Acts 20:31

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

Therefore {G1352} watch {G1127}, and remember {G3421}, that {G3754} by the space of three years {G5148} I ceased {G3973} not {G3756} to warn {G3560} every {G1538} one {G1520} night {G3571} and {G2532} day {G2250} with {G3326} tears {G1144}.

Complete Jewish Bible

So stay alert! Remember that for three years, night and day, with tears in my eyes, I never stopped warning you!

Berean Standard Bible

Therefore be alert and remember that for three years I never stopped warning each of you night and day with tears.

American Standard Version

Wherefore watch ye, remembering that by the space of three years I ceased not to admonish every one night and day with tears.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In Acts 20:31, the Apostle Paul delivers a poignant and urgent exhortation to the Ephesian elders, reminding them of the unwavering intensity and profound sincerity of his three-year ministry among them. This verse encapsulates Paul's relentless dedication to teaching and warning, characterized by tireless effort and deep emotional investment, serving as a powerful model for pastoral vigilance and a crucial call for their continued spiritual alertness in the face of future challenges.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is a pivotal moment within Paul's farewell address to the Ephesian elders at Miletus, a deeply moving and valedictory speech (Acts 20:17-38). Having summoned them, Paul recounts his blameless conduct and tireless ministry among them, emphasizing his commitment to proclaiming "the whole counsel of God" ([Acts 20:27](/acts/20-27 "Acts 20:27 - Paul's Proclamation of God's Counsel")). The "Therefore" (G1352, _dió_) in verse 31 directly connects to his preceding warnings about internal and external threats to the church—specifically, the emergence of "grievous wolves" from outside and "perverse things" from within their own ranks ([Acts 20:29-30](/acts/20-29-30 "Acts 20:29-30 - Paul's Warning of Wolves and Perverse Teachings")). His personal example of vigilance and persistent warning serves as the foundation for his command to them to "watch" and "remember."
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul's ministry in Ephesus, as detailed in [Acts 19](/acts/19 "Acts 19 - Paul's Ministry in Ephesus"), was one of his longest and most impactful, lasting approximately three years (Acts 20:31). Ephesus was a major Roman provincial capital, a center of commerce, and a hub of pagan worship, particularly the cult of Artemis (Diana). The church in Ephesus faced significant opposition from both Jewish and Gentile quarters, as well as the pervasive influence of idolatry and magical practices. Paul's extended stay allowed for deep roots to be established, but also exposed the nascent Christian community to constant spiritual and ideological pressures. His "night and day" ministry reflects the demanding nature of evangelism and discipleship in such a challenging environment, often requiring personal sacrifice and relentless effort beyond typical daily schedules.
* **Key Themes:** Acts 20:31 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Acts and Paul's epistles. It highlights **Pastoral Responsibility and Vigilance**, underscoring the demanding nature of shepherding God's flock, which requires constant alertness against doctrinal error and moral compromise. The theme of **Persevering Ministry** is evident in Paul's "three years... night and day" commitment, showcasing that effective spiritual leadership is characterized by tireless effort and consistent engagement, not intermittent activity. Furthermore, the phrase "with tears" introduces the theme of **Compassionate Admonition**, demonstrating that true biblical warning and correction are born out of profound love and concern for the spiritual well-being of others, rather than anger or judgment. Paul's life and ministry, as presented here and in passages like [1 Corinthians 11:1](/1_corinthians/11-1 "1 Corinthians 11:1 - Imitate Paul as he imitates Christ"), serve as a **Model for Christian Leadership**, emphasizing selflessness, dedication, and a willingness to suffer for the sake of the gospel and the church.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **watch (Greek, _grēgoreúō_):** From G1127, meaning "to keep awake, i.e. watch (literally or figuratively):--be vigilant, wake, (be) watch(-ful)." In this context, it is a command for spiritual alertness and vigilance. Paul is not merely telling them to stay awake physically, but to be constantly on guard against spiritual dangers, particularly the false teachings and divisive influences he has just warned them about in [Acts 20:29-30](/acts/20-29-30 "Acts 20:29-30 - Paul's Warning of Wolves and Perverse Teachings"). It implies a proactive and continuous state of readiness.
* **warn (Greek, _nouthetéō_):** From G3560, meaning "to put in mind, i.e. (by implication) to caution or reprove gently:--admonish, warn." This word describes Paul's method of instruction, which included not only positive teaching but also necessary admonition. It implies a loving yet firm correction or instruction, often involving a warning against error or danger, aimed at shaping the mind and will towards truth and righteousness. It's a holistic form of discipleship that seeks to protect and guide.
* **tears (Greek, _dákry_):** From G1144, meaning "a tear:--tear." The inclusion of "with tears" (G3326, _metá_ + G1144, _dákry_) powerfully conveys Paul's profound emotional investment and sincere grief over the potential spiritual pitfalls facing the Ephesian believers. His warnings were not delivered as a detached duty but as a heartfelt burden, demonstrating the depth of his pastoral love and concern for their spiritual perseverance and salvation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Therefore watch, and remember,"**: The opening "Therefore" (G1352, _dió_) establishes a direct logical connection to Paul's preceding warnings about the coming spiritual dangers. The command to "watch" (G1127, _grēgoreúō_) is an imperative for constant spiritual vigilance, urging the elders to be acutely aware of threats to the flock. Coupled with "and remember" (G3421, _mnēmoneúō_), Paul calls them to recall his consistent teaching and warnings, implying that their past instruction should serve as a foundation for their future discernment and action.
* **"that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one"**: This clause highlights the duration and intensity of Paul's ministry in Ephesus. "By the space of three years" (G5148, _trietía_) indicates a significant period, while "I ceased not" (G3973, _paúō_ with G3756, _ou_) emphasizes his relentless, unbroken commitment. The phrase "to warn every one" (G3560, _nouthetéō_ with G1538, _hékastos_ and G1520, _heîs_) underscores the comprehensive nature of his pastoral care, indicating that his admonition was personal, individual, and extended to each member of the community.
* **"night and day with tears."**: This final phrase powerfully conveys the tireless and deeply emotional nature of Paul's ministry. "Night and day" (G3571, _nýx_ and G2250, _hēméra_) is a common expression for continuous, unceasing effort, signifying his absolute dedication. The addition of "with tears" (G3326, _metá_ G1144, _dákry_) reveals the profound compassion, sorrow, and earnestness that accompanied his warnings, demonstrating that his admonition stemmed from a heart burdened with love and concern for their spiritual well-being.

#### Literary Devices
Paul's farewell address, and particularly this verse, is rich with **Pathos**, as evidenced by the phrase "with tears." This emotional appeal underscores the deep love and genuine concern Paul held for the Ephesian elders and the church, making his warnings all the more impactful and memorable. The expression "night and day" functions as **Hyperbole**, a deliberate exaggeration not meant to be taken literally as 24/7 non-stop activity, but rather to emphasize the relentless, continuous, and tireless nature of his ministry. It conveys the immense effort and dedication he poured into their spiritual formation. Furthermore, Paul employs **Exemplum**, presenting his own ministry as a living example for the elders to emulate. His past vigilance and tearful warnings serve as a direct model for the vigilance and compassionate admonition they are now commanded to exercise in their own leadership.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 20:31 profoundly underscores the demanding yet compassionate nature of true spiritual leadership and the necessity of constant vigilance for all believers. Paul's tireless commitment to "warn every one night and day with tears" reveals that biblical admonition is not a harsh or detached activity, but a deeply personal and loving act, born out of a shepherd's heart burdened for the flock's protection and perseverance. This verse highlights the ongoing spiritual warfare that necessitates alertness against false teachings and internal divisions, emphasizing that sound doctrine and faithful discipleship require persistent effort and emotional investment. It calls the church to remember the foundational truths taught by faithful leaders and to remain watchful, ensuring the purity of the gospel and the spiritual health of the community.

* [Mark 13:37](/mark/13-37 "Mark 13:37 - Be on the alert")
* [1 Peter 5:2](/1_peter/5-2 "1 Peter 5:2 - Shepherd the flock of God")
* [Colossians 1:28](/colossians/1-28 "Colossians 1:28 - Admonishing everyone")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Paul's poignant words in Acts 20:31 serve as a timeless challenge and encouragement for believers today, both those in leadership and every member of the body of Christ. His command to "watch" resonates deeply in an era characterized by a proliferation of information and diverse spiritual claims; it calls us to cultivate spiritual discernment, to be vigilant against teachings that subtly undermine biblical truth, and to remain steadfast in sound doctrine. For those entrusted with spiritual oversight, Paul's example of tireless, compassionate, and comprehensive warning is a powerful blueprint. It reminds us that true pastoral care is not a part-time endeavor but a consuming passion, requiring a willingness to invest deeply, to speak difficult truths with love, and to bear the burdens of others with genuine empathy, even to the point of tears. This verse compels us to remember the foundational teachings we have received and to hold fast to them, recognizing that spiritual maturity and protection often require diligent effort and a heartfelt commitment to the well-being of others.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you need to be more "watchful" or vigilant, spiritually speaking?**
* **How can Paul's example of "warning with tears" inform your own interactions when you need to speak difficult truths to others?**
* **What foundational truths or warnings have you received that you need to "remember" and hold fast to in your walk with Christ?**

### FAQ

**Why did Paul warn "with tears"?**

Answer: Paul's warnings "with tears" (G1144, _dákry_) reveal the profound depth of his emotional investment and pastoral heart for the Ephesian believers. These were not tears of anger or frustration, but of genuine sorrow, compassion, and a deep burden for their spiritual well-being and perseverance in faith. He foresaw the dangers of false teachers and internal divisions ([Acts 20:29-30](/acts/20-29-30 "Acts 20:29-30 - Paul's Warning of Wolves and Perverse Teachings")) and was deeply grieved by the potential harm these threats could inflict on the flock he had so diligently shepherded. His tears underscore that true biblical admonition (G3560, _nouthetéō_) is rooted in love and concern, aiming for restoration and protection, not condemnation. This emotional vulnerability highlights the authenticity and sincerity of his ministry, making his warnings all the more impactful.

**What is the significance of "three years" in Paul's ministry at Ephesus?**

Answer: The "space of three years" (G5148, _trietía_) signifies a remarkably long and dedicated period of ministry for Paul in one location, as detailed in [Acts 19](/acts/19 "Acts 19 - Paul's Ministry in Ephesus"). This extended duration allowed him to establish a strong foundation for the church in Ephesus, providing comprehensive teaching and discipleship. It suggests a deep, sustained commitment that went beyond mere evangelism to encompass thorough spiritual formation and the raising of local leaders. This prolonged presence demonstrates Paul's conviction that deep spiritual roots and resilience against error are cultivated through consistent, long-term investment in a community, rather than fleeting visits. It also emphasizes the immense personal sacrifice Paul made, dedicating such a significant portion of his itinerant ministry to one city.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Paul's tireless vigilance and tearful admonition in Acts 20:31 find their ultimate fulfillment and perfect example in the person and ministry of Jesus Christ. Just as Paul ceased not to warn his flock, so too did Christ tirelessly teach, heal, and warn His disciples and the crowds, often "night and day" in His earthly ministry ([Luke 6:12](/luke/6-12 "Luke 6:12 - Jesus Prays on the Mountain")). Jesus frequently warned His followers about the dangers of hypocrisy ([Matthew 23](/matthew/23 "Matthew 23 - Woes to the Scribes and Pharisees")), false prophets ([Matthew 7:15](/matthew/7-15 "Matthew 7:15 - Beware of False Prophets")), and the need for spiritual watchfulness, particularly in anticipation of His return ([Mark 13:33-37](/mark/13-33-37 "Mark 13:33-37 - Be on the Alert")). Moreover, the "tears" of Paul echo the profound compassion of Christ, who wept over Jerusalem's unbelief ([Luke 19:41-44](/luke/19-41-44 "Luke 19:41-44 - Jesus Weeps Over Jerusalem")) and experienced deep anguish in Gethsemane ([Luke 22:44](/luke/22-44 "Luke 22:44 - Jesus' Agony in Gethsemane")), bearing the ultimate burden for humanity's sin. Paul's ministry, therefore, stands as a Christ-like model of self-sacrificial love and relentless dedication to the spiritual well-being of God's people, reflecting the very heart of the Good Shepherd who laid down His life for His sheep ([John 10:11](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - The Good Shepherd")).

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 19:8

¶ And he went into the synagogue, and spake boldly for the space of three months, disputing and persuading the things concerning the kingdom of God.

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.

Acts 20:19

Serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and temptations, which befell me by the lying in wait of the Jews:

Hebrews 13:17

Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that [is] unprofitable for you.

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:

Luke 21:36

Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.

2 Timothy 4:5

But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.