Acts 18:20 meaning
In the unfolding narrative of Paul’s missionary journeys, the events leading up to this verse highlight his strategic ministry in Ephesus, where he found an open audience among the Jews. His declaration in the verse indicates a responsive community that expressed a desire for him to return, suggesting the effectiveness of his preaching. After establishing connections in Ephesus, Paul decided to continue his mission to Syria, accompanied by Priscilla and Aquila, two significant co-laborers in the gospel. This moment underscores the importance of partnership in ministry as they collectively witnessed to both Jews and Gentiles during a pivotal era for the Church.
The verse reflects Paul's commitment to aligning his plans with divine guidance, often articulated in early Christian contexts as "if God wills." The acknowledgment of God’s sovereignty in his travels was fundamental for Paul, as he sought to ensure his efforts bore fruit according to God’s divine purpose. Through this lens, Paul's actions illustrate a core principle of faith—submitting our plans to God’s will, which resonates with the overarching theme of trust and obedience throughout scripture, particularly amid the challenges of ministry.
This verse can be found in Acts 18:20.
This quick synopsis was AI autogenerated utilizing existing TheBibleSays commentaries as the primary source material. To read a related commentary that has been fully developed, see the list below. If there is an issue with this summary please let us know by emailing:[email protected]
Deeper Commentary Covering this Verse:
- Acts 18:12-22 meaning. A new Roman proconsul, Gallio, comes to Corinth to govern the province of Achaia. The hostile Jews bring Paul to Gallio and ask him to get rid of Paul. Gallio dismisses them, since there is no criminal charge against Paul. The proconsul of Rome is not concerned with Jewish religious quarrels. The Jews return to Gallio, dragging with them the new leader of the synagogue, Sosthenes, who is apparently a believer. They beat Sosthenes in front of Gallio. Gallio still will not do anything about Paul. Paul and his team decide to leave Corinth. Priscilla and Aquila go with them. The married couple stop in Ephesus to live there. Paul preaches the gospel in Ephesus and tells the interested Jews there that he will return if God wills it. He sails back to Israel, visits the Jerusalem church, then returns to the Syrian Antioch church.
Other Relevant Commentaries:
- Acts 20:25-38 meaning. Paul tells the Ephesian elders they will never see him again. He warns them to be on guard for themselves and the people in their church, because false teachers will come in to corrupt the truth, like wolves attacking a flock of sheep. The elders’ job is to protect the flock and trust in Christ. Paul reminds them to remember his example, and to faithfully live out God’s word in their lives so that they might receive the inheritance of Christ. Lastly, he reminds them to give generously and bless those who are needy. The elders weep and embrace Paul, and see him off to his ship.
- Acts 18:12-22 meaning. A new Roman proconsul, Gallio, comes to Corinth to govern the province of Achaia. The hostile Jews bring Paul to Gallio and ask him to get rid of Paul. Gallio dismisses them, since there is no criminal charge against Paul. The proconsul of Rome is not concerned with Jewish religious quarrels. The Jews return to Gallio, dragging with them the new leader of the synagogue, Sosthenes, who is apparently a believer. They beat Sosthenes in front of Gallio. Gallio still will not do anything about Paul. Paul and his team decide to leave Corinth. Priscilla and Aquila go with them. The married couple stop in Ephesus to live there. Paul preaches the gospel in Ephesus and tells the interested Jews there that he will return if God wills it. He sails back to Israel, visits the Jerusalem church, then returns to the Syrian Antioch church.
- Genesis 17:18-20 meaning. Abraham presumes God meant that His promises to bless him and his descendants would come through Ishmael.