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For Paul had decided to sail past Ephesus, so that he would not have to spend time in Asia; for he was hurrying to be at Jerusalem, if possible, on the Day of Pentecost.
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From Miletus he sent to Ephesus and called for the elders of the church.
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And when they had come to him, he said to them: "You know, from the first day that I came to Asia, in what manner I always lived among you,
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serving the Lord with all humility, with many tears and trials which happened to me by the plotting of the Jews;
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how I kept back nothing that was helpful, but proclaimed it to you, and taught you publicly and from house to house,
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testifying to Jews, and also to Greeks, repentance toward God and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.
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And see, now I go bound in the spirit to Jerusalem, not knowing the things that will happen to me there,
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except that the Holy Spirit testifies in every city, saying that chains and tribulations await me.
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But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.
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And indeed, now I know that you all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, will see my face no more.
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Therefore I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all men.