Acts 20:38

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

Sorrowing {G3600} most of all {G3122} for {G1909} the words {G3056} which {G3739} he spake {G2046}, that {G3754} they should {G3195} see {G2334} his {G846} face {G4383} no more {G3765}. And {G1161} they accompanied {G4311} him {G846} unto {G1519} the ship {G4143}.

Complete Jewish Bible

What saddened them the most was his remark that they would never see him again. Then they accompanied him to the ship.

Berean Standard Bible

They were especially grieved by his statement that they would never see his face again. Then they accompanied him to the ship.

American Standard Version

sorrowing most of all for the word which he had spoken, that they should behold his face no more. And they brought him on his way unto the ship.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 20:38 captures a profoundly poignant moment at the conclusion of Paul's farewell address to the Ephesian elders, revealing the deep emotional bond between a spiritual leader and his flock. Their overwhelming sorrow, expressed "most of all" for Paul's declaration that they would never again see his face, underscores the immense love and spiritual connection forged through years of shared ministry. This verse beautifully illustrates the pain of separation from cherished spiritual mentors while also testifying to the lasting impact of Paul's devoted service, culminating in their heartfelt accompaniment of him to the ship.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Acts 20:38 serves as the emotional climax and conclusion of Paul's final, deeply personal address to the Ephesian elders, whom he had summoned to meet him at Miletus. This discourse, spanning from [Acts 20:17](/acts/20-17 "Paul's Summons to the Ephesian Elders") to [Acts 20:35](/acts/20-35 "Paul's Farewell Exhortation"), is a testament to Paul's selfless ministry, his unwavering commitment to proclaiming "the whole counsel of God" ([Acts 20:27](/acts/20-27 "Paul's Declaration of Full Disclosure")), and his prophetic warnings about future challenges, including the rise of "savage wolves" from within their own ranks who would distort the truth ([Acts 20:29-30](/acts/20-29-30 "Paul's Warning Against False Teachers")). The elders' sorrow in verse 38 is a direct response to Paul's somber pronouncement in [Acts 20:25](/acts/20-25 "Paul's Prophecy of Not Seeing Them Again") that they would "see my face no more," a statement that now, in the final moments of their parting, becomes a painful reality, intensifying their grief.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ephesus was a prominent Roman city in Asia Minor, a major commercial and religious center, home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Paul had spent approximately three years ministering in Ephesus, establishing a robust church and raising up indigenous leaders, the "elders" (presbyters), who were responsible for shepherding the flock. The act of "accompanying him unto the ship" was a common cultural practice in the ancient world, signifying respect, affection, and a final act of solidarity for a departing dignitary or friend. The public display of grief, including weeping and embracing, was also culturally acceptable and expected in such emotional partings, reflecting the deep personal bonds formed within the early Christian communities, which often functioned as extended families. This farewell, therefore, was not merely a formal parting but a deeply personal and culturally significant moment of communal grief and affection.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Acts and Paul's ministry. Firstly, it highlights the **profound affection and spiritual bond** between a devoted spiritual leader and his flock, demonstrating that Christian ministry is fundamentally relational. Secondly, it underscores the **pain of separation and loss**, acknowledging that even within a faith context, goodbyes, especially perceived final ones, evoke deep human sorrow. This theme is echoed in Paul's own anticipation of "bonds and afflictions" ([Acts 20:23](/acts/20-23 "Paul's Expectation of Suffering")). Thirdly, the elders' intense grief serves as a testament to the **lasting impact of faithful, sacrificial ministry**. Paul's diligent labor, his example of working with his own hands to avoid being a burden ([Acts 20:34-35](/acts/20-34-35 "Paul's Example of Self-Sufficiency")), and his unwavering commitment to the gospel had clearly cultivated deep love and respect among these leaders, leaving an enduring legacy of spiritual formation and pastoral care.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Sorrowing (Greek, _odynáō'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to be in pain" or "to be distressed," this verb signifies a deep, agonizing sorrow, a profound anguish that goes beyond mere sadness. It suggests an internal torment or distress, indicating the intensity of the elders' emotional suffering at the prospect of Paul's departure and the finality of his words.
* **most of all (Greek, _málista'_):** This adverb is the neuter plural of a superlative, meaning "in the greatest degree" or "especially." Its placement here emphasizes that while other factors might have contributed to their sadness (e.g., the dangers Paul faced, the challenges ahead for the church), the primary and most intense source of their anguish was the specific declaration that they would no longer see Paul's face. It underscores the personal and relational core of their grief.
* **see (Greek, _theōréō'_):** This verb means "to be a spectator of," "to discern," or "to perceive." Unlike a simple glance, _theōréō_ implies a sustained, contemplative looking, a deep engagement with what is seen. In this context, it speaks to the intimate, personal presence of Paul that they cherished and would now miss, highlighting the relational aspect of their spiritual guidance and fellowship.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Sorrowing most of all for the words which he spake,"**: This clause immediately establishes the profound emotional state of the Ephesian elders. Their sorrow was not a fleeting sadness but a deep, agonizing grief, intensified by the specific content of Paul's recent address. The phrase "most of all" pinpoints the primary cause of their distress, highlighting the particular weight of Paul's prophetic declaration.
* **"that they should see his face no more."**: This is the direct object of their sorrow, the specific "words" that caused them such anguish. Paul's statement, made earlier in the discourse ([Acts 20:25](/acts/20-25 "Paul's Prophecy of Not Seeing Them Again")), now fully sinks in as a painful reality. The emphasis on "seeing his face" underscores the personal, relational, and intimate nature of their bond with Paul, signifying the loss of his physical presence, his direct guidance, and the comfort of his fellowship. The phrase "no more" conveys a sense of finality and irreparable loss.
* **"And they accompanied him unto the ship."**: Despite their overwhelming sorrow, this final action demonstrates their enduring love, respect, and solidarity with Paul. It signifies their commitment to him even in parting, a final act of escorting him as he embarked on a journey fraught with uncertainty and danger. This act of accompaniment, even in their grief, speaks volumes about the depth of their relationship and their continued support for his mission.

#### Literary Devices
Acts 20:38 is rich with **Pathos**, an appeal to emotion, as it vividly portrays the deep sorrow and anguish of the Ephesian elders. The description of their "sorrowing most of all" for Paul's words evokes a powerful sense of grief and loss, allowing the reader to empathize with their profound attachment to their spiritual father. This emotional intensity is heightened by the **Foreshadowing** embedded in Paul's earlier declaration that they would "see his face no more," a prophecy that now becomes the painful reality of their parting. The act of accompanying him to the ship, even in their tears, serves as a poignant **Symbol** of their unwavering devotion and the enduring legacy of Paul's ministry, a testament to the strong spiritual bonds he had forged. The scene functions as a **Climax** to Paul's farewell, bringing the emotional tension of his prophetic warnings and heartfelt exhortations to a deeply personal and tearful conclusion.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The profound sorrow of the Ephesian elders in Acts 20:38 offers significant theological insights into the nature of spiritual relationships and the human experience of loss within the Christian faith. It affirms that genuine, Christ-centered ministry fosters deep, familial bonds that transcend mere professional association. Their grief testifies to the transformative power of Paul's presence and teaching, demonstrating that true spiritual leadership cultivates not only obedience to doctrine but also profound love and attachment. The scene also reminds us that while our hope is in Christ, the pain of earthly separation is real and valid, even for those who share a common faith and eternal hope. It underscores the value God places on human connection and the sorrow inherent in the breaking of such bonds, even when done in the service of a higher calling.

* [Philippians 1:7](/philippians/1-7 "Paul's Affection for the Philippians")
* [2 Timothy 4:6-8](/2_timothy/4-6-8 "Paul's Farewell and Confidence")
* [John 16:6](/john/16-6 "Disciples' Sorrow at Jesus' Departure")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 20:38 provides a powerful and enduring lesson on the value of deep, authentic spiritual relationships within the body of Christ. It challenges us to cultivate bonds of love and mutual respect with our spiritual leaders and fellow believers, recognizing that these connections are not merely functional but are vital for our spiritual nourishment and growth. The elders' unreserved sorrow reminds us that it is right to grieve the loss of cherished relationships, even as we trust in God's sovereign plan. This passage encourages us to invest deeply in the lives of others, to serve selflessly, and to live in such a way that our lives bear fruit in the affections and spiritual maturity of those we minister to. Our goodbyes, though painful, can be opportunities to affirm the lasting impact of shared faith and love, trusting that true spiritual bonds transcend physical distance and temporal partings.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How deeply do I value and invest in my spiritual relationships within the church community?**
* **In what ways do I express appreciation and affection for those who have spiritually discipled or mentored me?**
* **How do I navigate the pain of separation or loss within my Christian walk, trusting in God's continued presence and provision?**
* **What kind of spiritual legacy am I building through my service and relationships, and how might it impact others when I am no longer physically present?**

### FAQ

**Why were the Ephesian elders so sorrowful at Paul's departure?**

Answer: The elders' profound sorrow stemmed primarily from Paul's explicit declaration that they would "see his face no more" ([Acts 20:25](/acts/20-25 "Paul's Prophecy of Not Seeing Them Again")). This was not just a casual parting; Paul had spent three years in Ephesus, deeply investing in their lives and the church. He was not merely a teacher but a spiritual father and mentor, and his departure meant the loss of his personal presence, direct guidance, and the comfort of his fellowship. Their grief was a testament to the deep, authentic, and loving relationship that had formed between them, highlighting the immense value they placed on his leadership and companionship.

**What does "see his face no more" imply about Paul's future?**

Answer: Paul's statement that they would "see his face no more" implies a permanent separation, a final earthly farewell. While it does not necessarily mean his immediate death, it strongly suggests that his future journey, particularly his impending trip to Jerusalem where he anticipated "bonds and afflictions" ([Acts 20:23](/acts/20-23 "Paul's Expectation of Suffering")), would lead him away from Asia Minor in a way that would prevent any future reunion with these specific elders. Historically, Paul did indeed go to Jerusalem, was arrested, and eventually sent to Rome, never returning to Ephesus. This prophetic declaration underscores the gravity of his mission and the sacrifices he was willing to make for the gospel.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The profound sorrow of the Ephesian elders at Paul's departure, especially his declaration that they would "see his face no more," finds a poignant echo and ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Just as the elders grieved the physical absence of their beloved shepherd, so too did the disciples experience immense sorrow when Jesus spoke of His impending departure ([John 16:6](/john/16-6 "Disciples' Sorrow at Jesus' Departure")). However, unlike Paul's final earthly farewell, Christ's physical departure through ascension was a necessary step for the greater spiritual presence of the Holy Spirit, the Comforter, who would indwell believers and guide them into all truth ([John 16:7](/john/16-7 "Jesus Promises the Holy Spirit")). Furthermore, while Paul's farewell was final in an earthly sense, Christ's departure carries the glorious promise of His return, when all believers will truly "see His face" and be reunited with Him forever ([1 Thessalonians 4:16-17](/1_thessalonians/4-16-17 "The Lord's Return and Resurrection of the Dead"); [Revelation 22:4](/revelation/22-4 "They will see His face")). Thus, the temporary sorrow of separation, exemplified by the Ephesian elders, points forward to the eternal joy of reunion in Christ, who is the ultimate Good Shepherd ([John 10:11](/john/10-11 "Jesus, the Good Shepherd")) whose presence is never truly absent from His flock.

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 15:3

And being brought on their way by the church, they passed through Phenice and Samaria, declaring the conversion of the Gentiles: and they caused great joy unto all the brethren.

Acts 20:25

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

1 Corinthians 16:11

Let no man therefore despise him: but conduct him forth in peace, that he may come unto me: for I look for him with the brethren.

Acts 21:16

There went with us also [certain] of the disciples of Caesarea, and brought with them one Mnason of Cyprus, an old disciple, with whom we should lodge.

Acts 21:5

And when we had accomplished those days, we departed and went our way; and they all brought us on our way, with wives and children, till [we were] out of the city: and we kneeled down on the shore, and prayed.