Acts 18:20
What does Acts 18:20 mean?
A plain-English look at Acts 18:20 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Acts 18:20 means
The Ephesian Jews ask Paul to stay longer, indicating initial receptivity. Yet he declines. His refusal is not rejection but obedience to a prior itinerary and the Lord’s leading. Opportunities, even promising ones, must be weighed by calling and timing. The verse teaches that fruitful ministry includes saying no when God directs elsewhere. Paul does not force prolonged presence but trusts that the word sown will grow and that others—like Priscilla and Aquila—can water. Desire for more teaching is good; depending on one teacher is not necessary. The mission moves on, leaving behind both interest and capable workers.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000And when they asked him to abide a longer time, he consented not;
KJV
King James Version · 1611When they desired him to tarry longer time with them, he consented not;
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901And when they asked him to abide a longer time, he consented not;
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949And being requested by them to be there for a longer time, he said, No;
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862and they having requested <FI>him<Fi> to remain a longer time with them, he did not consent,
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752And when they desired him that he would tarry a longer time, he consented not:
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890And when they asked him that he would remain for a longer time [with them] he did not accede,
Context
After a short but effective synagogue exchange, the door seems open wider. Verse 20 heightens anticipation for a sustained Ephesian ministry, yet the next verse shows Paul’s departure with a conditional promise to return. This moment sets up the later, extensive Ephesian work (in a future chapter) and keeps the narrative’s immediate focus on concluding the current journey and reporting to the broader church.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Acts 21:13
Then Paul answered, What do ye, weeping and breaking my heart? for I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.
- Acts 20:16
For Paul had determined to sail past Ephesus, that he might not have to spend time in Asia; for he was hastening, if it were possible for him, to be at Jerusalem the day of Pentecost.
- 1 Corinthians 16:12
But as touching Apollos the brother, I besought him much to come unto you with the brethren: and it was not at all his will to come now; but he will come when he shall have opportunity.
- Mark 1:37
and they found him, and say unto him, All are seeking thee.
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