Thematic Bible
Thematic Bible
Apostles » Specially devoted to the office of the ministry
whilst we shall continue our applications to prayer, and to preaching.
Verse Concepts
for I have acquainted you with the whole dispensation of God without reserve.
Verse Concepts
Christian ministers » Responsibility of
but as they oppos'd him with invectives, he shook his garment, and said, "you your selves be answerable for your own destruction, I am clear: and for the future I shall address my self to the Gentiles."
Verse Concepts
if they should not receive you, nor mind your instructions: when ye depart out of that house, or city, shake off the pagan dust from your feet. I declare unto you, the people of Sodom and Gomorrha shall find less severity in the day of judgment, than that city. By your mission you will be expos'd like sheep in the midst of wolves: be then as circumspect as serpents, and as inoffensive as doves: read more.
be upon your guard with such men, for they will deliver you up to their tribunals, and scourge you in their synagogues. and ye shall be brought before governors and kings upon my account, to bear testimony of me to them and the rest of the Gentiles. but when they take you. into custody, be not sollicitous, how or what ye shall speak, for at the very instant you shall be inspir'd what to say. for it is not properly you that speak, but the spirit of your father that speaketh by you. then the brother shall betray his brother to death, and the father his child: and children shall rise up against their parents, and be the instruments of their death. and ye shall be hated by all the world for professing my name: but he that perseveres unto the end, shall escape. Then if they persecute you in one city, fly to another: for I assure you, before you have preach'd thro' all the cities of the Jews, the son of man will come. the disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above his lord. if the disciple fare as well as his master, and the servant as his lord, is not that sufficient? if they style the master of the house Beelzebub, much more will they call his domestics so. fear them not therefore: for there is nothing hid that shall not be revealed; or secret that shall not be made known. what I tell you in private, declare it in publick: and what is whisper'd in the ear, proclaim from the battlements of the house. fear not those who can only kill the body, but cannot hurt the soul: rather fear him who is able to destroy both soul and body in Gehenna. are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? yet not one of them shall lose its life independently of your father, by whom the very hairs of your head are all numbred: lay aside then your fears, ye are of a superior rank to those animals. Whosoever therefore shall own me before men, him will I own likewise before my father who is in heaven. but whosoever shall renounce me before men, him will I also renounce before my father who is in heaven. don't imagine that I am come to bring peace upon the earth: I came not to bring peace, but war. my coming will occasion discord between the son and his father, between the daughter and her mother, between the daughter in law and her mother in law: even a man's own domestics shall prove his foes. he that loveth father or mother more than me, is unworthy of me: he that loveth son or daughter more than me, is unworthy of me. and he that does not take his cross, and so follow after me, is unworthy of me. he that would preserve his life, shall lose it: and he that exposeth his life for my sake, shall save it. He that receives you, receives me; and he that receives me, receives him that sent me.
be upon your guard with such men, for they will deliver you up to their tribunals, and scourge you in their synagogues. and ye shall be brought before governors and kings upon my account, to bear testimony of me to them and the rest of the Gentiles. but when they take you. into custody, be not sollicitous, how or what ye shall speak, for at the very instant you shall be inspir'd what to say. for it is not properly you that speak, but the spirit of your father that speaketh by you. then the brother shall betray his brother to death, and the father his child: and children shall rise up against their parents, and be the instruments of their death. and ye shall be hated by all the world for professing my name: but he that perseveres unto the end, shall escape. Then if they persecute you in one city, fly to another: for I assure you, before you have preach'd thro' all the cities of the Jews, the son of man will come. the disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above his lord. if the disciple fare as well as his master, and the servant as his lord, is not that sufficient? if they style the master of the house Beelzebub, much more will they call his domestics so. fear them not therefore: for there is nothing hid that shall not be revealed; or secret that shall not be made known. what I tell you in private, declare it in publick: and what is whisper'd in the ear, proclaim from the battlements of the house. fear not those who can only kill the body, but cannot hurt the soul: rather fear him who is able to destroy both soul and body in Gehenna. are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? yet not one of them shall lose its life independently of your father, by whom the very hairs of your head are all numbred: lay aside then your fears, ye are of a superior rank to those animals. Whosoever therefore shall own me before men, him will I own likewise before my father who is in heaven. but whosoever shall renounce me before men, him will I also renounce before my father who is in heaven. don't imagine that I am come to bring peace upon the earth: I came not to bring peace, but war. my coming will occasion discord between the son and his father, between the daughter and her mother, between the daughter in law and her mother in law: even a man's own domestics shall prove his foes. he that loveth father or mother more than me, is unworthy of me: he that loveth son or daughter more than me, is unworthy of me. and he that does not take his cross, and so follow after me, is unworthy of me. he that would preserve his life, shall lose it: and he that exposeth his life for my sake, shall save it. He that receives you, receives me; and he that receives me, receives him that sent me.
I therefore declare to you at this present time, that I am not responsible for the ruin of any: for I have acquainted you with the whole dispensation of God without reserve.
Christian ministers » Faithful » Paul
I therefore declare to you at this present time, that I am not responsible for the ruin of any: for I have acquainted you with the whole dispensation of God without reserve.
which you heard was offer'd to you, by the instructions of Epaphras, our dear fellow-servant, who is to you a faithful minister of Christ:
Verse Concepts
Christian ministers » Say good-bye to the congregation
At Miletus he sent a message to the pastors of the church at Ephesus, to come to him: and when they were arriv'd he told them, you know how I have always behav'd towards you from the first day of my arrival in Asia: how I have serv'd the Lord with all resignation, with tears, and trials occasion'd by the insidious practices of the Jews: read more.
that I have conceal'd nothing that might be useful to you, but have inform'd you of it, and instructed you therein, both in publick and in private: remonstrating both to Jews and Gentiles the advantages of a sincere repentance, and of believing in our Lord Jesus Christ. but now I am fix'd in my resolution to go to Jerusalem, without any apprehension of what may befal me there: save what the holy spirit in every city declares, "that bonds and afflictions wait for me." things that little affect me, nor is life so much my concern, as to finish my course, and the charge I receiv'd from the Lord Jesus, to attest the declaration of the divine favour. and now I am persuaded you will none of you see my face any more: whilst I have been among you, I have proclaim'd the kingdom of the Messias: I therefore declare to you at this present time, that I am not responsible for the ruin of any: for I have acquainted you with the whole dispensation of God without reserve. be therefore upon your guard to secure your selves, and the whole flock over which the holy spirit has made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he has purchased with his own blood. for I know when I am gone, you will be oppress'd by wolves, that will not spare the flock. nay, among your own body some will start up to vent their intricate conceits, and draw a number of followers. be then upon the watch, and remember, that for three years I have not ceased by night, or by day to warn every soul of you, even with tears. and now, my brethren, I recommend you to God, and to his gracious dispensation, which is able to improve you, and secure to you the inheritance with those who are sanctify'd. I have not desir'd to get from any one either silver, or gold, or apparel. you yourselves can witness, that what was necessary for myself and those who were with me, these very hands have supply'd. my constant example has shown you that the disabled should be assisted by your labours, remembring the words of the Lord Jesus, who said, "it is a greater happiness to give than to receive." After this discourse, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all. then melted into tears, they fell upon his neck and kissed him, being more particularly afflicted at his having said, "they should see his face no more." and then they conducted him to the ship.
that I have conceal'd nothing that might be useful to you, but have inform'd you of it, and instructed you therein, both in publick and in private: remonstrating both to Jews and Gentiles the advantages of a sincere repentance, and of believing in our Lord Jesus Christ. but now I am fix'd in my resolution to go to Jerusalem, without any apprehension of what may befal me there: save what the holy spirit in every city declares, "that bonds and afflictions wait for me." things that little affect me, nor is life so much my concern, as to finish my course, and the charge I receiv'd from the Lord Jesus, to attest the declaration of the divine favour. and now I am persuaded you will none of you see my face any more: whilst I have been among you, I have proclaim'd the kingdom of the Messias: I therefore declare to you at this present time, that I am not responsible for the ruin of any: for I have acquainted you with the whole dispensation of God without reserve. be therefore upon your guard to secure your selves, and the whole flock over which the holy spirit has made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he has purchased with his own blood. for I know when I am gone, you will be oppress'd by wolves, that will not spare the flock. nay, among your own body some will start up to vent their intricate conceits, and draw a number of followers. be then upon the watch, and remember, that for three years I have not ceased by night, or by day to warn every soul of you, even with tears. and now, my brethren, I recommend you to God, and to his gracious dispensation, which is able to improve you, and secure to you the inheritance with those who are sanctify'd. I have not desir'd to get from any one either silver, or gold, or apparel. you yourselves can witness, that what was necessary for myself and those who were with me, these very hands have supply'd. my constant example has shown you that the disabled should be assisted by your labours, remembring the words of the Lord Jesus, who said, "it is a greater happiness to give than to receive." After this discourse, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all. then melted into tears, they fell upon his neck and kissed him, being more particularly afflicted at his having said, "they should see his face no more." and then they conducted him to the ship.
The Counsels and purposes of God » Should be declared by ministers
for I have acquainted you with the whole dispensation of God without reserve.
Verse Concepts
Ephesus » Paul visits and preaches in
being arriv'd at Ephesus, he left them there, and went himself to the synagogue, where he disputed with the Jews, who desired him to stay longer with them, but he would not consent to it: for, said he, in taking his leave, I must necessarily keep the approaching feast at Jerusalem: after which I will return to you if God permit.
for Paul had determined not to go ashore at Ephesus, to avoid losing time in Asia: because he was eager to get to Jerusalem, if possible, by the day of pentecost. At Miletus he sent a message to the pastors of the church at Ephesus, to come to him: and when they were arriv'd he told them, you know how I have always behav'd towards you from the first day of my arrival in Asia: read more.
how I have serv'd the Lord with all resignation, with tears, and trials occasion'd by the insidious practices of the Jews: that I have conceal'd nothing that might be useful to you, but have inform'd you of it, and instructed you therein, both in publick and in private: remonstrating both to Jews and Gentiles the advantages of a sincere repentance, and of believing in our Lord Jesus Christ. but now I am fix'd in my resolution to go to Jerusalem, without any apprehension of what may befal me there: save what the holy spirit in every city declares, "that bonds and afflictions wait for me." things that little affect me, nor is life so much my concern, as to finish my course, and the charge I receiv'd from the Lord Jesus, to attest the declaration of the divine favour. and now I am persuaded you will none of you see my face any more: whilst I have been among you, I have proclaim'd the kingdom of the Messias: I therefore declare to you at this present time, that I am not responsible for the ruin of any: for I have acquainted you with the whole dispensation of God without reserve. be therefore upon your guard to secure your selves, and the whole flock over which the holy spirit has made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he has purchased with his own blood. for I know when I am gone, you will be oppress'd by wolves, that will not spare the flock. nay, among your own body some will start up to vent their intricate conceits, and draw a number of followers. be then upon the watch, and remember, that for three years I have not ceased by night, or by day to warn every soul of you, even with tears. and now, my brethren, I recommend you to God, and to his gracious dispensation, which is able to improve you, and secure to you the inheritance with those who are sanctify'd. I have not desir'd to get from any one either silver, or gold, or apparel. you yourselves can witness, that what was necessary for myself and those who were with me, these very hands have supply'd. my constant example has shown you that the disabled should be assisted by your labours, remembring the words of the Lord Jesus, who said, "it is a greater happiness to give than to receive." After this discourse, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all. then melted into tears, they fell upon his neck and kissed him, being more particularly afflicted at his having said, "they should see his face no more." and then they conducted him to the ship.
how I have serv'd the Lord with all resignation, with tears, and trials occasion'd by the insidious practices of the Jews: that I have conceal'd nothing that might be useful to you, but have inform'd you of it, and instructed you therein, both in publick and in private: remonstrating both to Jews and Gentiles the advantages of a sincere repentance, and of believing in our Lord Jesus Christ. but now I am fix'd in my resolution to go to Jerusalem, without any apprehension of what may befal me there: save what the holy spirit in every city declares, "that bonds and afflictions wait for me." things that little affect me, nor is life so much my concern, as to finish my course, and the charge I receiv'd from the Lord Jesus, to attest the declaration of the divine favour. and now I am persuaded you will none of you see my face any more: whilst I have been among you, I have proclaim'd the kingdom of the Messias: I therefore declare to you at this present time, that I am not responsible for the ruin of any: for I have acquainted you with the whole dispensation of God without reserve. be therefore upon your guard to secure your selves, and the whole flock over which the holy spirit has made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he has purchased with his own blood. for I know when I am gone, you will be oppress'd by wolves, that will not spare the flock. nay, among your own body some will start up to vent their intricate conceits, and draw a number of followers. be then upon the watch, and remember, that for three years I have not ceased by night, or by day to warn every soul of you, even with tears. and now, my brethren, I recommend you to God, and to his gracious dispensation, which is able to improve you, and secure to you the inheritance with those who are sanctify'd. I have not desir'd to get from any one either silver, or gold, or apparel. you yourselves can witness, that what was necessary for myself and those who were with me, these very hands have supply'd. my constant example has shown you that the disabled should be assisted by your labours, remembring the words of the Lord Jesus, who said, "it is a greater happiness to give than to receive." After this discourse, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all. then melted into tears, they fell upon his neck and kissed him, being more particularly afflicted at his having said, "they should see his face no more." and then they conducted him to the ship.
Faithfulness » Exemplified » Paul
for I have acquainted you with the whole dispensation of God without reserve.
Verse Concepts
that I have conceal'd nothing that might be useful to you, but have inform'd you of it, and instructed you therein, both in publick and in private:
Verse Concepts
Miletus » And sends to ephesus for the elders of the congregation, and addresses them at
At Miletus he sent a message to the pastors of the church at Ephesus, to come to him: and when they were arriv'd he told them, you know how I have always behav'd towards you from the first day of my arrival in Asia: how I have serv'd the Lord with all resignation, with tears, and trials occasion'd by the insidious practices of the Jews: read more.
that I have conceal'd nothing that might be useful to you, but have inform'd you of it, and instructed you therein, both in publick and in private: remonstrating both to Jews and Gentiles the advantages of a sincere repentance, and of believing in our Lord Jesus Christ. but now I am fix'd in my resolution to go to Jerusalem, without any apprehension of what may befal me there: save what the holy spirit in every city declares, "that bonds and afflictions wait for me." things that little affect me, nor is life so much my concern, as to finish my course, and the charge I receiv'd from the Lord Jesus, to attest the declaration of the divine favour. and now I am persuaded you will none of you see my face any more: whilst I have been among you, I have proclaim'd the kingdom of the Messias: I therefore declare to you at this present time, that I am not responsible for the ruin of any: for I have acquainted you with the whole dispensation of God without reserve. be therefore upon your guard to secure your selves, and the whole flock over which the holy spirit has made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he has purchased with his own blood. for I know when I am gone, you will be oppress'd by wolves, that will not spare the flock. nay, among your own body some will start up to vent their intricate conceits, and draw a number of followers. be then upon the watch, and remember, that for three years I have not ceased by night, or by day to warn every soul of you, even with tears. and now, my brethren, I recommend you to God, and to his gracious dispensation, which is able to improve you, and secure to you the inheritance with those who are sanctify'd. I have not desir'd to get from any one either silver, or gold, or apparel. you yourselves can witness, that what was necessary for myself and those who were with me, these very hands have supply'd. my constant example has shown you that the disabled should be assisted by your labours, remembring the words of the Lord Jesus, who said, "it is a greater happiness to give than to receive." After this discourse, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all. then melted into tears, they fell upon his neck and kissed him, being more particularly afflicted at his having said, "they should see his face no more." and then they conducted him to the ship.
that I have conceal'd nothing that might be useful to you, but have inform'd you of it, and instructed you therein, both in publick and in private: remonstrating both to Jews and Gentiles the advantages of a sincere repentance, and of believing in our Lord Jesus Christ. but now I am fix'd in my resolution to go to Jerusalem, without any apprehension of what may befal me there: save what the holy spirit in every city declares, "that bonds and afflictions wait for me." things that little affect me, nor is life so much my concern, as to finish my course, and the charge I receiv'd from the Lord Jesus, to attest the declaration of the divine favour. and now I am persuaded you will none of you see my face any more: whilst I have been among you, I have proclaim'd the kingdom of the Messias: I therefore declare to you at this present time, that I am not responsible for the ruin of any: for I have acquainted you with the whole dispensation of God without reserve. be therefore upon your guard to secure your selves, and the whole flock over which the holy spirit has made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he has purchased with his own blood. for I know when I am gone, you will be oppress'd by wolves, that will not spare the flock. nay, among your own body some will start up to vent their intricate conceits, and draw a number of followers. be then upon the watch, and remember, that for three years I have not ceased by night, or by day to warn every soul of you, even with tears. and now, my brethren, I recommend you to God, and to his gracious dispensation, which is able to improve you, and secure to you the inheritance with those who are sanctify'd. I have not desir'd to get from any one either silver, or gold, or apparel. you yourselves can witness, that what was necessary for myself and those who were with me, these very hands have supply'd. my constant example has shown you that the disabled should be assisted by your labours, remembring the words of the Lord Jesus, who said, "it is a greater happiness to give than to receive." After this discourse, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all. then melted into tears, they fell upon his neck and kissed him, being more particularly afflicted at his having said, "they should see his face no more." and then they conducted him to the ship.
Ministers » Should preach » Fully, and without reserve
for I have acquainted you with the whole dispensation of God without reserve.
Verse Concepts
that I have conceal'd nothing that might be useful to you, but have inform'd you of it, and instructed you therein, both in publick and in private:
Verse Concepts
go, stand in the temple, and declare to the people, the whole doctrine of life.
Verse Concepts
Missionary journeys » Ac 13-14 » Third - with timothy and others
after he had stay'd there some time, he departed and pass'd through all Galatia and Phrygia, where he encourag'd the disciples. In the mean time a Jew, nam'd Apollos, born at Alexandria, a man of letters, and vers'd in the scriptures, arriv'd at Ephesus. he had been instructed in the doctrine of the gospel, and being full of zeal, he harangued with great assiduity about what related to Jesus, though he had been only instituted in the baptism of John. read more.
having talk'd with great freedom in the synagogue, Aquila and Priscilla, who had heard him, invited him home, and gave him a more distinct view of the gospel. and being determin'd to pass into Achaia, the brethren who advis'd him to it, writ to the disciples to receive him. when he was arrived, he was, by the divine favour, very useful to those, who had receiv'd the faith. for he strenuously disputed with the Jews in publick, proving from the scriptures that Jesus was the Messiah. Whilst Apollos was at Corinth, Paul, having pass'd through the upper provinces of Asia, arrived at Ephesus, where finding some disciples, he said to them, did you receive the holy spirit, when you made profession of your faith? they answer'd, we have not so much as heard of a holy spirit. what baptism then, said he, did you receive? they replied, the baptism of John. upon which Paul said, John indeed administer'd the baptism of repentance, but with this admonition, that they should believe in him, who was to come after, that is, in Jesus the Messias. when they heard this, they were initiated by baptism into the christian profession. and Paul having given them imposition of hands, the holy spirit came upon them, and they spoke foreign languages, and prophesied: the number of them being about twelve. At length Paul went to the synagogue, where he spoke with great freedom, and for three months he conferr'd with them to persuade them of the truth of the evangelical kingdom. but some of them being such obdurate infidels as to inveigh against the institution before the populace, he retired, and taking the disciples with him, he instructed them daily in the school of one Tyrannus. this he continued for two years; so that the Jews and proselytes of that part of Asia heard the doctrine of the Lord Jesus. the miracles which God wrought by the ministry of Paul being of such an extraordinary nature, that by applying the handkerchiefs, or aprons that had touch'd his skin, to the distemper'd, they were cured, and the evil spirits came out of the possessed. Upon this, certain vagabond Jews, who were exorcists, pretended to cure demoniacs by pronouncing the name of the Lord Jesus: their form being this, "I adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preaches." these practitioners were seven in number, the sons of Sceva a Jew, one of the chief priests. but the evil spirit said to them, "Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye?" the man who was possess'd immediately leapt upon them, got the better, and used them so roughly, they were forc'd to fly out of the house, cover'd with nothing but their wounds. this was known to all the Jews and Greeks, that liv'd at Ephesus, who were all seiz'd with fear, and the name of the Lord Jesus was exalted. many that believed came to confess, and give an account of their past actions. many that had practis'd magical arts, brought the books and publickly threw them into the fire: the value by computation amounting to fifty thousand pieces of silver. thus the christian doctrine flourish'd and prevail'd. after this, Paul had a design to pass thro' Macedonia and Achaia in his way to Jerusalem: purposing when he had been there to make a visit to Rome. he sent therefore Timothy and Erastus, two of his assistants in the ministry, before to Macedonia; but stay'd himself in Asia for some time. It was then a tumult happen'd at Ephesus upon account of the christian sect. for one Demetrius, a silver-smith, who made little models of Diana's temple, and so furnish'd a deal of employment to the workmen in that trade, summon'd the company, and thus address'd them, "tho' you know, sirs, it is by this craft that we are in such plight, yet your own eyes and ears have inform'd you, that not only at Ephesus, but almost throughout all Asia, this Paul by his persuasions has turn'd the heads of a world of people, asserting, that these are Gods of our own making, and not really such. so that not only our profession runs the risk of being vilified; but the temple of the great goddess Diana will be depreciated, and her majesty, so rever'd thro' all Asia, and the whole world, will be discarded." at these words, they were fir'd with indignation, and cry'd out, "great is Diana of the Ephesians." and the whole city was fill'd with confusion: all crouded in a body to the theatre, dragging with them Gaius and Aristarchus, both of Macedonia, who had travell'd with Paul. upon this Paul was bent upon going. to the populace, but was prevented by his disciples, and by the primates of Asia, who were his friends, and sent to desire he would not venture to the theatre: there the mob were in the utmost riot, some bawling out in one cry, some in another, and the greatest part at a loss to know why they were met. at last Alexander was disengag'd from the croud, and accus'd by the Jews. then he waved his hand, desiring to make his defence before them all. but when they knew he was a Jew, they cry'd out one and all for the space of two hours, "great is Diana of the Ephesians." at length the town-clerk appeased the people, and thus began, "who is there, O Ephesians, that does not know, that the city of Ephesus is the guardian of the temple of the great Diana, and of her statue, which fell from heaven: since this is incontestible, it behoves you to be easy, and free from any rash conduct: for the men you have brought here, have neither plunder'd your temples, nor inveigh'd against your goddess. if Demetrius and the other artists, that are with him, can lay their action against any man, the law is open, and the proconsul is near; let them begin their process. but if the contest be about other matters, it may be decided in a regular assembly. for we run the risk of being answerable for this day's sedition: there being no justifiable occasion for such a commotion." having thus harangued them, he broke up the assembly. This disturbance being over, Paul sent for the disciples, took his leave and departed for Macedonia. after having visited the faithful in those parts, and given them many exhortations, he went to Greece. there he stay'd three months; and then the Jews conspiring to surprize him at his embarkation for Syria, it was thought adviseable he should return thro' Macedonia. Sopater of Berea, Aristarchus and Secundus of Thessalonica, Gaius of Derby and Timothy, Tychicus and Trophimus both Asiatics, all accompanied him to Asia, and then advanc'd before and waited for us at Troas. after the feast of unleaven'd bread we sail'd from Philippi, and in five days we join'd them at Troas, where we stay'd seven. on the first day of the week we assembled to break bread, when Paul, who was to depart on the morrow, gave them a sermon, which lasted till midnight. in the upper chamber where we were assembled, several lamps were burning: and as Paul continued his discourse a great while, a young man, named Eutychus, who was sitting in the window, was seiz'd with a deep sleep, which quite o'er-came him; so that he fell down from the third story, and was taken up dead. so Paul went down, and stooping over him, he embraced him, and said, don't trouble your selves; for his life is in him. then Paul went up again, and having broken bread and eaten, he reassumed his discourse till break of day, and then departed. but the young man was brought in alive and well, to the joy of the whole assembly. As for us, we embark'd, and sail'd to Assos, where by appointment Paul was to be taken aboard, designing himself to go thither by land. meeting with him at Assos, we took him in and arriv'd at Mitylene: from thence we bore away: the next day we came off Chios, and the day after we pass'd by Samos, landing at Trogyllium, and arrived at Miletus the next day. for Paul had determined not to go ashore at Ephesus, to avoid losing time in Asia: because he was eager to get to Jerusalem, if possible, by the day of pentecost. At Miletus he sent a message to the pastors of the church at Ephesus, to come to him: and when they were arriv'd he told them, you know how I have always behav'd towards you from the first day of my arrival in Asia: how I have serv'd the Lord with all resignation, with tears, and trials occasion'd by the insidious practices of the Jews: that I have conceal'd nothing that might be useful to you, but have inform'd you of it, and instructed you therein, both in publick and in private: remonstrating both to Jews and Gentiles the advantages of a sincere repentance, and of believing in our Lord Jesus Christ. but now I am fix'd in my resolution to go to Jerusalem, without any apprehension of what may befal me there: save what the holy spirit in every city declares, "that bonds and afflictions wait for me." things that little affect me, nor is life so much my concern, as to finish my course, and the charge I receiv'd from the Lord Jesus, to attest the declaration of the divine favour. and now I am persuaded you will none of you see my face any more: whilst I have been among you, I have proclaim'd the kingdom of the Messias: I therefore declare to you at this present time, that I am not responsible for the ruin of any: for I have acquainted you with the whole dispensation of God without reserve. be therefore upon your guard to secure your selves, and the whole flock over which the holy spirit has made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he has purchased with his own blood. for I know when I am gone, you will be oppress'd by wolves, that will not spare the flock. nay, among your own body some will start up to vent their intricate conceits, and draw a number of followers. be then upon the watch, and remember, that for three years I have not ceased by night, or by day to warn every soul of you, even with tears. and now, my brethren, I recommend you to God, and to his gracious dispensation, which is able to improve you, and secure to you the inheritance with those who are sanctify'd. I have not desir'd to get from any one either silver, or gold, or apparel. you yourselves can witness, that what was necessary for myself and those who were with me, these very hands have supply'd. my constant example has shown you that the disabled should be assisted by your labours, remembring the words of the Lord Jesus, who said, "it is a greater happiness to give than to receive." After this discourse, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all. then melted into tears, they fell upon his neck and kissed him, being more particularly afflicted at his having said, "they should see his face no more." and then they conducted him to the ship. After we were parted from them, and clear of land, we made directly for Cos, the next day to Rhodes, and from thence to Patara: where finding a vessel bound to Phoenicia, we went aboard, and put off. having made Cyprus, leaving it to the North, we took our course to Syria, and landed at Tyre, where the ship was to unlade her cargo. we staid seven days with the disciples we met there: who told Paul from the holy spirit, that he should not go to Jerusalem. that time being ended, we departed, being conducted by them in a body with the women and children quite out of the city, where we kneeled down on the shore, and prayed. then having taken our leave of one another, we embark'd and they went home. From Tyre we sail'd to Ptolemais, which ended our voyage. we saluted the brethren there, and staid a day with them. on the morrow we set out, and arriv'd at Cesarea, and went to the house of Philip the evangelist, with whom we lodg'd: he was one of the seven deacons, and had four daughters all virgins, prophetesses. after we had been there several days, a prophet arriv'd from Judea, one Agabus, who made us a visit. when taking Paul's girdle, he bound his own feet and hands, and said, "thus saith the holy spirit, so shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man, that owns this girdle, and deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles." upon hearing this, we and some of the city intreated him not to go to Jerusalem. but Paul replied, what do you mean by afflicting me thus with your tears? I am not only ready to meet my chains, but even to die at Jerusalem, for the name of the Lord Jesus. he being then inflexible, we desisted, saying, the will of the Lord be done. after this we prepar'd for our journey to Jerusalem.
having talk'd with great freedom in the synagogue, Aquila and Priscilla, who had heard him, invited him home, and gave him a more distinct view of the gospel. and being determin'd to pass into Achaia, the brethren who advis'd him to it, writ to the disciples to receive him. when he was arrived, he was, by the divine favour, very useful to those, who had receiv'd the faith. for he strenuously disputed with the Jews in publick, proving from the scriptures that Jesus was the Messiah. Whilst Apollos was at Corinth, Paul, having pass'd through the upper provinces of Asia, arrived at Ephesus, where finding some disciples, he said to them, did you receive the holy spirit, when you made profession of your faith? they answer'd, we have not so much as heard of a holy spirit. what baptism then, said he, did you receive? they replied, the baptism of John. upon which Paul said, John indeed administer'd the baptism of repentance, but with this admonition, that they should believe in him, who was to come after, that is, in Jesus the Messias. when they heard this, they were initiated by baptism into the christian profession. and Paul having given them imposition of hands, the holy spirit came upon them, and they spoke foreign languages, and prophesied: the number of them being about twelve. At length Paul went to the synagogue, where he spoke with great freedom, and for three months he conferr'd with them to persuade them of the truth of the evangelical kingdom. but some of them being such obdurate infidels as to inveigh against the institution before the populace, he retired, and taking the disciples with him, he instructed them daily in the school of one Tyrannus. this he continued for two years; so that the Jews and proselytes of that part of Asia heard the doctrine of the Lord Jesus. the miracles which God wrought by the ministry of Paul being of such an extraordinary nature, that by applying the handkerchiefs, or aprons that had touch'd his skin, to the distemper'd, they were cured, and the evil spirits came out of the possessed. Upon this, certain vagabond Jews, who were exorcists, pretended to cure demoniacs by pronouncing the name of the Lord Jesus: their form being this, "I adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preaches." these practitioners were seven in number, the sons of Sceva a Jew, one of the chief priests. but the evil spirit said to them, "Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye?" the man who was possess'd immediately leapt upon them, got the better, and used them so roughly, they were forc'd to fly out of the house, cover'd with nothing but their wounds. this was known to all the Jews and Greeks, that liv'd at Ephesus, who were all seiz'd with fear, and the name of the Lord Jesus was exalted. many that believed came to confess, and give an account of their past actions. many that had practis'd magical arts, brought the books and publickly threw them into the fire: the value by computation amounting to fifty thousand pieces of silver. thus the christian doctrine flourish'd and prevail'd. after this, Paul had a design to pass thro' Macedonia and Achaia in his way to Jerusalem: purposing when he had been there to make a visit to Rome. he sent therefore Timothy and Erastus, two of his assistants in the ministry, before to Macedonia; but stay'd himself in Asia for some time. It was then a tumult happen'd at Ephesus upon account of the christian sect. for one Demetrius, a silver-smith, who made little models of Diana's temple, and so furnish'd a deal of employment to the workmen in that trade, summon'd the company, and thus address'd them, "tho' you know, sirs, it is by this craft that we are in such plight, yet your own eyes and ears have inform'd you, that not only at Ephesus, but almost throughout all Asia, this Paul by his persuasions has turn'd the heads of a world of people, asserting, that these are Gods of our own making, and not really such. so that not only our profession runs the risk of being vilified; but the temple of the great goddess Diana will be depreciated, and her majesty, so rever'd thro' all Asia, and the whole world, will be discarded." at these words, they were fir'd with indignation, and cry'd out, "great is Diana of the Ephesians." and the whole city was fill'd with confusion: all crouded in a body to the theatre, dragging with them Gaius and Aristarchus, both of Macedonia, who had travell'd with Paul. upon this Paul was bent upon going. to the populace, but was prevented by his disciples, and by the primates of Asia, who were his friends, and sent to desire he would not venture to the theatre: there the mob were in the utmost riot, some bawling out in one cry, some in another, and the greatest part at a loss to know why they were met. at last Alexander was disengag'd from the croud, and accus'd by the Jews. then he waved his hand, desiring to make his defence before them all. but when they knew he was a Jew, they cry'd out one and all for the space of two hours, "great is Diana of the Ephesians." at length the town-clerk appeased the people, and thus began, "who is there, O Ephesians, that does not know, that the city of Ephesus is the guardian of the temple of the great Diana, and of her statue, which fell from heaven: since this is incontestible, it behoves you to be easy, and free from any rash conduct: for the men you have brought here, have neither plunder'd your temples, nor inveigh'd against your goddess. if Demetrius and the other artists, that are with him, can lay their action against any man, the law is open, and the proconsul is near; let them begin their process. but if the contest be about other matters, it may be decided in a regular assembly. for we run the risk of being answerable for this day's sedition: there being no justifiable occasion for such a commotion." having thus harangued them, he broke up the assembly. This disturbance being over, Paul sent for the disciples, took his leave and departed for Macedonia. after having visited the faithful in those parts, and given them many exhortations, he went to Greece. there he stay'd three months; and then the Jews conspiring to surprize him at his embarkation for Syria, it was thought adviseable he should return thro' Macedonia. Sopater of Berea, Aristarchus and Secundus of Thessalonica, Gaius of Derby and Timothy, Tychicus and Trophimus both Asiatics, all accompanied him to Asia, and then advanc'd before and waited for us at Troas. after the feast of unleaven'd bread we sail'd from Philippi, and in five days we join'd them at Troas, where we stay'd seven. on the first day of the week we assembled to break bread, when Paul, who was to depart on the morrow, gave them a sermon, which lasted till midnight. in the upper chamber where we were assembled, several lamps were burning: and as Paul continued his discourse a great while, a young man, named Eutychus, who was sitting in the window, was seiz'd with a deep sleep, which quite o'er-came him; so that he fell down from the third story, and was taken up dead. so Paul went down, and stooping over him, he embraced him, and said, don't trouble your selves; for his life is in him. then Paul went up again, and having broken bread and eaten, he reassumed his discourse till break of day, and then departed. but the young man was brought in alive and well, to the joy of the whole assembly. As for us, we embark'd, and sail'd to Assos, where by appointment Paul was to be taken aboard, designing himself to go thither by land. meeting with him at Assos, we took him in and arriv'd at Mitylene: from thence we bore away: the next day we came off Chios, and the day after we pass'd by Samos, landing at Trogyllium, and arrived at Miletus the next day. for Paul had determined not to go ashore at Ephesus, to avoid losing time in Asia: because he was eager to get to Jerusalem, if possible, by the day of pentecost. At Miletus he sent a message to the pastors of the church at Ephesus, to come to him: and when they were arriv'd he told them, you know how I have always behav'd towards you from the first day of my arrival in Asia: how I have serv'd the Lord with all resignation, with tears, and trials occasion'd by the insidious practices of the Jews: that I have conceal'd nothing that might be useful to you, but have inform'd you of it, and instructed you therein, both in publick and in private: remonstrating both to Jews and Gentiles the advantages of a sincere repentance, and of believing in our Lord Jesus Christ. but now I am fix'd in my resolution to go to Jerusalem, without any apprehension of what may befal me there: save what the holy spirit in every city declares, "that bonds and afflictions wait for me." things that little affect me, nor is life so much my concern, as to finish my course, and the charge I receiv'd from the Lord Jesus, to attest the declaration of the divine favour. and now I am persuaded you will none of you see my face any more: whilst I have been among you, I have proclaim'd the kingdom of the Messias: I therefore declare to you at this present time, that I am not responsible for the ruin of any: for I have acquainted you with the whole dispensation of God without reserve. be therefore upon your guard to secure your selves, and the whole flock over which the holy spirit has made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he has purchased with his own blood. for I know when I am gone, you will be oppress'd by wolves, that will not spare the flock. nay, among your own body some will start up to vent their intricate conceits, and draw a number of followers. be then upon the watch, and remember, that for three years I have not ceased by night, or by day to warn every soul of you, even with tears. and now, my brethren, I recommend you to God, and to his gracious dispensation, which is able to improve you, and secure to you the inheritance with those who are sanctify'd. I have not desir'd to get from any one either silver, or gold, or apparel. you yourselves can witness, that what was necessary for myself and those who were with me, these very hands have supply'd. my constant example has shown you that the disabled should be assisted by your labours, remembring the words of the Lord Jesus, who said, "it is a greater happiness to give than to receive." After this discourse, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all. then melted into tears, they fell upon his neck and kissed him, being more particularly afflicted at his having said, "they should see his face no more." and then they conducted him to the ship. After we were parted from them, and clear of land, we made directly for Cos, the next day to Rhodes, and from thence to Patara: where finding a vessel bound to Phoenicia, we went aboard, and put off. having made Cyprus, leaving it to the North, we took our course to Syria, and landed at Tyre, where the ship was to unlade her cargo. we staid seven days with the disciples we met there: who told Paul from the holy spirit, that he should not go to Jerusalem. that time being ended, we departed, being conducted by them in a body with the women and children quite out of the city, where we kneeled down on the shore, and prayed. then having taken our leave of one another, we embark'd and they went home. From Tyre we sail'd to Ptolemais, which ended our voyage. we saluted the brethren there, and staid a day with them. on the morrow we set out, and arriv'd at Cesarea, and went to the house of Philip the evangelist, with whom we lodg'd: he was one of the seven deacons, and had four daughters all virgins, prophetesses. after we had been there several days, a prophet arriv'd from Judea, one Agabus, who made us a visit. when taking Paul's girdle, he bound his own feet and hands, and said, "thus saith the holy spirit, so shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man, that owns this girdle, and deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles." upon hearing this, we and some of the city intreated him not to go to Jerusalem. but Paul replied, what do you mean by afflicting me thus with your tears? I am not only ready to meet my chains, but even to die at Jerusalem, for the name of the Lord Jesus. he being then inflexible, we desisted, saying, the will of the Lord be done. after this we prepar'd for our journey to Jerusalem.
Paul » Going » Jerusalem
in our Lord Jesus Christ. but now I am fix'd in my resolution to go to Jerusalem, without any apprehension of what may befal me there: save what the holy spirit in every city declares, "that bonds and afflictions wait for me." things that little affect me, nor is life so much my concern, as to finish my course, and the charge I receiv'd from the Lord Jesus, to attest the declaration of the divine favour. read more.
and now I am persuaded you will none of you see my face any more: whilst I have been among you, I have proclaim'd the kingdom of the Messias: I therefore declare to you at this present time, that I am not responsible for the ruin of any: for I have acquainted you with the whole dispensation of God without reserve. be therefore upon your guard to secure your selves, and the whole flock over which the holy spirit has made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he has purchased with his own blood. for I know when I am gone, you will be oppress'd by wolves, that will not spare the flock. nay, among your own body some will start up to vent their intricate conceits, and draw a number of followers. be then upon the watch, and remember, that for three years I have not ceased by night, or by day to warn every soul of you, even with tears. and now, my brethren, I recommend you to God, and to his gracious dispensation, which is able to improve you, and secure to you the inheritance with those who are sanctify'd. I have not desir'd to get from any one either silver, or gold, or apparel. you yourselves can witness, that what was necessary for myself and those who were with me, these very hands have supply'd. my constant example has shown you that the disabled should be assisted by your labours, remembring the words of the Lord Jesus, who said, "it is a greater happiness to give than to receive." After this discourse, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all. then melted into tears, they fell upon his neck and kissed him, being more particularly afflicted at his having said, "they should see his face no more." and then they conducted him to the ship.
and now I am persuaded you will none of you see my face any more: whilst I have been among you, I have proclaim'd the kingdom of the Messias: I therefore declare to you at this present time, that I am not responsible for the ruin of any: for I have acquainted you with the whole dispensation of God without reserve. be therefore upon your guard to secure your selves, and the whole flock over which the holy spirit has made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he has purchased with his own blood. for I know when I am gone, you will be oppress'd by wolves, that will not spare the flock. nay, among your own body some will start up to vent their intricate conceits, and draw a number of followers. be then upon the watch, and remember, that for three years I have not ceased by night, or by day to warn every soul of you, even with tears. and now, my brethren, I recommend you to God, and to his gracious dispensation, which is able to improve you, and secure to you the inheritance with those who are sanctify'd. I have not desir'd to get from any one either silver, or gold, or apparel. you yourselves can witness, that what was necessary for myself and those who were with me, these very hands have supply'd. my constant example has shown you that the disabled should be assisted by your labours, remembring the words of the Lord Jesus, who said, "it is a greater happiness to give than to receive." After this discourse, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all. then melted into tears, they fell upon his neck and kissed him, being more particularly afflicted at his having said, "they should see his face no more." and then they conducted him to the ship.
Paul's » First - with barnabas and john mark ac 13-14 » Third - with timothy and others
after he had stay'd there some time, he departed and pass'd through all Galatia and Phrygia, where he encourag'd the disciples. In the mean time a Jew, nam'd Apollos, born at Alexandria, a man of letters, and vers'd in the scriptures, arriv'd at Ephesus. he had been instructed in the doctrine of the gospel, and being full of zeal, he harangued with great assiduity about what related to Jesus, though he had been only instituted in the baptism of John. read more.
having talk'd with great freedom in the synagogue, Aquila and Priscilla, who had heard him, invited him home, and gave him a more distinct view of the gospel. and being determin'd to pass into Achaia, the brethren who advis'd him to it, writ to the disciples to receive him. when he was arrived, he was, by the divine favour, very useful to those, who had receiv'd the faith. for he strenuously disputed with the Jews in publick, proving from the scriptures that Jesus was the Messiah. Whilst Apollos was at Corinth, Paul, having pass'd through the upper provinces of Asia, arrived at Ephesus, where finding some disciples, he said to them, did you receive the holy spirit, when you made profession of your faith? they answer'd, we have not so much as heard of a holy spirit. what baptism then, said he, did you receive? they replied, the baptism of John. upon which Paul said, John indeed administer'd the baptism of repentance, but with this admonition, that they should believe in him, who was to come after, that is, in Jesus the Messias. when they heard this, they were initiated by baptism into the christian profession. and Paul having given them imposition of hands, the holy spirit came upon them, and they spoke foreign languages, and prophesied: the number of them being about twelve. At length Paul went to the synagogue, where he spoke with great freedom, and for three months he conferr'd with them to persuade them of the truth of the evangelical kingdom. but some of them being such obdurate infidels as to inveigh against the institution before the populace, he retired, and taking the disciples with him, he instructed them daily in the school of one Tyrannus. this he continued for two years; so that the Jews and proselytes of that part of Asia heard the doctrine of the Lord Jesus. the miracles which God wrought by the ministry of Paul being of such an extraordinary nature, that by applying the handkerchiefs, or aprons that had touch'd his skin, to the distemper'd, they were cured, and the evil spirits came out of the possessed. Upon this, certain vagabond Jews, who were exorcists, pretended to cure demoniacs by pronouncing the name of the Lord Jesus: their form being this, "I adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preaches." these practitioners were seven in number, the sons of Sceva a Jew, one of the chief priests. but the evil spirit said to them, "Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye?" the man who was possess'd immediately leapt upon them, got the better, and used them so roughly, they were forc'd to fly out of the house, cover'd with nothing but their wounds. this was known to all the Jews and Greeks, that liv'd at Ephesus, who were all seiz'd with fear, and the name of the Lord Jesus was exalted. many that believed came to confess, and give an account of their past actions. many that had practis'd magical arts, brought the books and publickly threw them into the fire: the value by computation amounting to fifty thousand pieces of silver. thus the christian doctrine flourish'd and prevail'd. after this, Paul had a design to pass thro' Macedonia and Achaia in his way to Jerusalem: purposing when he had been there to make a visit to Rome. he sent therefore Timothy and Erastus, two of his assistants in the ministry, before to Macedonia; but stay'd himself in Asia for some time. It was then a tumult happen'd at Ephesus upon account of the christian sect. for one Demetrius, a silver-smith, who made little models of Diana's temple, and so furnish'd a deal of employment to the workmen in that trade, summon'd the company, and thus address'd them, "tho' you know, sirs, it is by this craft that we are in such plight, yet your own eyes and ears have inform'd you, that not only at Ephesus, but almost throughout all Asia, this Paul by his persuasions has turn'd the heads of a world of people, asserting, that these are Gods of our own making, and not really such. so that not only our profession runs the risk of being vilified; but the temple of the great goddess Diana will be depreciated, and her majesty, so rever'd thro' all Asia, and the whole world, will be discarded." at these words, they were fir'd with indignation, and cry'd out, "great is Diana of the Ephesians." and the whole city was fill'd with confusion: all crouded in a body to the theatre, dragging with them Gaius and Aristarchus, both of Macedonia, who had travell'd with Paul. upon this Paul was bent upon going. to the populace, but was prevented by his disciples, and by the primates of Asia, who were his friends, and sent to desire he would not venture to the theatre: there the mob were in the utmost riot, some bawling out in one cry, some in another, and the greatest part at a loss to know why they were met. at last Alexander was disengag'd from the croud, and accus'd by the Jews. then he waved his hand, desiring to make his defence before them all. but when they knew he was a Jew, they cry'd out one and all for the space of two hours, "great is Diana of the Ephesians." at length the town-clerk appeased the people, and thus began, "who is there, O Ephesians, that does not know, that the city of Ephesus is the guardian of the temple of the great Diana, and of her statue, which fell from heaven: since this is incontestible, it behoves you to be easy, and free from any rash conduct: for the men you have brought here, have neither plunder'd your temples, nor inveigh'd against your goddess. if Demetrius and the other artists, that are with him, can lay their action against any man, the law is open, and the proconsul is near; let them begin their process. but if the contest be about other matters, it may be decided in a regular assembly. for we run the risk of being answerable for this day's sedition: there being no justifiable occasion for such a commotion." having thus harangued them, he broke up the assembly. This disturbance being over, Paul sent for the disciples, took his leave and departed for Macedonia. after having visited the faithful in those parts, and given them many exhortations, he went to Greece. there he stay'd three months; and then the Jews conspiring to surprize him at his embarkation for Syria, it was thought adviseable he should return thro' Macedonia. Sopater of Berea, Aristarchus and Secundus of Thessalonica, Gaius of Derby and Timothy, Tychicus and Trophimus both Asiatics, all accompanied him to Asia, and then advanc'd before and waited for us at Troas. after the feast of unleaven'd bread we sail'd from Philippi, and in five days we join'd them at Troas, where we stay'd seven. on the first day of the week we assembled to break bread, when Paul, who was to depart on the morrow, gave them a sermon, which lasted till midnight. in the upper chamber where we were assembled, several lamps were burning: and as Paul continued his discourse a great while, a young man, named Eutychus, who was sitting in the window, was seiz'd with a deep sleep, which quite o'er-came him; so that he fell down from the third story, and was taken up dead. so Paul went down, and stooping over him, he embraced him, and said, don't trouble your selves; for his life is in him. then Paul went up again, and having broken bread and eaten, he reassumed his discourse till break of day, and then departed. but the young man was brought in alive and well, to the joy of the whole assembly. As for us, we embark'd, and sail'd to Assos, where by appointment Paul was to be taken aboard, designing himself to go thither by land. meeting with him at Assos, we took him in and arriv'd at Mitylene: from thence we bore away: the next day we came off Chios, and the day after we pass'd by Samos, landing at Trogyllium, and arrived at Miletus the next day. for Paul had determined not to go ashore at Ephesus, to avoid losing time in Asia: because he was eager to get to Jerusalem, if possible, by the day of pentecost. At Miletus he sent a message to the pastors of the church at Ephesus, to come to him: and when they were arriv'd he told them, you know how I have always behav'd towards you from the first day of my arrival in Asia: how I have serv'd the Lord with all resignation, with tears, and trials occasion'd by the insidious practices of the Jews: that I have conceal'd nothing that might be useful to you, but have inform'd you of it, and instructed you therein, both in publick and in private: remonstrating both to Jews and Gentiles the advantages of a sincere repentance, and of believing in our Lord Jesus Christ. but now I am fix'd in my resolution to go to Jerusalem, without any apprehension of what may befal me there: save what the holy spirit in every city declares, "that bonds and afflictions wait for me." things that little affect me, nor is life so much my concern, as to finish my course, and the charge I receiv'd from the Lord Jesus, to attest the declaration of the divine favour. and now I am persuaded you will none of you see my face any more: whilst I have been among you, I have proclaim'd the kingdom of the Messias: I therefore declare to you at this present time, that I am not responsible for the ruin of any: for I have acquainted you with the whole dispensation of God without reserve. be therefore upon your guard to secure your selves, and the whole flock over which the holy spirit has made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he has purchased with his own blood. for I know when I am gone, you will be oppress'd by wolves, that will not spare the flock. nay, among your own body some will start up to vent their intricate conceits, and draw a number of followers. be then upon the watch, and remember, that for three years I have not ceased by night, or by day to warn every soul of you, even with tears. and now, my brethren, I recommend you to God, and to his gracious dispensation, which is able to improve you, and secure to you the inheritance with those who are sanctify'd. I have not desir'd to get from any one either silver, or gold, or apparel. you yourselves can witness, that what was necessary for myself and those who were with me, these very hands have supply'd. my constant example has shown you that the disabled should be assisted by your labours, remembring the words of the Lord Jesus, who said, "it is a greater happiness to give than to receive." After this discourse, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all. then melted into tears, they fell upon his neck and kissed him, being more particularly afflicted at his having said, "they should see his face no more." and then they conducted him to the ship. After we were parted from them, and clear of land, we made directly for Cos, the next day to Rhodes, and from thence to Patara: where finding a vessel bound to Phoenicia, we went aboard, and put off. having made Cyprus, leaving it to the North, we took our course to Syria, and landed at Tyre, where the ship was to unlade her cargo. we staid seven days with the disciples we met there: who told Paul from the holy spirit, that he should not go to Jerusalem. that time being ended, we departed, being conducted by them in a body with the women and children quite out of the city, where we kneeled down on the shore, and prayed. then having taken our leave of one another, we embark'd and they went home. From Tyre we sail'd to Ptolemais, which ended our voyage. we saluted the brethren there, and staid a day with them. on the morrow we set out, and arriv'd at Cesarea, and went to the house of Philip the evangelist, with whom we lodg'd: he was one of the seven deacons, and had four daughters all virgins, prophetesses. after we had been there several days, a prophet arriv'd from Judea, one Agabus, who made us a visit. when taking Paul's girdle, he bound his own feet and hands, and said, "thus saith the holy spirit, so shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man, that owns this girdle, and deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles." upon hearing this, we and some of the city intreated him not to go to Jerusalem. but Paul replied, what do you mean by afflicting me thus with your tears? I am not only ready to meet my chains, but even to die at Jerusalem, for the name of the Lord Jesus. he being then inflexible, we desisted, saying, the will of the Lord be done. after this we prepar'd for our journey to Jerusalem.
having talk'd with great freedom in the synagogue, Aquila and Priscilla, who had heard him, invited him home, and gave him a more distinct view of the gospel. and being determin'd to pass into Achaia, the brethren who advis'd him to it, writ to the disciples to receive him. when he was arrived, he was, by the divine favour, very useful to those, who had receiv'd the faith. for he strenuously disputed with the Jews in publick, proving from the scriptures that Jesus was the Messiah. Whilst Apollos was at Corinth, Paul, having pass'd through the upper provinces of Asia, arrived at Ephesus, where finding some disciples, he said to them, did you receive the holy spirit, when you made profession of your faith? they answer'd, we have not so much as heard of a holy spirit. what baptism then, said he, did you receive? they replied, the baptism of John. upon which Paul said, John indeed administer'd the baptism of repentance, but with this admonition, that they should believe in him, who was to come after, that is, in Jesus the Messias. when they heard this, they were initiated by baptism into the christian profession. and Paul having given them imposition of hands, the holy spirit came upon them, and they spoke foreign languages, and prophesied: the number of them being about twelve. At length Paul went to the synagogue, where he spoke with great freedom, and for three months he conferr'd with them to persuade them of the truth of the evangelical kingdom. but some of them being such obdurate infidels as to inveigh against the institution before the populace, he retired, and taking the disciples with him, he instructed them daily in the school of one Tyrannus. this he continued for two years; so that the Jews and proselytes of that part of Asia heard the doctrine of the Lord Jesus. the miracles which God wrought by the ministry of Paul being of such an extraordinary nature, that by applying the handkerchiefs, or aprons that had touch'd his skin, to the distemper'd, they were cured, and the evil spirits came out of the possessed. Upon this, certain vagabond Jews, who were exorcists, pretended to cure demoniacs by pronouncing the name of the Lord Jesus: their form being this, "I adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preaches." these practitioners were seven in number, the sons of Sceva a Jew, one of the chief priests. but the evil spirit said to them, "Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye?" the man who was possess'd immediately leapt upon them, got the better, and used them so roughly, they were forc'd to fly out of the house, cover'd with nothing but their wounds. this was known to all the Jews and Greeks, that liv'd at Ephesus, who were all seiz'd with fear, and the name of the Lord Jesus was exalted. many that believed came to confess, and give an account of their past actions. many that had practis'd magical arts, brought the books and publickly threw them into the fire: the value by computation amounting to fifty thousand pieces of silver. thus the christian doctrine flourish'd and prevail'd. after this, Paul had a design to pass thro' Macedonia and Achaia in his way to Jerusalem: purposing when he had been there to make a visit to Rome. he sent therefore Timothy and Erastus, two of his assistants in the ministry, before to Macedonia; but stay'd himself in Asia for some time. It was then a tumult happen'd at Ephesus upon account of the christian sect. for one Demetrius, a silver-smith, who made little models of Diana's temple, and so furnish'd a deal of employment to the workmen in that trade, summon'd the company, and thus address'd them, "tho' you know, sirs, it is by this craft that we are in such plight, yet your own eyes and ears have inform'd you, that not only at Ephesus, but almost throughout all Asia, this Paul by his persuasions has turn'd the heads of a world of people, asserting, that these are Gods of our own making, and not really such. so that not only our profession runs the risk of being vilified; but the temple of the great goddess Diana will be depreciated, and her majesty, so rever'd thro' all Asia, and the whole world, will be discarded." at these words, they were fir'd with indignation, and cry'd out, "great is Diana of the Ephesians." and the whole city was fill'd with confusion: all crouded in a body to the theatre, dragging with them Gaius and Aristarchus, both of Macedonia, who had travell'd with Paul. upon this Paul was bent upon going. to the populace, but was prevented by his disciples, and by the primates of Asia, who were his friends, and sent to desire he would not venture to the theatre: there the mob were in the utmost riot, some bawling out in one cry, some in another, and the greatest part at a loss to know why they were met. at last Alexander was disengag'd from the croud, and accus'd by the Jews. then he waved his hand, desiring to make his defence before them all. but when they knew he was a Jew, they cry'd out one and all for the space of two hours, "great is Diana of the Ephesians." at length the town-clerk appeased the people, and thus began, "who is there, O Ephesians, that does not know, that the city of Ephesus is the guardian of the temple of the great Diana, and of her statue, which fell from heaven: since this is incontestible, it behoves you to be easy, and free from any rash conduct: for the men you have brought here, have neither plunder'd your temples, nor inveigh'd against your goddess. if Demetrius and the other artists, that are with him, can lay their action against any man, the law is open, and the proconsul is near; let them begin their process. but if the contest be about other matters, it may be decided in a regular assembly. for we run the risk of being answerable for this day's sedition: there being no justifiable occasion for such a commotion." having thus harangued them, he broke up the assembly. This disturbance being over, Paul sent for the disciples, took his leave and departed for Macedonia. after having visited the faithful in those parts, and given them many exhortations, he went to Greece. there he stay'd three months; and then the Jews conspiring to surprize him at his embarkation for Syria, it was thought adviseable he should return thro' Macedonia. Sopater of Berea, Aristarchus and Secundus of Thessalonica, Gaius of Derby and Timothy, Tychicus and Trophimus both Asiatics, all accompanied him to Asia, and then advanc'd before and waited for us at Troas. after the feast of unleaven'd bread we sail'd from Philippi, and in five days we join'd them at Troas, where we stay'd seven. on the first day of the week we assembled to break bread, when Paul, who was to depart on the morrow, gave them a sermon, which lasted till midnight. in the upper chamber where we were assembled, several lamps were burning: and as Paul continued his discourse a great while, a young man, named Eutychus, who was sitting in the window, was seiz'd with a deep sleep, which quite o'er-came him; so that he fell down from the third story, and was taken up dead. so Paul went down, and stooping over him, he embraced him, and said, don't trouble your selves; for his life is in him. then Paul went up again, and having broken bread and eaten, he reassumed his discourse till break of day, and then departed. but the young man was brought in alive and well, to the joy of the whole assembly. As for us, we embark'd, and sail'd to Assos, where by appointment Paul was to be taken aboard, designing himself to go thither by land. meeting with him at Assos, we took him in and arriv'd at Mitylene: from thence we bore away: the next day we came off Chios, and the day after we pass'd by Samos, landing at Trogyllium, and arrived at Miletus the next day. for Paul had determined not to go ashore at Ephesus, to avoid losing time in Asia: because he was eager to get to Jerusalem, if possible, by the day of pentecost. At Miletus he sent a message to the pastors of the church at Ephesus, to come to him: and when they were arriv'd he told them, you know how I have always behav'd towards you from the first day of my arrival in Asia: how I have serv'd the Lord with all resignation, with tears, and trials occasion'd by the insidious practices of the Jews: that I have conceal'd nothing that might be useful to you, but have inform'd you of it, and instructed you therein, both in publick and in private: remonstrating both to Jews and Gentiles the advantages of a sincere repentance, and of believing in our Lord Jesus Christ. but now I am fix'd in my resolution to go to Jerusalem, without any apprehension of what may befal me there: save what the holy spirit in every city declares, "that bonds and afflictions wait for me." things that little affect me, nor is life so much my concern, as to finish my course, and the charge I receiv'd from the Lord Jesus, to attest the declaration of the divine favour. and now I am persuaded you will none of you see my face any more: whilst I have been among you, I have proclaim'd the kingdom of the Messias: I therefore declare to you at this present time, that I am not responsible for the ruin of any: for I have acquainted you with the whole dispensation of God without reserve. be therefore upon your guard to secure your selves, and the whole flock over which the holy spirit has made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he has purchased with his own blood. for I know when I am gone, you will be oppress'd by wolves, that will not spare the flock. nay, among your own body some will start up to vent their intricate conceits, and draw a number of followers. be then upon the watch, and remember, that for three years I have not ceased by night, or by day to warn every soul of you, even with tears. and now, my brethren, I recommend you to God, and to his gracious dispensation, which is able to improve you, and secure to you the inheritance with those who are sanctify'd. I have not desir'd to get from any one either silver, or gold, or apparel. you yourselves can witness, that what was necessary for myself and those who were with me, these very hands have supply'd. my constant example has shown you that the disabled should be assisted by your labours, remembring the words of the Lord Jesus, who said, "it is a greater happiness to give than to receive." After this discourse, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all. then melted into tears, they fell upon his neck and kissed him, being more particularly afflicted at his having said, "they should see his face no more." and then they conducted him to the ship. After we were parted from them, and clear of land, we made directly for Cos, the next day to Rhodes, and from thence to Patara: where finding a vessel bound to Phoenicia, we went aboard, and put off. having made Cyprus, leaving it to the North, we took our course to Syria, and landed at Tyre, where the ship was to unlade her cargo. we staid seven days with the disciples we met there: who told Paul from the holy spirit, that he should not go to Jerusalem. that time being ended, we departed, being conducted by them in a body with the women and children quite out of the city, where we kneeled down on the shore, and prayed. then having taken our leave of one another, we embark'd and they went home. From Tyre we sail'd to Ptolemais, which ended our voyage. we saluted the brethren there, and staid a day with them. on the morrow we set out, and arriv'd at Cesarea, and went to the house of Philip the evangelist, with whom we lodg'd: he was one of the seven deacons, and had four daughters all virgins, prophetesses. after we had been there several days, a prophet arriv'd from Judea, one Agabus, who made us a visit. when taking Paul's girdle, he bound his own feet and hands, and said, "thus saith the holy spirit, so shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man, that owns this girdle, and deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles." upon hearing this, we and some of the city intreated him not to go to Jerusalem. but Paul replied, what do you mean by afflicting me thus with your tears? I am not only ready to meet my chains, but even to die at Jerusalem, for the name of the Lord Jesus. he being then inflexible, we desisted, saying, the will of the Lord be done. after this we prepar'd for our journey to Jerusalem.