Acts 20:35
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Acts 20:35
35 I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.
Chapter Context
Acts 20 is a historical narrative chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, fellowship, mercy. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Chronicles Christianity's spread across the Roman Empire despite official and unofficial opposition.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-38: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Acts and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Acts 20:35
35 I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.
Analysis
I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive—Paul cites an unrecorded saying of Jesus (not in the Gospels) to model generous labor. So labouring refers to Paul's tentmaking (v.34), supporting himself and companions rather than burdening churches. Ye ought to support the weak makes labor's purpose not self-enrichment but enabling generosity to needy believers. More blessed to give than to receive inverts natural selfishness—joy comes from giving, not getting. This Jesus-saying became foundational for Christian generosity and work ethic.
Historical Context
Concludes Paul's defense of his ministry methods to Ephesian elders. He worked as tentmaker (Acts 18:3) to fund gospel ministry and model self-sacrifice. This saying of Jesus was preserved in oral tradition before being recorded by Luke here. Paul uses similar language in 1 Thessalonians 5:14 ('support the weak') and his own generosity theology in 2 Corinthians 8-9.
Reflection
- How does your work enable generosity toward others versus merely sustaining personal lifestyle?
- In what areas of life have you experienced the truth that giving brings more blessing than receiving?
Word Studies
- Lord: Κύριος (Kurios) G2962 - Lord, Master
Cross-References
- References Jesus: 2 Corinthians 8:9
- References Lord: Proverbs 19:17
- Parallel theme: Acts 20:27, Isaiah 32:8, 35:3, Matthew 10:8, Romans 15:1, 1 Thessalonians 5:14