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Acts 20:16

Made Simple — Modern English Translation

Translated by Verse Made Simple Editorial
KJV ORIGINAL
For Paul had determined to sail by Ephesus, because he would not spend the time in Asia: for he hasted, if it were possible for him, to be at Jerusalem the day of Pentecost.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE

Paul had already decided to skip stopping in Ephesus because he didn't want to get tied up spending time in that whole region. He was rushing to try to make it to Jerusalem by Pentecost if he possibly could.

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

Sometimes you have to skip the good stuff to make it to the most important thing.

📚 Historical Context

During Paul's third missionary journey, he was wrapping up his ministry in Asia Minor and heading toward Jerusalem with an offering from Gentile churches to support the believers there. He decided to bypass Ephesus to save time, as he was eager to arrive in Jerusalem for the Pentecost festival, a significant Jewish observance that also held deep meaning for early Christians. This choice reflects the pressures of travel and mission in the ancient world, where festivals like Pentecost drew large crowds and symbolized spiritual renewal.

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