This verse reminds us that true Christian leadership is marked by humility, integrity, and service, rather than personal profit.
As the Apostle Paul bids farewell to the Ephesian elders, he states, “I have coveted no one’s silver or gold or clothes” (v.33). Ephesus was a prominent city in Asia Minor (modern-day western Turkey), known for its grand temple of Artemis and a bustling port that facilitated trade throughout the region. Paul, who lived circa AD 5 to AD 64/67, visited Ephesus on his missionary journeys and developed a close bond with the believers there (Acts 18-20). When speaking to these elders, he refers to his practice of providing for his own expenses through tentmaking, a trade he used so he would not burden the Church (1 Corinthians 9:12; 1 Thessalonians 2:9).
By declaring that he had not coveted their possessions, Paul demonstrates a heart intent on service and dependence on God rather than material gain. Coveting means longing for what belongs to someone else. In a culture that often prized wealth and social status, Paul’s words set an example that following Jesus entails contentment and a willingness to serve without expectation of financial reward. This teaching resonates with his statement in Acts 20:34-35, where he explains that working with his hands allowed him to both support himself and help others in need.
Furthermore, Paul’s lifestyle models authentic discipleship. He avoided greed and focused on building up fellow believers. In a larger spiritual sense, refusing to covet and living self-sufficiently can protect the conscience, maintain unity in the Church, and free us to share our resources. By following Paul’s example in not coveting silver, gold, or clothing, believers throughout every generation can more effectively demonstrate Christlike love and generosity.
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Acts 20:33 meaning
As the Apostle Paul bids farewell to the Ephesian elders, he states, “I have coveted no one’s silver or gold or clothes” (v.33). Ephesus was a prominent city in Asia Minor (modern-day western Turkey), known for its grand temple of Artemis and a bustling port that facilitated trade throughout the region. Paul, who lived circa AD 5 to AD 64/67, visited Ephesus on his missionary journeys and developed a close bond with the believers there (Acts 18-20). When speaking to these elders, he refers to his practice of providing for his own expenses through tentmaking, a trade he used so he would not burden the Church (1 Corinthians 9:12; 1 Thessalonians 2:9).
By declaring that he had not coveted their possessions, Paul demonstrates a heart intent on service and dependence on God rather than material gain. Coveting means longing for what belongs to someone else. In a culture that often prized wealth and social status, Paul’s words set an example that following Jesus entails contentment and a willingness to serve without expectation of financial reward. This teaching resonates with his statement in Acts 20:34-35, where he explains that working with his hands allowed him to both support himself and help others in need.
Furthermore, Paul’s lifestyle models authentic discipleship. He avoided greed and focused on building up fellow believers. In a larger spiritual sense, refusing to covet and living self-sufficiently can protect the conscience, maintain unity in the Church, and free us to share our resources. By following Paul’s example in not coveting silver, gold, or clothing, believers throughout every generation can more effectively demonstrate Christlike love and generosity.