16. Paul had decided to sail past Ephesus. He didn't want to spend time in Asia Minor. He was in a hurry to get to Jerusalem. If he could, he wanted to be there by the day of Pentecost.
17. From Miletus, Paul sent for the elders of the church at Ephesus.
18. When they arrived, he spoke to them. "You know how I lived the whole time I was with you," he said. "From the first day I came into Asia Minor,
19. I was free of pride. I served the Lord with tears. I served him even though I was greatly tested by the evil plans of the Jews.
20. You know I haven't let anyone keep me from preaching anything that would be helpful to you. I have taught you in public and from house to house.
21. I have told both Jews and Greeks that they must turn away from their sins to God. They must have faith in our Lord Jesus.
22. "Now I am going to Jerusalem. The Holy Spirit compels me. I don't know what will happen to me there.
23. I only know that in every city the Spirit warns me. He tells me that I will face prison and suffering.