24
But my life means nothing to me. I only want to finish the race. I want to complete the work the Lord Jesus has given me. He wants me to give witness to others about the good news of God's grace.
25
"I have spent time with you preaching about the kingdom. I know that none of you will ever see me again.
26
So I tell you today that I am not guilty if anyone has not believed.
27
I haven't let anyone keep me from telling you everything God wants you to do.
28
"Keep watch over yourselves. Keep watch over all the believers. The Holy Spirit has made you leaders over them. Be shepherds of God's church. He bought it with his own blood.
29
"I know that after I leave, wild wolves will come in among you. They won't spare any of the sheep.
30
Even men from your own people will rise up and twist the truth. They want to get the believers to follow them.
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So be on your guard! Remember that for three years I never stopped warning you. Night and day I warned each of you with tears.
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"Now I commit you to God's care. I commit you to the word of his grace. It can build you up. Then you will share in what God plans to give all his people.
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I haven't longed for anyone's silver or gold or clothing.
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You yourselves know that I have used my own hands to meet my needs. I have also met the needs of my companions.