Paul, diligently proclaiming the "whole counsel of God" without fear or compromise? This means not only sharing the comforting truths of God's love and grace but also the challenging truths of sin, repentance, and judgment. For pastors and teachers, it is a call to preach the full scope of Scripture, even the unpopular or difficult passages, ensuring that our congregations are fully equipped for life and godliness. For every believer, it is an invitation to consider our personal evangelism and discipleship. Are we actively and clearly sharing the hope of the gospel with those in our spheres of influence, driven by love and a profound sense of spiritual responsibility? Paul's desire to be "pure from the blood of all men" should ignite within us a similar passion to see all people come to a saving knowledge of Christ, knowing that our faithfulness in sharing the message frees us from culpability for their ultimate choice.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life or ministry might I be tempted to withhold or compromise "the whole counsel of God" due to fear, discomfort, or a desire for approval?**
* **How can I more intentionally and consistently share the gospel message with those in my immediate sphere of influence, ensuring they have a clear opportunity to hear and respond?**
* **What practical steps can I take to deepen my understanding of God's Word so that I am better equipped to declare it faithfully, like Paul?**

### FAQ
**What does Paul mean by "pure from the blood of all men"?**

Answer: When Paul declares himself "pure from the blood of all men," he is using a powerful idiom rooted in Old Testament prophetic tradition, particularly the concept of a "watchman" found in books like [Ezekiel 33](/ezekiel/33 "The Watchman's Responsibility"). It means that he has diligently and faithfully discharged his duty to proclaim the full truth of God's message—the gospel of salvation and the warnings of judgment—to everyone he encountered. By doing so, he has absolved himself of any responsibility or guilt for the spiritual ruin or eternal condemnation of those who heard his message but chose to reject it. Their "blood," or spiritual demise, would not be "on his hands" because he had fulfilled his obligation to warn and instruct.

**How does this verse apply to ordinary believers, not just pastors or missionaries?**

Answer: While Paul's statement is made in the context of his apostolic ministry, the underlying principle extends to all believers. Every Christian is called to be a witness for Christ ([Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "You Shall Be My Witnesses")). This means we have a responsibility to share the hope that is within us ([1 Peter 3:15](/1_peter/3-15 "Always Be Prepared to Give an Answer")) with those around us, whether through direct evangelism, living a life that reflects Christ, or discipling others. While not all are called to be apostles or pastors, we are all called to be faithful stewards of the gospel. Paul's desire to be "pure from the blood of all men" encourages us to consider if we are actively and clearly presenting the truth of Christ to those in our spheres of influence, so that if they perish, it is not due to our silence or negligence in sharing the good news. It is a call to proactive and loving engagement with the spiritual needs of others.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Paul's declaration in [Acts 20:26](/acts/20-26 "Paul's Declaration of Purity") finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. While Paul, as a faithful servant, could declare himself "pure from the blood of all men" by virtue of his diligent proclamation, Christ is uniquely and eternally pure. He is the perfect Watchman who not only faithfully declared the whole counsel of God but also perfectly fulfilled it through His life, death, and resurrection. Unlike human watchmen who merely warn, Christ, as the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), bore the "blood" of humanity's sin upon Himself. His own precious blood, shed on the cross, is the ultimate cleansing agent, making us pure from the condemnation of sin ([Hebrews 9:12-14](/hebrews/9-12-14 "Christ's Blood Cleanses Us")). Through His atoning sacrifice, Jesus ensures that those who believe in Him are not only freed from the "blood" of their own guilt but are also eternally pure in God's sight, having been [redeemed not with perishable things but with the precious blood of Christ](/1_peter/1-18-19 "1 Peter 1:18-19 - Redemption Through Christ's Blood"). Paul's earnest desire to be blameless points to the One who was truly blameless, whose perfect obedience and sacrificial death fully satisfied divine justice, making a way for all who believe to be pure from the blood of eternal condemnation.

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 18:6

And when they opposed themselves, and blasphemed, he shook [his] raiment, and said unto them, Your blood [be] upon your own heads; I [am] clean: from henceforth I will go unto the Gentiles.

Ezekiel 33:2

Son of man, speak to the children of thy people, and say unto them, When I bring the sword upon a land, if the people of the land take a man of their coasts, and set him for their watchman:

Ezekiel 33:9

Nevertheless, if thou warn the wicked of his way to turn from it; if he do not turn from his way, he shall die in his iniquity; but thou hast delivered thy soul.

Ezekiel 3:18

When I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; and thou givest him not warning, nor speakest to warn the wicked from his wicked way, to save his life; the same wicked [man] shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand.

Ezekiel 3:21

Nevertheless if thou warn the righteous [man], that the righteous sin not, and he doth not sin, he shall surely live, because he is warned; also thou hast delivered thy soul.

John 12:17

The people therefore that was with him when he called Lazarus out of his grave, and raised him from the dead, bare record.

Romans 10:2

For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge.