When Paul went to Miletus, he sent for the elders of Ephesus, reminding them of his work (apostle’s work) among them and exhorting them to take heed to themselves and the flock. Knowing they would never see his face again, he wanted them to be reminded of their most pressing obligation in shepherding the saints among them (Ephesus). The future of those saints in that town would largely depend on the leadership they followed. Therefore, combining Paul’s example with very clear instructions, their work, and their work’s purpose was unmistakable.
First, he leaves a pattern of teaching to follow by placing his own example of work as a model. Reminding them of his work, he wishes they would continue in the following areas. (1) He served the Lord with humility of mind and many tears (Acts 20:19), (2) he kept back nothing that was profitable but taught publicly and from house to house (v. 20), (3) he counted not his life dear unto himself (v. 24), and (4) had not shunned to declare the whole counsel (v. 27).
After reminding them of his work among them, he then switches to their special task as shepherds when he gives the following instruction:
- “Therefore, take heed to yourselves and the flock..”
- “Therefore, watch and remember …that I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.” These men must dedicate themselves as did Paul to “spend and be spent” for the brethren, to warn with tears, to sacrifice, and be vigilant in teaching. He says,
“And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which can build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.” (V. 32) [Compare Acts 14:23]
The second part of his example for them to follow involves his lifestyle which elders are also to provide for the flock so that their faith may be imitated (Heb. 13:7; 1 Peter 5:1-4). They were to imitate Paul in his physical labor, supporting the weak, and practicing liberality. Regarding his example of work, he first explains that he worked with his own hands for his necessities and the support of others. Paul did not expect a handout, though he could have required it. Had he done so, he would have lost the opportunity to serve as an example. Paul’s work was not a chosen career path for making money. He was truly concerned about the spiritual well-being of the Ephesian brethren. Second, he was minded to give to the poor. The elders must be equally committed to giving to others.
Again, when Paul went to Miletus, he did not call for the preacher(s) at Ephesus. We do not have any reason to believe that they had a preacher and certainly not one who was hired to work with them. Do you suppose they gave this tremendous responsibility for which they were qualified by the Spirit to a hireling because that is what the people want? While it is true that not all teachers are elders, still all elders were teachers. They must not delegate their God-given trust and work to another.