Acts 20: Expository Preaching and Study Guide for Church Leaders

Overview

Acts 20 records Paul’s continued missionary journey, his deep pastoral concern for the churches, and his final farewell to the Ephesian elders. The chapter begins with Paul encouraging believers in Macedonia and Greece and culminates in a moving speech to the elders of Ephesus at Miletus. A key event is the resurrection of Eutychus, followed by Paul’s heartfelt exhortation to the leaders who would shepherd the church in his absence.

This chapter underscores several key theological truths:

The sovereign guidance of the Holy Spirit in Paul’s ministry,
The centrality of teaching sound doctrine,
The urgency of pastoral care and vigilance, and
The selfless, sacrificial nature of true gospel ministry.

The chapter is marked by a strong affirmation of Scriptural authority and apostolic teaching, offering a powerful model for church leadership and ministry grounded in truth, humility, and endurance.

Historical and Literary Context

Historical Setting:
Acts 20 occurs during Paul’s third missionary journey (around A.D. 53–57). The early church is growing, but facing opposition both from the Jews and increasingly from pagan Gentile societies. Paul’s movements reflect urgency, as he aims to reach Jerusalem by Pentecost, aware of looming persecution.

The city of Miletus, where Paul meets the Ephesian elders, was about 30 miles south of Ephesus. Paul chose not to go to Ephesus directly, possibly to avoid delay or confrontation, but his message to the elders there is full of deep emotional and theological weight.

Literary Features:

Historical Narrative: Luke records with precision, providing geographical, temporal, and personal details that affirm the reliability of the events.
Farewell Discourse: Paul’s speech in verses 17–38 functions as a pastoral farewell, rich in theology and practical instruction, mirroring Old Testament farewell addresses (e.g., Moses in Deuteronomy).
Eyewitness Account: The shift to the first-person plural (“we”) in verse 5 shows Luke was a direct witness to the events.

This literal and historical reading of Acts 20 affirms the inerrancy and trustworthiness of Scripture as inspired by God and preserved for the Church’s edification (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

Key Themes and Doctrinal Points

1. Faithful Gospel Ministry Requires Sacrifice and Endurance (vv. 18–24)

Paul’s ministry was marked by humility, tears, trials, and perseverance. He did not shrink from declaring “the whole will of God” (v. 27). This teaches:

Ministry is not about popularity or ease, but faithfulness to God’s truth.
Christian leaders must be prepared to suffer for the sake of the gospel, just as Paul was willing to face imprisonment and even death (v. 24).

Doctrinal Insight: This reflects the cost of discipleship (Luke 9:23), and affirms the sovereignty of God in assigning each believer a race to run (Hebrews 12:1-2).

2. The Centrality of Sound Doctrine and Teaching (v. 20, 27, 32)

Paul emphasizes the need to teach both publicly and privately, without withholding any truth. He committed the elders to “God and the word of His grace” (v. 32).

The Word of God is sufficient to build up the church and sanctify the saints.
Leaders are called to teach the full counsel of God, not selective parts that are culturally comfortable.

Doctrinal Insight: This upholds biblical inerrancy and the sufficiency of Scripture (Psalm 19:7-11; 2 Timothy 3:16). The pastor’s primary task is expositional teaching grounded in the authority of God’s Word.

3. Vigilance Against False Teachers (vv. 29–30)

Paul warns that “savage wolves” will come, even from within the church. This reveals the ever-present danger of doctrinal deviation and spiritual deception.

Church leaders must guard the flock through watchfulness, teaching, and church discipline.
False teachers often arise subtly, drawing disciples after themselves rather than Christ.

Doctrinal Insight: This aligns with Jesus’ warning in Matthew 7:15 and Paul’s later exhortation in 1 Timothy 4:1-2. It reflects the spiritual warfare reality and the need for discernment in the church.

4. Leadership Marked by Humility and Generosity (vv. 33–35)

Paul refused material gain, worked with his own hands, and modeled generosity, quoting Jesus: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”

True shepherds are not driven by greed or gain, but by service and love.
Leaders must model Christ’s self-giving in every area of life.

Doctrinal Insight: This exemplifies the image of Christ in servant leadership (John 13:12-17; Philippians 2:5-8). God’s people are called to reflect His character in every area of stewardship.

5. The Ministry of the Holy Spirit (vv. 22–23, 28)

The Holy Spirit constrained Paul’s journey and revealed suffering ahead. Paul reminds the elders that the flock they shepherd was “bought with His own blood” and overseen by the Spirit.

The Spirit guides and empowers the church’s mission.
Pastoral ministry is Spirit-assigned and Christ-centered.

Doctrinal Insight: The Spirit’s role in Acts shows His sovereign presence and empowerment, aligning with John 16:13-14 and Romans 8. Church leaders are stewards under the Spirit’s authority.

Conclusion

Acts 20 is a call to courageous, faithful, Spirit-led ministry grounded in the Word of God. Paul’s example sets a biblical standard for all pastors and church leaders: teach sound doctrine, shepherd the flock with humility, guard the church from error, and finish the race with endurance.

The chapter affirms the absolute authority of Scripture, the essential nature of pastoral care, and the need for Christ-centered leadership in a world that opposes truth.

Verse-by-Verse Analysis

This section focuses on key passages in Acts 20, providing a literal explanation, doctrinal insight, cross-references, and practical application.

Acts 20:7 — “On the first day of the week we came together to break bread.”

Explanation: This is the earliest clear reference to the Lord’s Day worship on Sunday, distinguishing Christian practice from the Jewish Sabbath.
Cross-reference: See 1 Corinthians 16:2 – Paul instructs giving on the first day; Revelation 1:10 – John refers to “the Lord’s Day.”
Doctrinal Insight: Early Christians honored Christ’s resurrection by gathering on Sunday.
Application: Uphold the importance of weekly corporate worship centered on the Word and the Lord’s Supper.

Acts 20:9-10 — The Raising of Eutychus

Explanation: A young man falls asleep and dies during Paul’s extended preaching, but Paul embraces him and brings him back to life.
Cross-reference: Similar to 1 Kings 17:21-22 (Elijah raises a boy), 2 Kings 4:34-35 (Elisha), and Luke 7:14-15 (Jesus raises a widow’s son).
Doctrinal Insight: This miracle affirms Paul’s apostolic authority and God’s power to give life—physically and spiritually.
Application: God can bring revival and renewal, even when situations seem lifeless or hopeless.

Acts 20:17-21 — Paul’s Review of His Ministry

Explanation: Paul recounts his humble and faithful service, teaching both publicly and house to house, testifying to repentance and faith in Jesus.
Cross-reference: 1 Thessalonians 2:3-12 – Paul’s pastoral heart and conduct; Matthew 28:19-20 – the Great Commission.
Doctrinal Insight: Ministry must be grounded in humility, truth, and evangelistic purpose.
Application: Church leaders must embrace both relational ministry and bold gospel proclamation.

Acts 20:24 — “I consider my life worth nothing to me…”

Explanation: Paul declares that finishing the task given by Jesus is worth more than his own life.
Cross-reference: Philippians 1:21 – “For to me, to live is Christ…”; 2 Timothy 4:7 – Paul’s finished race.
Doctrinal Insight: This reflects complete surrender to Christ’s mission, embracing the cost of discipleship.
Application: Evaluate your life purpose by God’s calling, not personal comfort or ambition.

Acts 20:28 — “Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood.”

Explanation: Elders are reminded that the church belongs to God, purchased through the blood of Christ.
Cross-reference: 1 Peter 5:2-4 – shepherding the flock willingly and eagerly; John 10:11 – the Good Shepherd lays down His life.
Doctrinal Insight: This affirms Christ’s divinity (God’s own blood) and atoning sacrifice.
Application: Shepherds must take their role seriously, guarding what is sacred to God.

Acts 20:29-30 — Warning Against Wolves

Explanation: Paul foresees false teachers who will distort the truth and lead disciples astray.
Cross-reference: 2 Timothy 4:3-4 – itching ears; 2 Peter 2:1 – destructive heresies.
Doctrinal Insight: The church must uphold sound doctrine and practice biblical discernment.
Application: Stay grounded in Scripture to avoid deception and equip others with truth.

Acts 20:32 — “I commit you to God and to the word of his grace…”

Explanation: Paul entrusts the elders to God’s care and the Scriptures.
Cross-reference: Psalm 19:7-11, 2 Timothy 3:16 – God’s Word builds, sanctifies, and strengthens.
Doctrinal Insight: The sufficiency of Scripture is central to Christian growth and ministry.
Application: Feed on the Word daily and entrust your people to the Bible’s life-transforming power.

Theological Implications and Connection to Jesus Christ

Acts 20 is rich with Christ-centered theology, demonstrating how the gospel is not merely an idea but a life-shaping reality grounded in the person and work of Jesus Christ.

1. Jesus as the Shepherd and Savior (v. 28)

Paul’s description of the church as purchased by God’s blood directly points to Christ’s substitutionary death.
The reference unites Jesus with God the Father, affirming His full divinity.
Christ is the Chief Shepherd (1 Peter 5:4), and all under-shepherds must mirror His love, humility, and sacrifice.

2. Jesus as the Goal of Ministry (v. 24)

Paul’s entire life is centered around the “task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace,” which is found in Christ alone.
His resolve to finish the race echoes Hebrews 12:2 – “fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.”

3. Jesus as the One Who Sends and Empowers

Paul’s apostolic mission is not self-chosen. It is given by the Lord Jesus.
Christ commissions, sends, and sustains His servants (Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 1:8).

Implication: All faithful ministry must be Christ-exalting, gospel-centered, and cross-shaped, grounded in the finished work of Jesus and pointing others to His redeeming grace.

Connection to God the Father

Acts 20 also reveals God the Father’s active role in redemptive history and church life.

1. God as Sovereign Overseer of the Church (v. 28)

Paul says the Holy Spirit has made them overseers, yet the church is called “the church of God.”
The Father initiates and owns the work of redemption. His sovereign plan is the foundation for all ministry.

2. God as the One to Whom We Are Accountable (v. 26–27)

Paul declares he is innocent of their blood because he did not shrink from preaching the whole counsel of God.
This language reflects the Old Testament watchman concept (Ezekiel 3:17-21), reminding us that we answer ultimately to God the Father.

3. God’s Grace and Word as Our Foundation (v. 32)

Paul entrusts the church to “God and the word of His grace.” This reflects a personal trust in the Father’s ongoing care and sanctifying work.
God’s grace sustains the church, shapes its growth, and brings it to completion in glory (Philippians 1:6).

Implication: The Father is the source, sustainer, and goal of all church life and mission. Ministry flows from His will, rests in His Word, and exists for His glory.

Connection to the Holy Spirit

Acts 20 strongly reflects the ministry of the Holy Spirit, both explicitly and implicitly. While not the central focus of the chapter, the Spirit’s guiding presence undergirds Paul’s actions and the church’s leadership.

1. The Holy Spirit Directs Ministry Decisions (v. 22–23)

“And now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem…”
Paul’s itinerary was not self-directed but Spirit-led. The Greek word for “compelled” (δεδεμένος) implies binding or being constrained—Paul was under divine direction.

Application: Ministry leaders must submit their plans to the Spirit’s leading, trusting Him even when the path includes suffering or uncertainty.

2. The Holy Spirit Warns of Future Trials (v. 23)

“In every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me.”
The Spirit does not only comfort—He also prepares and equips. Through prophetic insight, He strengthens Paul’s resolve to persevere.

Cross-reference: John 16:13 — “He will tell you what is yet to come.”
Application: The Holy Spirit equips the church not to avoid suffering, but to endure it faithfully with gospel clarity and courage.

3. The Holy Spirit Appoints Church Leaders (v. 28)

“Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers.”
Church leadership is not a human invention; it is a divine calling. The Spirit raises up overseers (pastors/elders) to shepherd God’s people.

Application: Leaders must view their role not as a profession but a stewardship from the Spirit.

Sermon Outline and Flow

Title: “Finishing Well: A Spirit-Led Model of Ministry”

Text: Acts 20:17-38
Theme: Faithful ministry is rooted in humility, empowered by the Spirit, grounded in truth, and shaped by sacrificial love.

I. Walk Humbly in Ministry (vv. 17–21)

Main Point: Paul served “with great humility and tears” amidst trials.
Transition: Gospel ministry doesn’t start with ambition—it starts with surrender.
Illustration: A leader who washes feet, not seeks titles, reflects Christ (John 13:12-17).
Application: Evaluate motives; are you serving for Christ or for recognition?

II. Live Fully for the Gospel (vv. 22–24)

Main Point: Paul considered his life nothing compared to finishing his task.
Transition: Life is short—our aim must be gospel faithfulness.
Example: Missionary Jim Elliot: “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep…”
Application: Are you willing to let go of comfort for the sake of Christ’s calling?

III. Teach the Whole Counsel of God (vv. 25–27)

Main Point: Paul withheld nothing but taught all of God’s Word.
Transition: Faithfulness is not preaching what’s popular, but what’s true.
Illustration: Like a doctor who must tell the whole diagnosis to heal, pastors must speak all the Word.
Application: Commit to expository teaching that forms mature believers.

IV. Shepherd with the Heart of Christ (vv. 28–31)

Main Point: Leaders are appointed by the Spirit to protect the flock.
Transition: Watchfulness is a mark of real care.
Example: Modern cyber-shepherds guard against online wolves—how much more should spiritual shepherds guard the church?
Application: Know your people. Warn. Disciple. Love sacrificially.

V. Be Generous and Blameless (vv. 32–35)

Main Point: Paul modeled a life of giving, not taking.
Transition: Ministry reflects God’s character most when it gives without expecting return.
Illustration: A mentor who worked two jobs to support his ministry as a church planter—never took a cent from the church.
Application: Live transparently. Serve sacrificially. Leave a legacy of generosity.

VI. Leave with Love and Blessing (vv. 36–38)

Main Point: Paul’s farewell was marked by prayer, tears, and godly affection.
Conclusion: Ministry is not cold leadership—it is loving, Spirit-filled shepherding.
Call to Action:
- For Leaders: Will you live and lead with humility, courage, and gospel focus?
- For the Church: Will you pray for and support shepherds who labor in the Word?

Illustrations and Examples

1. The Marathon Runner (Acts 20:24)

Imagine a marathon runner approaching the final stretch. Though weary, he presses on because he sees the finish line. Paul viewed ministry not as a sprint but a lifelong race, with Christ’s calling as the prize.

Modern Analogy: Pastor Charles Simeon served in one church for over 50 years, enduring hostility and hardship—yet he endured faithfully, trusting God’s grace.

2. The Firefighter Analogy (Acts 20:29-31)

A firefighter doesn’t sleep when he knows there’s danger ahead. He watches the skies, the sirens, the calls. Paul’s warning to the elders is like sounding the alarm before the fire spreads—false teaching is spiritual arson.

Application: Leaders must be alert, discerning, and courageous to protect the church.

3. The Shepherd’s Staff and Sword (Acts 20:28)

A shepherd carries both a staff to guide and a sword to defend. The elder’s role is both pastoral and protective—feeding and guarding the flock from wolves, even when they wear sheep’s clothing.

Application for Today’s Christian

Acts 20 is not merely a historical narrative—it is deeply instructive for modern believers. It calls Christians to intentional discipleship, faithful stewardship, and a life that reflects the gospel in both word and deed.

1. Discipleship: Living a Life that Points to Christ

Be mentored and be a mentor: Paul poured into others, especially the Ephesian elders (v. 18). Christians today should pursue discipling relationships, both learning and teaching others (2 Timothy 2:2).
Teach truth boldly and completely: Paul did not shrink back from proclaiming the “whole counsel of God” (v. 27). Believers must know the Word and share it, even when it’s countercultural.
Stay grounded in grace: Verse 32 shows that Christians grow through “the word of His grace,” not self-effort. Root your walk in the gospel, not performance.

2. Stewardship: Time, Influence, and Resources

Live with gospel priorities: Paul considered his life worth nothing unless it fulfilled his calling (v. 24). Evaluate your time, ambitions, and plans through the lens of God’s mission.
Model generosity: Paul worked with his own hands and quoted Jesus, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (v. 35). Christians should steward their finances, gifts, and energy in service to others.
Guard the spiritual health of others: Just as elders are called to “watch over the flock” (v. 28), all believers have a responsibility to encourage, protect, and edify fellow Christians (Hebrews 3:13).

3. Faithfulness and Endurance

Finish the race with joy (v. 24): Whether in full-time ministry or everyday life, every Christian is running a race. Endurance requires daily surrender, empowered by the Holy Spirit.
Prepare for trials with the Spirit’s help (v. 23): Don’t be surprised by hardship. Rely on God’s Spirit to endure suffering for Christ.

Connection to God’s Love

Acts 20 vividly illustrates God’s love and care through His provision of shepherds, His grace in calling people to Himself, and His protection of the church.

1. God’s Love Seen in the Church’s Shepherding

God “purchased the church with His own blood” (v. 28). This shows ultimate sacrificial love—the Father sent the Son to die so that the church could live.
He appoints leaders through the Holy Spirit to care for His people, which demonstrates His ongoing concern and intimate involvement in our lives.

2. God’s Love in Redemption

Paul proclaims the gospel of “God’s grace” (v. 24, 32)—a love that doesn’t wait for human merit but acts decisively to save the lost.
The entire farewell speech points to a God who cares about every believer, equipping them with truth, relationships, and the Spirit’s power for enduring the Christian life.

3. God’s Love in Discipline and Warning

Paul’s warning about “savage wolves” (v. 29) and spiritual dangers is an act of loving protection. God’s love isn’t passive—it is active in guarding His children from deception and harm.

Broader Biblical Themes

Acts 20 connects seamlessly into the grand narrative of Scripture, affirming God’s work in creation, redemption, and covenant relationship with His people.

1. Creation: Humanity’s Purpose in God’s Mission

Paul’s race and task (v. 24) echo God’s design for man to walk in obedience and worship. From the beginning, God created humans for mission and stewardship (Genesis 1:26-28).
Ministry is not a man-made invention—it is rooted in creation as humanity bears the image of God and reflects His character in faithful service.

2. Redemption: The Blood of Christ and the Word of Grace

Verse 28 is a powerful summary of the redemptive story: the church was bought by the blood of Christ. This ties to the Passover lamb (Exodus 12), the suffering servant (Isaiah 53), and is fulfilled in Jesus’ atonement (Romans 5:8).
The “word of His grace” (v. 32) is not only the message of salvation but the ongoing means of transformation, reflecting the new covenant promise of inward renewal (Jeremiah 31:33).

3. Covenant and Leadership

Paul’s farewell resembles Moses’ and Joshua’s final addresses to Israel (Deuteronomy 31, Joshua 23-24). He passes the torch to the next generation of leaders, grounded in covenantal faithfulness.
The appointment of elders by the Holy Spirit reflects the covenant community structure: God appoints shepherds to lead His people in righteousness (Ezekiel 34, John 10).

Reflection Questions for Personal Study and Small Group Discussion

Use the following questions to encourage deeper engagement with Acts 20, whether in personal devotion, discipleship groups, or leadership training.

1. What does Paul’s attitude toward ministry (vv. 18–24) teach you about your own calling or purpose in life?

In what ways are you tempted to seek comfort over calling?
How can you grow in viewing your life as a mission, not just a routine?

2. Paul says he did not hesitate to preach “the whole will of God” (v. 27). How do you ensure your faith is grounded in the full counsel of Scripture?

Are there areas of Scripture you avoid because they’re difficult or unpopular?
What steps can you take to be more biblically literate and theologically rooted?

3. Verse 28 reminds leaders to “keep watch” over themselves and the flock. What does spiritual watchfulness look like in your current context?

Are you guarding your heart from pride, laziness, or compromise?
How are you helping others remain faithful to Jesus?

4. Paul’s farewell is filled with love, prayer, and emotional connection (vv. 36–38). What does this say about the role of relationships in the church?

Are your church or ministry relationships marked by deep care and investment?
How can you strengthen the spiritual friendships God has placed in your life?

5. The Holy Spirit both guided Paul and warned him of hardships (vv. 22–23). How do you respond when God leads you into uncomfortable or challenging situations?

What helps you trust God’s plan even when it involves suffering?
How does the Spirit empower you to endure?

6. In what ways can you reflect Paul’s statement: “I consider my life worth nothing… if only I may finish the race” (v. 24)?

What distractions or fears are keeping you from fully obeying God’s calling?
What is one bold step of obedience you need to take this week?

7. Paul emphasized generosity and selfless service (v. 35). Are you more focused on giving or receiving?

How can you practice sacrificial giving of your time, resources, or gifts for the sake of others?

8. Are there “wolves” (false teaching, temptations, ideologies) that you or your community need to be protected from today?

What truths from God’s Word help you stay anchored when facing spiritual threats?

9. How does this chapter shape your understanding of pastoral leadership or Christian service in general?

Whether you’re a leader or not, what character traits from Paul’s example do you want to imitate?

10. Paul entrusts the Ephesian elders to “God and the word of his grace” (v. 32). Where do you turn when you need wisdom, strength, or direction?

Are you regularly feeding on the Word?
How is God’s grace shaping your life right now?