Albert Barnes Commentary Acts 20:38

"sorrowing most of all for the word which he had spoken, that they should behold his face no more. And they brought him on his way unto the ship." — Acts 20:38 (ASV)

Sorrowing most of all, etc. This was a most tender and affectionate parting scene. It can be more easily imagined than described. We may learn from it:

1. That the parting of ministers and people is a most solemn event, and should be one of much tenderness and affection.

2. The effect of true religion is to make the heart more tender, to make friendship more affectionate and sacred, and to unite more closely the bonds of love.

3. Ministers of the gospel should be prepared to leave their people with the same consciousness of fidelity, and the same kindness and love, which Paul demonstrated. They should live such lives as to be able to look back upon their whole ministry as pure and unselfish, and as having been employed in guarding the flock and in making known to them the whole counsel of God.

   So parting, they may part in peace. And so living and acting, they will be prepared to give up their account with joy, and not with grief.

   May God grant to every minister the spirit which Paul demonstrated at Ephesus, and enable each one, when called to leave his people by death or otherwise, to do it with the same consciousness of fidelity which Paul demonstrated, when he left his people to see their face no more!