16. Paul had decided to sail on past Ephesus, because he did not want to spend too much time in Asia. He was in a hurry and wanted to be in Jerusalem in time for Pentecost.
17. From Miletus, Paul sent a message for the church leaders at Ephesus to come and meet with him.
18. When they got there, he said:You know everything I did during the time I was with you when I first came to Asia.
19. Some of the Jews plotted against me and caused me a lot of sorrow and trouble. But I served the Lord and was humble.
20. When I preached in public or taught in your homes, I didn't hold back from telling anything that would help you.
21. I told Jews and Gentiles to turn to God and have faith in our Lord Jesus.
22. I don't know what will happen to me in Jerusalem, but I must obey God's Spirit and go there.
23. In every city I visit, I am told by the Holy Spirit that I will be put in jail and will be in trouble in Jerusalem.
24. But I don't care what happens to me, as long as I finish the work that the Lord Jesus gave me to do. And that work is to tell the good news about God's great kindness.
25. I have gone from place to place, preaching to you about God's kingdom, but now I know that none of you will ever see me again.