Acts 20:35
I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.
Acts 20:35 · King James Version
Meaning
Within this verse, the speaker is providing guidance on how to live a fulfilling and purposeful life. By highlighting the importance of supporting the weak and vulnerable, the verse emphasizes the Christian duty to show compassion and kindness towards those in need. The reference to the words of Jesus further reinforces this message, reminding believers of the teachings of Christ. The phrase "It is more blessed to give than to receive" encapsulates the idea that true happiness and fulfillment come from selflessly giving to others, rather than solely focusing on one's own desires and needs. This verse serves as a reminder to prioritize acts of generosity and service, as they are ultimately more rewarding and spiritually enriching. By following this guidance, individuals can cultivate a sense of community, empathy, and connection with others, thereby embodying the values of Christianity.
Theological Overview
Within this verse, Paul is instructing the believers in Ephesus on the importance of supporting the weak and disadvantaged. The word "support" in the original Greek implies upholding and sustaining those who are in need, rather than just providing temporary help. This act of caring for the vulnerable is not only a duty but also a way to imitate Christ, as Paul reminds them of the words of Jesus, specifically, "It is more blessed to give than to receive." This teaching from Jesus emphasizes the value of selflessness and generosity, revealing that true joy and fulfillment come from serving others rather than seeking to receive for oneself. Therefore, by following these instructions to support the weak and remember Jesus' words, believers can embody the love and compassion of Christ in their daily lives.
Acts 20:35 in other translations
American Standard Version
In all things I gave you an example, that so laboring ye ought to help the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that he himself said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.
World English Bible
In all things I gave you an example, that so laboring you ought to help the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”
Douay-Rheims
I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring you ought to support the weak and to remember the word of the Lord Jesus, how he said: It is a more blessed thing to give, rather than to receive.
Geneva Bible (1599)
I haue shewed you all things, howe that so labouring, ye ought to support the weake, and to remember the wordes of the Lord Iesus, howe that hee saide, It is a blessed thing to giue, rather then to receiue.