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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Acts 20:36–38. His two-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
After the parting sermon that Paul preached to the elders of Ephesus, which was very affecting, we have here the parting prayer and tears, which were yet more affecting; we can scarcely read the account here given of them, and meditate upon them with dry eyes.
I.They parted with prayer (Act 20:36):
And, when he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all. And, no doubt, it was a prayer every way suited to the present mournful occasion. He committed them to God in this prayer, prayed that he would not leave them, but continue his presence with them.
1.It was a joint prayer. He not only prayed for them, but prayed with them, prayed with them all; that they might put up the same petitions for themselves and one another that he put up to God for them all, and that they might learn what to ask of God for themselves when he was gone. Public prayers are so far from being intended to supersede our own secret prayers, and make them needless, that they are designed to quicken and encourage them, and to direct us in them. When we are alone we should pray over the prayers that our ministers have put up with us.
2.It was a humble reverent prayer. This was expressed by the posture they used: He kneeled down, and prayed with them, which is the most proper gesture in prayer, and significant both of adoration and of petition, especially petition for the forgiveness of sin. Paul used it much: I bow my knees, Eph 3:14.
3.It was a prayer after sermon; and, we may suppose, he prayed over what he had preached. He had committed the care of the church at Ephesus to those elders, and now he prays that God would enable them faithfully to discharge this great trust reposed in them, and would give them those measures of wisdom and grace which it required; he prayed for the flock, and all that belonged to it, that the great Shepherd of the sheep would take care of them all, and keep them from being a prey to the grievous wolves. Thus he taught these ministers to pray for those they preached to, that they might not labour in vain.
4.It was a parting prayer, which might be likely to leave lasting impressions, as the farewell sermon did. It is good for friends, when they part, to part with prayer, that by praying together just at parting they may be enabled to pray the more feelingly one for another when they are separated, which is one part of our Christian duty, and an improvement of the communion of saints. The Lord watch between us, and watch over us both, when we are absent one from the other, is a good parting prayer (Gen 31:49), as also that our next meeting may be either nearer heaven or in heaven. Paul here followed the example of Christ, who, when he took leave of his disciples, after he had preached to them, prayed with them all, Joh 17:1.
II.They parted with tears, abundance of tears, and most affectionate embraces, Act 20:37, Act 20:38.
1.They all wept sorely. We have reason to think the Paul himself began; though he was determined to go, and saw his call clear to other work, yet he was sorry in his heart to leave them, and many a tear it cost him. He that was so often in tears while he was with them (Act 20:19, Act 20:31), no doubt shed many at parting, so watering what he had sown among them. But the notice is taken of their tears: They all wept sorely; there was not a dry eye among them, and it is probable the affectionate expressions Paul used in prayer set them a-weeping. These were tears of love and mutual endearment, like those of Jonathan and David, when they were forced to part, and wept one with another, until (as if they wept for strife) David exceeded, Sa1 20:41.
2.They fell upon Paul's neck, and kissed him, all, one after another, each bewailing his own loss: "How can I part with this invaluable man, this blessed Paul," says one, "in whom my life is a manner bound up?" - "Farewell, my dear friend," says another, "a thousand thanks to thee, and ten thousand to God for thee, and for all the pains thou hast taken with me for my good." "And must we part?" says another: "must I lose my spiritual father, nurse, and guide?" - "What will become of us now?" says another, "when we shall no more have him to apply to, and receive direction from? What shall I do, if the Lord take away my master from my head? My father, my father, the chariots of Israel, and the horsemen thereof." Note, Those that are most loving are commonly best beloved. Paul, who was a most affectionate friend himself, had friends that were very affectionate to him. These tears at parting with Paul were a grateful return for all the tears he had shed in preaching to them and praying with them. He that watereth shall be watered also himself.
3.That which cut them to the heart thus, and made this place such a Bochim, such a place of weepers, was, that word which Paul spoke, that he was certain they should see his face no more. If he had given them directions to follow him, as he did to those that were his usual companions, or any intimation that he would come hereafter and make them a visit, they could have borne this parting pretty well; but when they are told that they shall see his face no more in this world, that it is a final farewell they are now giving and taking, this makes it a great mourning; it makes farewell just like a funeral, and puts them into this passion of weeping. There were other things for which they sorrowed - that they should lose the benefit of his public performances, and see him no longer presiding in their assemblies, should have none of his personal counsels and comforts; and, we hope, they sorrowed for their own sin, in not profiting more by his labours while they had him among them, and which had provoked God to order his remove. But that which gave the most sensible accent to their grief was that they should see his face no more. When our friends are separated from us by death, this is the consideration with which we raise up our mourning, that we shall see their faces no more; but we complain of this as those that have no hope, for if our friends died in Christ, and we live to him, they are gone to see God's face, to behold his glory, with the reflection of which their faces shine, and we hope to be with them shortly. Though we shall see their faces no more in this world, we hope to see them again in a better world, and to be there together for ever and with the Lord.
III.They accompanied him unto the ship, partly to show their respect for him (they would bring him on his way as far as they could), and partly that they might have a little more of his company and conversation; if it must be the last interview, they will have as much of him as they can, and see the last of him. And we have reason to think that when they came to the water-side, and he was about to go on board, their tears and embraces were repeated; for loth to part bids oft farewell. But this was a comfort to both sides, and soon turned this tide of passion, that the presence of Christ both went with him and staid with them.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
One surviving comment on this verse from the historical church.
"And they all wept sore, and fell on Paul's neck and kissed him, sorrowing most of all for the words which he spake, that they should see his face no more." He had said, that "grievous wolves should enter in;" had said, "I am pure from the blood of all men:" and yet the thing that grieved them most of all was this, "that they should see him no more:" since indeed it was this that made the war grievous. "And they fell on his neck," it says, "and wept." He shows their affection also by saying, "Upon his neck," as taking a last and yet a last embrace, such was the love they conceived from his discourse, such the spell of love that bound them. For if we groan when simply parting from each other, although we know that we shall receive one another back again, what a tearing away of themselves it must have been to them!
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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 to Acts 20:35, is a testament to Paul's selfless ministry, his unwavering commitment to proclaiming "the whole counsel of God" (Acts 20:27), 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). The elders' sorrow in verse 38 is a direct response to Paul's somber pronouncement in Acts 20:25 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). 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), 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
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.
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.
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), 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.
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
FAQ
Why were the Ephesian elders so sorrowful at Paul's departure?
The elders' profound sorrow stemmed primarily from Paul's explicit declaration that they would "see his face no more" (Acts 20:25). 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?
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), 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). 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). 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; Revelation 22:4). 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) whose presence is never truly absent from His flock.