A Journey Through Luke & Actsنموونە

After the uproar in Ephesus was over, Paul leaves to make his way back to Jerusalem in time for the annual Pentecost festival. On his way, he travels to many cities to preach the good news and encourage Jesus’ followers. In this, we see a parallel between Paul and Jesus’ ministry. Jesus also set off for Jerusalem in time for an annual Jewish festival (in his case, Passover) and preached the good news of his Kingdom along the way. And just as Jesus knew the cross was waiting for him, Paul also knows that hardship and affliction await him in the capital city. So with this knowledge, he plans a farewell gathering. He invites the pastors from Ephesus to meet him in a nearby city, where he warns them that things will get tougher while he’s gone. He tells them they should be careful to generously help the needy and diligently protect and nurture their churches. Everyone is crushed to have to say goodbye to Paul. They weep, hug and kiss him, and refuse to leave his side until he’s aboard his departing ship.