Acts 20:17-23 – Paul and the Elders

Paul was accompanied by seven men (v.4) who were possibly representing the various Gentile churches who had contributed money to relieve the church at Jerusalem. The apostle was deeply concerned that this help should be both given and received to express the oneness of the whole body of Christ, both Jew and Gentile (2 Corinthians 8:1-5 & ch.9:, Romans15:25-28).

As he proceeds toward Jerusalem, he calls the elders of the Ephesian church to meet him at Miletus. In verse 28, he calls them ‘overseers’ – episkopos – the word is sometimes translated ‘bishop’ (1 Timothy 3:1, Titus 1:7, Philippians 1:1) since elders and bishops describe the same office.

Questions
1. Who does Paul call to meet him?
2. Who do elders oversee?

Prayer Points
1. Give thanks for our elders.
2. Use prayer points from your congregation.
3. Pray for family matters.