Acts 20:31

31 So keep watch, having in mind that for three years without resting I was teaching every one of you, day and night, with weeping.

Acts 20:31 Meaning and Commentary

Acts 20:31

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 ( Acts 18:19 Acts 18:20 ) ( Acts 19:8 Acts 19:10 Acts 19:22 ) ( Acts 20:3 Acts 20:6 Acts 20:17 ) 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".

Acts 20:31 In-Context

29 I am conscious that after I am gone, evil wolves will come in among you, doing damage to the flock;
30 And from among yourselves will come men who will give wrong teaching, turning away the disciples after them.
31 So keep watch, having in mind that for three years without resting I was teaching every one of you, day and night, with weeping.
32 And now, I give you into the care of God and the word of his grace, which is able to make you strong and to give you your heritage among all the saints.
33 I have had no desire for any man's silver or gold or clothing.
The Bible in Basic English is in the public domain.