Acts 20 1

Acts 20:1 kjv

And after the uproar was ceased, Paul called unto him the disciples, and embraced them, and departed for to go into Macedonia.

Acts 20:1 nkjv

After the uproar had ceased, Paul called the disciples to himself, embraced them, and departed to go to Macedonia.

Acts 20:1 niv

When the uproar had ended, Paul sent for the disciples and, after encouraging them, said goodbye and set out for Macedonia.

Acts 20:1 esv

After the uproar ceased, Paul sent for the disciples, and after encouraging them, he said farewell and departed for Macedonia.

Acts 20:1 nlt

When the uproar was over, Paul sent for the believers and encouraged them. Then he said good-bye and left for Macedonia.

Acts 20 verses

Acts 20 1 Meaning

Acts 20:1 marks a pivotal transition in Paul’s ministry journey. After the severe riot instigated by Demetrius in Ephesus, Paul purposefully summoned the local believers, shared words of encouragement with them, and then formally departed for Macedonia. This verse highlights Paul's diligent pastoral care even in the face of recent hostility and his unwavering commitment to his apostolic mission as he moved on to the next planned phase of his evangelistic travels.

Acts 20 1 Context

Acts chapter 20 begins immediately after the tumultuous two-year ministry of Paul in Ephesus, which culminated in a violent riot (Acts 19:23-41). This riot, orchestrated by Demetrius and the silversmiths who profited from the worship of Artemis, demonstrated strong opposition to the Gospel's impact on the pagan economy and culture of Ephesus. Despite the intense persecution and threat to his life, Paul, according to his prior intention (Acts 19:21), proceeded with his planned journey to Macedonia. This verse serves as a crucial transition point, marking Paul's departure from a significant ministry hub and the start of the next phase of his third missionary journey, where he aimed to encourage and strengthen churches he had previously founded in Macedonia and Achaia (Greece).

Acts 20 1 Word analysis

• And (Gr. de, δέ): A simple connective particle, marking a sequence of events. Here, it signifies the immediate continuation after the previous events.
• after (Gr. meta tauta, μετὰ ταῦτα): "after these things." A temporal marker indicating a sequence. It establishes that Paul's actions are a direct response to, or a follow-up of, the riot. It shows a measured pause, not a hasty flight.
• the (Gr. ho, ὁ): The definite article.
• uproar (Gr. thorubos, θόρυβος): Meaning "tumult," "disturbance," "clamor," "riot." Refers specifically to the civil unrest and chaotic public disturbance described in Acts 19, demonstrating the intensity of opposition Paul faced. The word choice emphasizes the severity of the challenge.
• ceased (Gr. pausantos, παύσαντος): From pauō (παύω), meaning "to stop," "to cease," "to cause to cease." Implies that the disturbance quieted down, either naturally or through intervention (likely the town clerk's calming influence from Acts 19:35-41). This signals the end of a hostile episode, allowing for departure.
• Paul (Gr. Paulos, Παῦλος): The apostle Paul, central figure. His leadership and focus are highlighted even after such a stressful event.
• sent for (Gr. proskalesamenos, προσκαλεσάμενος): From proskaleomai (προσκαλέομαι), meaning "to call to oneself," "to summon." This is a deliberate, authoritative, and caring act. It shows Paul initiating a gathering, rather than merely leaving.
• the (Gr. tous, τούς): The definite article.
• disciples (Gr. mathētas, μαθητάς): Meaning "learners," "pupils," "followers." Refers to the Christian converts in Ephesus. This highlights Paul's relationship with them as a spiritual father and teacher, not just an evangelist. They were his spiritual children in Ephesus.
• and (Gr. kai, καί): Simple conjunction.
• encouraged them (Gr. parakalesas, παρακαλέσας): From parakaleō (παρακαλέω), meaning "to call alongside," "to exhort," "to comfort," "to encourage," "to appeal." This is a crucial act of pastoral care. In the aftermath of the riot, the disciples would have been shaken; Paul's encouragement would have strengthened their faith and resolve, preparing them for his absence. It underscores his role as a spiritual nurturer.
• and (Gr. kai, καί): Simple conjunction.
• took leave of them (Gr. aposurtheis, ἀποσυρθείς): From aposuromai (ἀποσύρομαι), meaning "to draw oneself away," "to withdraw," "to depart." This implies a final, formal farewell, often with a sense of regret or difficulty in parting. It suggests an emotional connection, not merely abandoning a location.
• departed (Gr. exelthein, ἐξελθεῖν): From exerchomai (ἐξέρχομαι), meaning "to go out," "to leave." Indicates the actual physical exit from the city.
• to (Gr. eis, εἰς): A preposition indicating motion towards or into.
• go (Gr. poreuesthai, πορεύεσθαι): From poreuomai (πορεύομαι), meaning "to journey," "to travel." Indicates purposeful movement.
• into Macedonia (Gr. Makedonian, Μακεδονίαν): The Roman province north of Greece. This was Paul's next strategic missionary destination, consistent with his plans (Acts 19:21). This transition demonstrates the intentional, planned nature of his ministry.

Words-group Analysis:

• "After the uproar ceased": This phrase denotes a specific chronological juncture, highlighting Paul's patient waiting for calm rather than a panicked escape. It underscores his orderly departure from a volatile situation.
• "Paul sent for the disciples and encouraged them": This demonstrates Paul's primary concern for the spiritual well-being of the local believers even amidst personal danger. It portrays him as a diligent shepherd tending to his flock before moving on, emphasizing the importance of discipling and fortifying the church. This "encouragement" (parakaleo) likely involved exhortation to remain steadfast, comforting them regarding the recent troubles, and instruction for their future spiritual growth without his immediate presence.
• "took leave of them and departed": This signifies a deliberate, formal, and often emotionally charged farewell rather than a forced or unannounced flight. It suggests a bond of affection and the intentional severance of immediate fellowship before commencing the next phase of his journey.

Acts 20 1 Bonus section

Paul's systematic approach to ministry involved planting churches, discipling believers, and then entrusting them to mature while he moved on to new areas or revisited existing churches. Acts 20:1 perfectly illustrates this pattern, as he moves from a major center (Ephesus) where a strong church foundation had been laid, to continue his circuit of strengthening established communities in Macedonia. The quality of his leadership is evident in his intentional seeking out of the disciples, indicating they were a priority before his own journey. His encouragement would have included reiterating foundational truths, preparing them for ongoing spiritual growth and trials, and perhaps entrusting local leaders with the oversight of the Ephesian church in his absence. This departure paves the way for his poignant farewell to the Ephesian elders in Acts 20:17-38, where his pastoral heart is further laid bare.

Acts 20 1 Commentary

Acts 20:1 concisely encapsulates a critical turning point in Paul’s third missionary journey. Following a major confrontation that challenged the burgeoning Ephesian church and Paul's safety, his immediate action was not to flee, but to pastorally care for the believers. The phrase "sent for the disciples and encouraged them" underscores Paul's deep commitment to the spiritual well-being of those he led, highlighting a shepherd's heart even when facing intense pressure. This act of "encouragement" (parakaleo) would have been vital, reinforcing their faith after experiencing the raw opposition to the gospel. His subsequent "taking leave" and "departing to go into Macedonia" was not an impulsive reaction but a pre-planned step in his strategic missionary endeavors, demonstrating his resolve to advance the Kingdom despite adversity. It serves as a profound example of resilient leadership and devoted discipleship in the face of external opposition.