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Acts 20:28
Verse
Context
Paul’s Farewell to the Ephesians
27For I did not shrink back from declaring to you the whole will of God. 28Keep watch over yourselves and the entire flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which He purchased with His own blood.29I know that after my departure, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock.
Sermons
Art Katz
John Piper
C.H. Spurgeon
Warren Wiersbe
Les Wheeldon
Chuck Missler
William MacDonaldSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Made you overseers - Εθετο επισκοπους, Appointed you bishops; for so we translate the original word in most places where it occurs: but overseers, or inspectors, is much more proper, from επι, over, and σκεπτομαι, I look. The persons who examine into the spiritual state of the flock of God, and take care to lead them in and out, and to find them pasture, are termed episcopoi, or superintendents. The office of a bishop is from God; a true pastor only can fulfill this office: it is an office of most awful responsibility; few there are who can fill it; and, of those who occupy this high and awful place, perhaps we may say there are fewer still who discharge the duties of it. There are, however, through the good providence of God, Christian bishops, who, while they are honored by the calling, do credit to the sacred function. And the annals of our Church can boast of at least as many of this class of men, who have served their God and their generation, as of any other order, in the proportion which this order bears to others in the Church of Christ. That bishop and presbyter, or elder, were at this time of the same order, and that the word was indifferently used of both, see noticed on Act 20:17 (note). Feed the Church of God - This verse has been the subject of much controversy, particularly in reference to the term Θεου, of God, in this place; and concerning it there is great dissension among the MSS. and versions. Three readings exist in them, in reference to which critics and commentators have been much divided; viz. εκκλησιαν του Θεου, the Church of God; του Κυριου, of the Lord; Κυριου και Θεου, of the Lord and God. From the collections of Wetstein and Griesbach, it appears that but few MSS., and none of them very ancient, have the word Θεου, of God; with these only the Vulgate, and the later Syriac in the text, agree. Κυριου, of the Lord, is the reading of ACDE, several others, the Sahidic, Coptic, later Syriac in the margin, Armenian, Ethiopia, and some of the fathers. Κυριου και Θεου, of the Lord and of God, is the reading of the great majority; though the most ancient are for Κυριου, of the Lord: on this ground Griesbach has admitted this reading into the text, and put Κυριου και Θεου in the margin, as being next in authority. Mr. Wakefield, who was a professed and conscientious Unitarian, decides for του Θεου, of God, as the true reading; but, instead of translating του ιδιου αἱματος, with his own blood, he translates, by his own Son, and brings some passages from the Greek and Roman writers to show that αἱμα and sanguis are used to signify son, or near relative; and, were this the only place where purchasing with his own blood occurred, we might receive this saying; but, as the redemption of man is, throughout the New Testament, attributed to the sacrificial death of Christ, it is not likely that this very unusual meaning should apply here. At all events, we have here a proof that the Church was purchased by the blood of Christ; and, as to his Godhead, it is sufficiently established in many other places. When we grant that the greater evidence appears to be in favor of του Κυριου, feed the Church of the Lord, which he has purchased with his own blood, we must maintain that, had not this Lord been God, his blood could have been no purchase for the souls of a lost world.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Take heed . . . unto yourselves--Compare Ti1 3:2-7; Ti1 4:16; Ti1 6:11. and to all the flock--Compare Heb 13:17. Observe here how the personal is put before the pastoral care. over . . . which the Holy Ghost hath made you--Compare Joh 20:22-23; Eph 4:8, Eph 4:11-12; Rev 3:1. (Act 14:23 shows that the apostle did not mean to exclude human ordination). overseers--or, as the same word is everywhere else rendered in our version, "bishops." The English Version has hardly dealt fair in this case with the sacred text, in rendering the word "overseers," whereas it ought here, as in all other places, to have been "bishops," in order that the fact of elders and bishops having been originally and apostolically synonymous, might be apparent to the ordinary English reader, which now it is not [ALFORD]. The distinction between these offices cannot be certainly traced till the second century, nor was it established till late in that century. to feed the church of God--or, "the Church of the Lord." Which of these two readings of the text is the true one, is a question which has divided the best critics. The evidence of manuscripts preponderates in favor of "THE LORD"; some of the most ancient Versions, though not all, so read; and ATHANASIUS, the great champion of the supreme Divinity of Christ early in the fourth century, says the expression "Church of God" is unknown to the Scriptures. Which reading, then, does the internal evidence favor? As "Church of God" occurs nine times elsewhere in Paul's writings, and "Church of the Lord" nowhere, the probability, it is said, is that he used his wonted phraseology here also. But if he did, it is extremely difficult to see how so many early transcribers should have altered it into the quite unusual phrase, "Church of the Lord"; whereas, if the apostle did use this latter expression, and the historian wrote it so accordingly, it it easy to see how transcribers might, from being so accustomed to the usual phrase, write it "Church of God." On the whole, therefore, we accept the second reading as most probably the true one. But see what follows. which he hath purchased--"made His own," "acquired." with his own blood--"His own" is emphatic: "That glorified Lord who from the right hand of power in the heavens is gathering and ruling the Church, and by His Spirit, through human agency, hath set you over it, cannot be indifferent to its welfare in your hands, seeing He hath given for it His own most precious blood, thus making it His own by the dearest of all ties." The transcendent sacredness of the Church of Christ is thus made to rest on the dignity of its Lord and the consequent preciousness of that blood which He shed for it. And as the sacrificial atoning character of Christ's death is here plainly expressed, so His supreme dignity is implied as clearly by the second reading as it is expressed by the first. What a motive to pastoral fidelity is here furnished!
John Gill Bible Commentary
Therefore watch,.... Meaning both over themselves, and the flock; to prevent, if possible, false teachers entering in, and to nip the buds of heresy and schism, as soon as they appear, and to preserve themselves, and the church, from being carried away with the error of the wicked. And remember that by the space of three years; reckoning from his first coming to Ephesus, unto this time, that he now called at Miletus; see Act 18:19 and I ceased not to warn everyone night and day with tears; that is, he was constantly and continually cautioning them against false teachers, and their doctrines, in the most tender and affectionate manner; shedding tears at the thoughts of what mischief would be done, and how many souls would be ruined by them; which gives a lively idea of the apostle, and his ministry, of his affection, zeal, and diligence, very worthy of the imitation of all the preachers of the Gospel. Several copies, and all the Oriental versions, read, "everyone of you".
Tyndale Open Study Notes
20:28 Paul refers to the church as God’s people and God’s flock (cp. 1 Pet 2:25; 5:2, 4). Elsewhere the church is called the body of Christ (1 Cor 12:27; Eph 1:23; 4:12; Col 1:24); the bride of Christ (2 Cor 11:2; Rev 19:7; see Eph 5:25-32); the temple of the living God (1 Cor 3:16; 2 Cor 6:16); a chosen people, royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession (1 Pet 2:9); and God’s field, God’s building (1 Cor 3:9). • Paul expected the leaders to feed and shepherd the church over which the Holy Spirit had appointed them as leaders (see 1 Tim 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-7; 1 Pet 5:1-4; cp. Acts 6:2-4).
Acts 20:28
Paul’s Farewell to the Ephesians
27For I did not shrink back from declaring to you the whole will of God. 28Keep watch over yourselves and the entire flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which He purchased with His own blood.29I know that after my departure, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
"That They May Be one."
By Art Katz17K39:25UnityJHN 17:21ACT 20:281CO 12:121CO 14:26EPH 4:16COL 3:171PE 5:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not treating the preaching of the word of God as a mere ceremonial duty. He criticizes the idea of paying someone to fill a slot for a biblical presentation without truly understanding and honoring the divine intention behind it. The speaker calls for a revival and restoration of our understanding of God and His purpose for the church. He discusses the concept of the Trinity and how it relates to the church, highlighting the need for deference, humility, and self-deference to one another in order to experience the fullness of God's plan.
At the Price of God's Own Blood
By John Piper14K27:39Giving AllMAT 7:13ACT 20:25ACT 20:28ROM 6:11EPH 1:7HEB 12:141PE 1:18In this sermon, Pastor John Piper emphasizes the importance of holiness, zeal for good works, and commitment to world evangelization. He highlights that Jesus bled and died to purchase our holiness and to ignite a passion for good deeds that goes beyond mere avoidance of sin. Furthermore, he emphasizes that Christ's sacrifice should fill us with a fervor for spreading the gospel to the world. Piper acknowledges that we all fall short in these areas and encourages the congregation to seek God's forgiveness and redirection in their lives. He also reminds them that beneath these three aspects lies the foundational purchase of forgiveness, justification by faith, and reconciliation to God through Christ's sacrifice.
Christ -- Our Substitute
By C.H. Spurgeon5.3K41:20JHN 14:6JHN 16:13ACT 20:28EPH 4:142TI 1:132TI 2:26JUD 1:3In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of standing firm in the face of false teachings and worldly philosophies. He encourages the listeners to hold fast to the faith that was delivered to them and to resist any attempts to sway them from it. The preacher highlights the unwavering strength and purity of Jesus Christ, who faced temptations and trials but remained sinless. He concludes by reminding the audience of the importance of a solid foundation in Christ, using the analogy of a house built on a rock that withstands the storms of life.
Just the Name We Need
By Warren Wiersbe4.2K36:13MAT 1:18MRK 16:20JHN 1:18JHN 20:28ACT 20:28ROM 9:5In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of recognizing God's presence in the sorrows of life. He encourages listeners to trust in God as their shepherd and not fear the future or present. The preacher also highlights the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, where for a moment, God was not with him, but ultimately brought about salvation. The sermon concludes with the reminder that God is with believers in their service for the Lord, fulfilling a purpose in their lives.
Clothed With Power From on High
By Les Wheeldon3.5K54:16Baptism Of Holy SpiritJOS 3:17LUK 24:45ACT 20:281CO 10:13HEB 10:32JAS 1:121PE 4:12In this sermon, the speaker discusses the disciples' experience after Jesus' resurrection. He emphasizes that the disciples were still struggling to understand and were not yet filled with the Holy Spirit. The speaker highlights the disciples' doubts and discouragements, including their desire for Jesus to restore the kingdom of Israel and their fear of persecution. However, the speaker encourages the audience to persevere and walk with Jesus through tough times. The sermon concludes with a reference to Luke 24:49, where Jesus promises to send the power of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples.
Timothy, I #3 Ch. 3-4
By Chuck Missler3.2K51:21TimothyACT 20:281TI 3:161TI 4:12REV 2:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of sound doctrine and teaching in the ministry of Jesus Christ. He compares it to the instruments used in instrument flying, where cross-checking multiple instruments is crucial for survival. The speaker challenges the notion that making a decision for Christ is the climax of one's faith, stating that it is actually just the beginning. He also discusses the requirements for elders or bishops, including not being given to excessive drinking and exhibiting qualities such as patience and non-greediness. The sermon encourages believers to live out their faith through their attitudes and conduct.
The Local Church 2 - Part 1
By William MacDonald2.7K08:49MAT 18:20ACT 20:281CO 12:12EPH 5:23COL 1:18
This sermon delves into the concept of the body of Christ, emphasizing how believers are united as one body with different functions, all under the headship of Christ. It explores the importance of understanding the universal and local church, highlighting the significance of Christ as the head of the church and the need for close fellowship with Him for guidance and direction in church life.
Building the Body of Christ
By Zac Poonen2.1K1:26:51Body Of ChristMAT 6:19MAT 6:33MAT 23:8ACT 20:28ACT 20:33EPH 4:30REV 1:12In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of living a humble and sacrificial life, just as Jesus and the apostle Paul did. He highlights how Paul worked tirelessly to help others without seeking personal gain, even though he had the right to receive support. The speaker also emphasizes that Jesus taught the principle of giving and serving others, even in ordinary tasks like cutting vegetables or making furniture. He encourages believers to follow Jesus' example in their workplaces and homes, showing love and helping others. The speaker concludes by reminding listeners that true leadership in the church requires sacrificial service and a willingness to give up everything for the sake of building the body of Christ.
Bought With the Precious Blood of Christ
By Bob Jennings2.0K08:16ACT 20:28ROM 8:231CO 6:201PE 1:18REV 5:9
This sermon emphasizes the call to surrender our entire being as a living sacrifice to God, highlighting the profound motivation of being bought with a price, specifically the precious blood of Christ. It delves into the incomprehensible sacrifice of God sending His Son, Jesus, to die for us, showcasing the depth of love and redemption through Christ's payment for our sins. The message underscores the significance of understanding and embracing the personal nature of Christ's sacrifice for each individual.
The Purpose of the Cross
By David Ravenhill1.9K1:18:51MAT 24:11ACT 20:281CO 6:19EPH 5:251PE 2:12PE 2:1REV 5:9
This sermon emphasizes the deeper purpose of the cross beyond just forgiveness of sins, highlighting the need for believers to surrender their lives to God and live for His glory. It warns about the danger of false teachings that can subtly infiltrate the church and lead people astray, emphasizing the importance of discernment and staying true to the true teachings of the Bible.
Fren-08 Elijah the Prophet
By Art Katz1.9K1:17:36ElijahEXO 32:61KI 19:12MAT 6:33JHN 12:43ACT 20:28ROM 12:22CO 6:14In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of Elijah and the brook drying up during a devastating drought in the land. The speaker emphasizes the importance of living by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God. Despite the brook drying up and the pressure from his family, Elijah remains obedient to God's command to arise and go. The speaker highlights the power and authority that comes from a life immersed in the word of God.
Apostles
By Anton Bosch1.7K47:04ApostlesMAT 6:33ACT 20:281CO 4:1EPH 4:7In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of elders in the local church and their responsibility to shepherd the flock. He warns that false teachers will arise and try to lead people astray. The speaker also discusses the role of apostles in the church, highlighting that they are like fathers who bring people into the new birth and then gradually withdraw as the believers mature. He contrasts the role of a father with that of an instructor, emphasizing that while instructors may teach many things, only a father can truly parent and guide. The sermon is based on passages from Acts, Ephesians, and Corinthians.
The Need and Personality of the Holy Spirit
By Dan Augsburger1.7K1:27:46Baptism Of The Holy SpiritJHN 4:24ACT 4:33ACT 20:28PHP 3:32TH 2:131PE 1:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of reviewing objectives for the Sabbath service. The three objectives mentioned are to honor God, bring members together, and provide a training opportunity for new members. The speaker also highlights the need for the Holy Spirit's guidance and power in carrying out God's work. The sermon emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit in every discourse and the promised outpouring of God's life-giving spirit as the hope of God's people. The speaker passionately calls for a new demonstration of God's reality, presence, and power in the church, stating that the church will be ablaze for God when individuals are ablaze for Him.
Ancestors
By Jim Cymbala1.7K37:30Ancestors2SA 11:1MAT 1:1ACT 20:28HEB 10:19In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the need for guidance and nourishment in our spiritual lives. He compares humans to sheep, highlighting their dependence on a shepherd to lead them to good pastures. Jesus is presented as the ultimate shepherd who can provide both physical and spiritual sustenance. The speaker invites the audience to accept Jesus as their shepherd and put their trust in him. He concludes by encouraging those who have lost faith to take the first step towards a renewed relationship with Jesus.
Through the Bible - Acts - Part 2
By Zac Poonen1.6K54:08ACT 11:27ACT 16:17ACT 17:10ACT 18:9ACT 20:18ACT 20:21ACT 20:28In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of serving God with humility and setting a good example through one's life, not just through preaching. He warns that when strict gatekeepers like Paul are absent, wolves can enter the church and cause harm. The speaker also highlights the need to serve one's generation and fulfill God's will before passing on. The sermon concludes with a discussion on the importance of fasting and worshiping God, as well as the guidance of a God-given leader in one's spiritual journey.
Purchased With Blood
By William MacDonald1.6K40:46Blood Of ChristMAT 27:33ACT 20:28ROM 5:8GAL 2:20EPH 2:8HEB 1:1HEB 9:22In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of four key facts that lead to a full commitment to Jesus Christ. The first fact is understanding who Jesus is - the center and hub of existence, the source of satisfaction, and the embodiment of reality. The second fact is recognizing what Jesus did on the cross - a unique and overwhelming event where man murdered his Creator. The third fact is understanding who we are - sinners at war with God, in need of rescue from sin. The final fact is acknowledging the blessings that flow to us from Calvary, where Jesus purchased the church with his own blood. The speaker encourages listeners to bravely and willingly face these facts, which may lead to revolutionary changes in their lives and a deep commitment to Christ.
Revelation 7
By Chuck Smith1.6K1:06:02PSA 56:8ISA 25:8ISA 30:19JHN 4:13ACT 20:28HEB 9:14REV 5:9REV 21:3REV 21:6
This sermon delves into Revelation chapter 7, exploring the judgment of God unfolding through the seals, the significance of the 144,000 sealed from the tribes of Israel, and the worship in heaven. It emphasizes the importance of surrendering to God, the cleansing power of the blood of the Lamb, and the promise of God wiping away all tears in the future.
The Wonder of Calvary
By William MacDonald1.5K48:43CalvaryMAT 6:33ACT 20:28In this sermon, the speaker discusses four great truths that have impacted his soul. The first truth is a new appreciation of who the Lord Jesus really is. The second truth is a consideration of what Jesus did on the cross of Calvary. The third truth is the people for whom Jesus did it, which includes the whole human race. And the fourth truth is the marvelous blessings that have flowed as a result of Jesus' work on the cross. The speaker emphasizes the transient and frail nature of human life, as well as the sinful state of humanity. However, despite our flaws, Jesus loved us enough to die for us. The speaker encourages the audience to consider Jesus, His sacrifice, and the incredible dimensions of our redemption.
Chapter 2 - How to Obtain Fulness of Power in Christian Life & Service
By R.A. Torrey1.5K19:54Audio BooksEXO 12:13ISA 53:6MAT 6:33ACT 20:281CO 5:7HEB 9:26In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power of the blood of Jesus in atoning for sin and justifying believers before God. The speaker highlights how Martin Luther spent many years seeking peace through self-efforts but found no relief until he understood the power of the blood. The blood of Jesus not only relieves our guilt but also frees us from the burden of trying to earn God's favor through our own works. The sermon emphasizes the importance of starting with the blood of Jesus as the foundation for our faith and understanding its power before seeking the deeper truths of the Holy Spirit.
Biblical Eldership - Lesson 1
By John Piper1.4K1:13:20MAT 6:33ACT 20:281CO 10:31In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of ministry that brings about salvation, healing marriages, and raising children in the Lord. He refers to 2 Thessalonians 3:14, where Paul instructs not to associate with those who do not obey the teachings of the letter. The speaker also mentions Acts 20:28, where Paul urges the elders to take heed and care for the church, which was obtained by God through the blood of His own Son. The purpose of the church is to demonstrate the authority and power of Christ, as stated in Matthew 16:18.
Leadership Questions and Answers
By Stephen Kaung1.4K1:36:45LeadershipMAT 20:26ACT 20:28ROM 12:61CO 12:4EPH 4:111TI 3:151TI 5:22In this sermon, the speaker discusses the issue of workers in the church and the importance of equipping the saints. He shares an example of two brothers who were relied upon too heavily by a group of believers, causing problems. The speaker emphasizes that the work of a worker is to equip the saints, and once they are equipped, they should be raised up to bear responsibility. He also addresses the idea that one person cannot possess all the different functions and gifts in the church, and that it is not normal for a worker to be expected to fulfill all roles.
Horton Haven Labor Day Retreat-08 Those for Whom Christ Died
By William MacDonald1.3K38:45Christ's DeathPSA 8:3MAT 10:33ACT 20:28In this sermon, the preacher discusses the significance of Jesus' sacrifice on Calvary. He emphasizes the immense value of our redemption and the staggering reality that Jesus died for all of humanity. The preacher highlights the frailty and perishability of human life, comparing it to various fleeting and temporary things. Despite our insignificance, God chose to visit and redeem us through the shedding of Jesus' blood on the cross. The sermon concludes with the reminder that Jesus rose from the dead and offers eternal life to all who trust in Him as Savior.
Resting and Wrestling for the Cause of Christ—together
By John Piper1.3K43:30PSA 133:1MAT 11:28LUK 13:24JHN 12:25ACT 20:28ROM 15:30EPH 4:12HEB 10:24
This sermon emphasizes the importance of healthy biblical doctrine and loving relationships within the body of Christ. It highlights the significance of small groups in fostering these relationships and the need for believers to strive together in prayer, wrestle against spiritual battles, and find rest and refreshment in community. The message encourages participation in small groups for mutual encouragement, sharing burdens, and multiplying joys in the journey of faith.
(February 1987) 03 - Out of Control
By Ray Lowe1.2K1:15:43ControlACT 20:24ACT 20:281CO 10:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having the right attitude towards God and towards fellow human beings. He encourages the congregation to love God wholeheartedly and to cast off any excess baggage in their lives. The preacher believes that God has opened the eyes of a man named Jim and started a revolution in his mind. He urges the church to be ready to move with the clouds and to take heed of themselves, allowing God to examine their hearts and actions. The sermon also discusses the concept of being controlled by God's spirit rather than by worldly influences, and the importance of finding rest in God's kingdom. The preacher highlights the need for both justification through the blood of Jesus and dominion over sin through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Hosanna (Compilation)
By Compilations1.2K11:33CompilationNEH 1:3LUK 2:49LUK 19:37JHN 2:16ACT 20:28ACT 20:31In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of spiritual desperation and the need for believers to be vigilant in protecting the church from false teachings. He warns that after his departure, there will be vicious wolves who will try to lead the disciples astray. The speaker also highlights the significance of the cross and the thirst for God, stating that desperation is a hunger that consumes and dominates. He concludes by referencing the story of Nehemiah, who wept and fasted in prayer for the broken walls of Jerusalem, emphasizing the need for repentance and seeking God's forgiveness.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Made you overseers - Εθετο επισκοπους, Appointed you bishops; for so we translate the original word in most places where it occurs: but overseers, or inspectors, is much more proper, from επι, over, and σκεπτομαι, I look. The persons who examine into the spiritual state of the flock of God, and take care to lead them in and out, and to find them pasture, are termed episcopoi, or superintendents. The office of a bishop is from God; a true pastor only can fulfill this office: it is an office of most awful responsibility; few there are who can fill it; and, of those who occupy this high and awful place, perhaps we may say there are fewer still who discharge the duties of it. There are, however, through the good providence of God, Christian bishops, who, while they are honored by the calling, do credit to the sacred function. And the annals of our Church can boast of at least as many of this class of men, who have served their God and their generation, as of any other order, in the proportion which this order bears to others in the Church of Christ. That bishop and presbyter, or elder, were at this time of the same order, and that the word was indifferently used of both, see noticed on Act 20:17 (note). Feed the Church of God - This verse has been the subject of much controversy, particularly in reference to the term Θεου, of God, in this place; and concerning it there is great dissension among the MSS. and versions. Three readings exist in them, in reference to which critics and commentators have been much divided; viz. εκκλησιαν του Θεου, the Church of God; του Κυριου, of the Lord; Κυριου και Θεου, of the Lord and God. From the collections of Wetstein and Griesbach, it appears that but few MSS., and none of them very ancient, have the word Θεου, of God; with these only the Vulgate, and the later Syriac in the text, agree. Κυριου, of the Lord, is the reading of ACDE, several others, the Sahidic, Coptic, later Syriac in the margin, Armenian, Ethiopia, and some of the fathers. Κυριου και Θεου, of the Lord and of God, is the reading of the great majority; though the most ancient are for Κυριου, of the Lord: on this ground Griesbach has admitted this reading into the text, and put Κυριου και Θεου in the margin, as being next in authority. Mr. Wakefield, who was a professed and conscientious Unitarian, decides for του Θεου, of God, as the true reading; but, instead of translating του ιδιου αἱματος, with his own blood, he translates, by his own Son, and brings some passages from the Greek and Roman writers to show that αἱμα and sanguis are used to signify son, or near relative; and, were this the only place where purchasing with his own blood occurred, we might receive this saying; but, as the redemption of man is, throughout the New Testament, attributed to the sacrificial death of Christ, it is not likely that this very unusual meaning should apply here. At all events, we have here a proof that the Church was purchased by the blood of Christ; and, as to his Godhead, it is sufficiently established in many other places. When we grant that the greater evidence appears to be in favor of του Κυριου, feed the Church of the Lord, which he has purchased with his own blood, we must maintain that, had not this Lord been God, his blood could have been no purchase for the souls of a lost world.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Take heed . . . unto yourselves--Compare Ti1 3:2-7; Ti1 4:16; Ti1 6:11. and to all the flock--Compare Heb 13:17. Observe here how the personal is put before the pastoral care. over . . . which the Holy Ghost hath made you--Compare Joh 20:22-23; Eph 4:8, Eph 4:11-12; Rev 3:1. (Act 14:23 shows that the apostle did not mean to exclude human ordination). overseers--or, as the same word is everywhere else rendered in our version, "bishops." The English Version has hardly dealt fair in this case with the sacred text, in rendering the word "overseers," whereas it ought here, as in all other places, to have been "bishops," in order that the fact of elders and bishops having been originally and apostolically synonymous, might be apparent to the ordinary English reader, which now it is not [ALFORD]. The distinction between these offices cannot be certainly traced till the second century, nor was it established till late in that century. to feed the church of God--or, "the Church of the Lord." Which of these two readings of the text is the true one, is a question which has divided the best critics. The evidence of manuscripts preponderates in favor of "THE LORD"; some of the most ancient Versions, though not all, so read; and ATHANASIUS, the great champion of the supreme Divinity of Christ early in the fourth century, says the expression "Church of God" is unknown to the Scriptures. Which reading, then, does the internal evidence favor? As "Church of God" occurs nine times elsewhere in Paul's writings, and "Church of the Lord" nowhere, the probability, it is said, is that he used his wonted phraseology here also. But if he did, it is extremely difficult to see how so many early transcribers should have altered it into the quite unusual phrase, "Church of the Lord"; whereas, if the apostle did use this latter expression, and the historian wrote it so accordingly, it it easy to see how transcribers might, from being so accustomed to the usual phrase, write it "Church of God." On the whole, therefore, we accept the second reading as most probably the true one. But see what follows. which he hath purchased--"made His own," "acquired." with his own blood--"His own" is emphatic: "That glorified Lord who from the right hand of power in the heavens is gathering and ruling the Church, and by His Spirit, through human agency, hath set you over it, cannot be indifferent to its welfare in your hands, seeing He hath given for it His own most precious blood, thus making it His own by the dearest of all ties." The transcendent sacredness of the Church of Christ is thus made to rest on the dignity of its Lord and the consequent preciousness of that blood which He shed for it. And as the sacrificial atoning character of Christ's death is here plainly expressed, so His supreme dignity is implied as clearly by the second reading as it is expressed by the first. What a motive to pastoral fidelity is here furnished!
John Gill Bible Commentary
Therefore watch,.... Meaning both over themselves, and the flock; to prevent, if possible, false teachers entering in, and to nip the buds of heresy and schism, as soon as they appear, and to preserve themselves, and the church, from being carried away with the error of the wicked. And remember that by the space of three years; reckoning from his first coming to Ephesus, unto this time, that he now called at Miletus; see Act 18:19 and I ceased not to warn everyone night and day with tears; that is, he was constantly and continually cautioning them against false teachers, and their doctrines, in the most tender and affectionate manner; shedding tears at the thoughts of what mischief would be done, and how many souls would be ruined by them; which gives a lively idea of the apostle, and his ministry, of his affection, zeal, and diligence, very worthy of the imitation of all the preachers of the Gospel. Several copies, and all the Oriental versions, read, "everyone of you".
Tyndale Open Study Notes
20:28 Paul refers to the church as God’s people and God’s flock (cp. 1 Pet 2:25; 5:2, 4). Elsewhere the church is called the body of Christ (1 Cor 12:27; Eph 1:23; 4:12; Col 1:24); the bride of Christ (2 Cor 11:2; Rev 19:7; see Eph 5:25-32); the temple of the living God (1 Cor 3:16; 2 Cor 6:16); a chosen people, royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession (1 Pet 2:9); and God’s field, God’s building (1 Cor 3:9). • Paul expected the leaders to feed and shepherd the church over which the Holy Spirit had appointed them as leaders (see 1 Tim 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-7; 1 Pet 5:1-4; cp. Acts 6:2-4).