Verse 1-6
We see Paul leaving Ephesus, bidding farewell, and we see him "encouraging the disciples".
Paul then sets off for Macedonia and to Greece, Again we see him "speaking many words of encouragement to the people" as he travels through this area. Here, this speaks to me, how important it is that we hear the Word, for it will encourage us. And the we should also encourage each other and others in our daily "travels".
Verses 7- 12
Paul in Troas, breaks bread, knowing he will be leaving the next day, continues to talk until midnight, and Eutychus sitting in the window, goes into a deep sleep and falls to his Death! Paul rushes to him throwing his arms around him says "Don't be alarmed, He's alive!". Here, I take from this just how dangerous it is to "Fall asleep" in the Lord's Word, because this can lead to our "Death".
But There is a comforting note here, is that we can be "revived". As I can personally testify to! But don't wait until it is to late.
Verses 13-35
Paul continues his journey, arrives in Miletus. He calls for the Ephesians Elders for his farewell. In his speech to them, he states how he has been tested, but does not "shrink" from the his task. His only desire is the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace. And that they should not shrink from their task as well.
He knows they will be tested themselves and that they will come against many adversities, even from within. That they must be "on guard" and be good Shepherds of the flock! Committing them to God and his Grace, for it will build them up! That it will hard work for them and that they must help the "weak". The Lord Jesus himself said: 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.' "
They prayed together and wept, knowing that will not see him again!
Brothers I think this speech speaks for itself! We must not "shrink" or hesitate to obey the Lord's will.
In closing here, I thank the Lord for all of the REAL men in my church. I thank all of you for the Daily take away you have sent out, it has "built me up". I thank all of you for the prayers offered up in my time of weakness. For you truly have given selfishly of your yourselves.
Bro. Larry Birchfield
