Chronologically, it was his longest ministry. His longest “pastorate,” one might accurately say. I mean Paul’s time in the city of Ephesus.

Generally … Paul and his team (which often varied in both numbers and membership) stayed in a place only a short time. Though occasionally he did leave a Preacher behind to further strengthen the work, young Timothy coming to mind.

For example, they were in Thessalonica only “three sabbath days!” (Acts 17:2) The work there (though a Church resulted) was no doubt cut short due to strong persecution!

Yes, I think I am safe saying “short stays” … as a pattern. Paul longed to go elsewhere and preach Jesus! His own words, Romans 15:20 … “Yea, so have I strived to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named.”A spiritual pioneer!

Wow!

Yet in one place, Ephesus, Paul broke his normal modus operandi. He labored (preaching the Word of God) in the city of Ephesus longer, much longer!

Again, his own testimony: “Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of THREE YEARS I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.” Speaking to the men who had become the leaders of the Ephesian Church, Acts 20:31.

Three years!

Why that long?

One idea tomorrow, the Lord willing.

But undoubtedly this, at least … Paul found in Ephesus a healthy hunger for God’s Word, among the believers, that is.

A craving which he helped satisfy, gloriously so.

Now, if anyone asks you to name the place the Apostle Paul stayed the longest (in voluntary Ministry, serving our Lord … just say EPHESUS!

And thanks be unto God, how spiritually enriched we are to be able to have a Book of Scripture (Ephesians) that gives us a glimpse at Paul’s Preaching Material over those thirty-six months!

God is good!

— Dr. Mike Bagwell

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