Acts 20:31-32 31Therefore, be alert, remembering that for three years, night and day, I did not cease admonishing each one with tears. 32And now I am entrusting you to God and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up and to give you the inheritance among all those who are sanctified.
Paul began to wind down his farewell speech by reflecting on his time in Ephesus. It was not an easy time for him. First, he taught them about the gospel night and day for three years. His ministry among them was constant. His example was steady and consistent. The tears he shed could have been from his earnestness that they accept the gospel. He did not approach preaching the gospel lightly but gave it his all. He poured himself into it to the point of emotional engagement. He mentioned his sincerity to urge the Ephesians to watch, especially for false teachers, by remembering all he taught them. In the rush of life and its cares, we quickly forget the significant teachings we have heard. Recalling emotional moments, like when one of our teachers sheds tears, can leave a lasting impact.
Verse 32 serves as a benediction and prayer for the Ephesians. Paul could not be with them anymore. At best, he could send a letter (which he did at some point) or an emissary. He himself was limited, but God is not limited by time or distance. Paul put them into God’s care. The word of his grace could refer to the gospel in all its completeness to bring change, assurance, victory, and hope. Grace (charitos) is a key theme in many of Paul’s letters. He learned firsthand through his travels the power of and need for God’s grace. This same grace would sustain the Ephesian leaders as they returned home to continue a challenging ministry in a hostile cultural context.
Paul pointed out two specific areas where God’s word of grace would make a big difference in Ephesus. One is that the gospel of grace would make them stronger. The word used for build up (oikodomēsai) has the same root as “house” (oikos) and gives the image of a strong foundation and structure that will remain steadfast in the storms that push against it. The inheritance refers to the promise of eternal life (Ephesians 1:18; 5:5; Colossians 1:12; 3:24). Those sanctified (hēgiasmenois) refer to those who believe and have committed themselves to the lordship of Jesus. God’s will is our sanctification (1 Thessalonians 4:3), and his grace is able to sanctify us (1 Thessalonians 4:23-24).