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◄ Acts 20:26►

New International Version
Therefore, I declare to you today that I am innocent of the blood of any of you.

New Living Translation
I declare today that I have been faithful. If anyone suffers eternal death, it’s not my fault,

English Standard Version
Therefore I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all,

Berean Standard Bible
Therefore I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all men.

Berean Literal Bible
Therefore I testify to you in this day that Iam innocent of the blood of all.

King James Bible
Wherefore I take you to record this day, that Iam pure from the blood of allmen.

New King James Version
Therefore I testify to you this day that Iam innocent of the blood of allmen.

New American Standard Bible
Therefore, I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all people.

NASB 1995
“Therefore, I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all men.

NASB 1977
“Therefore I testify to you this day, that I am innocent of the blood of all men.

Legacy Standard Bible
Therefore, I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all.

Amplified Bible
For that reason I testify to you on this [our parting] day that I am innocent of the blood of all people.

Christian Standard Bible
Therefore I declare to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all of you,

Holman Christian Standard Bible
Therefore I testify to you this day that I am innocent of everyone’s blood,

American Standard Version
Wherefore I testify unto you this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men.

Contemporary English Version
I tell you today I am no longer responsible for any of you!

English Revised Version
Wherefore I testify unto you this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
Therefore, I declare to you today that I am not responsible for the [spiritual] death of any of you.

Good News Translation
So I solemnly declare to you this very day: if any of you should be lost, I am not responsible.

International Standard Version
I therefore declare to you today that I'm not responsible for the blood of any of you,

NET Bible
Therefore I declare to you today that I am innocent of the blood of you all.

New Heart English Bible
Therefore I testify to you today that I am innocent of everyone's blood,

Webster's Bible Translation
Wherefore I call you to witness this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men.

Weymouth New Testament
Therefore I protest to you to-day that I am not responsible for the ruin of any one of you.

Majority Text Translations

Majority Standard Bible
Therefore I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all men.

World English Bible
Therefore I testify to you today that I am clean from the blood of all men,

Literal Translations

Literal Standard Version
for this reason I take you to witness this day, that I [am] clear from the blood of all,

Berean Literal Bible
Therefore I testify to you in this day that Iam innocent of the blood of all.

Young's Literal Translation
wherefore I take you to witness this day, that I am clear from the blood of all,

Smith's Literal Translation
Wherefore I testify to you in this day, that I pure from the blood of all.

Catholic Translations

Douay-Rheims Bible
Wherefore I take you to witness this day, that I am clear from the blood of all men;

Catholic Public Domain Version
For this reason, I call you as witnesses on this very day: that I am clean from the blood of all.

New American Bible
And so I solemnly declare to you this day that I am not responsible for the blood of any of you,

New Revised Standard Version
Therefore I declare to you this day that I am not responsible for the blood of any of you,

Translations from Aramaic

Lamsa Bible
Therefore, I testify to you this very day that I am innocent of the blood of all.

Aramaic Bible in Plain English
“And because of this, I testify to you today that I am pure from the blood of all of you.”

NT Translations

Anderson New Testament
For this reason I solemnly affirm to you this day, that I am clean from the blood of all men.

Godbey New Testament
Therefore I witness to you this clay, that I am pure from the blood of all men;

Haweis New Testament
Wherefore I appeal to you this day as witnesses that I am pure from the blood of all men.

Mace New Testament
I therefore declare to you at this present time, that I am not responsible for the ruin of any:

Weymouth New Testament
Therefore I protest to you to-day that I am not responsible for the ruin of any one of you.

Worrell New Testament
Wherefore, I testify to you this day, that I am clean from the blood of allmen;

Worsley New Testament
Wherefore I call you to witness this day, that I am clear from the blood of allmen.

Additional Translations ...

Audio Bible

Context

Paul's Farewell to the Ephesians
…25Now I know that none of you among whom I have preached the kingdom will see my face again.26Therefore I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all men.27For I did not shrink back from declaring to you the whole will of God.…

Berean Standard Bible ·Download

Cross References

Ezekiel 33:8-9
If I say to the wicked, ‘O wicked man, you will surely die,’ but you do not speak out to dissuade him from his way, then that wicked man will die in his iniquity, yet I will hold you accountable for his blood. / But if you warn the wicked man to turn from his way, and he does not turn from it, he will die in his iniquity, but you will have saved your life.

Ezekiel 3:18-19
If I say to the wicked man, ‘You will surely die,’ but you do not warn him or speak out to warn him from his wicked way to save his life, that wicked man will die in his iniquity, and I will hold you responsible for his blood. / But if you warn a wicked man and he does not turn from his wickedness and his wicked way, he will die in his iniquity, but you will have saved yourself.

Acts 18:6
But when they opposed and insulted him, he shook out his garments and told them, “Your blood be on your own heads! I am innocent of it. From now on I will go to the Gentiles.”

2 Corinthians 7:2
Make room for us in your hearts. We have wronged no one, we have corrupted no one, we have exploited no one.

2 Samuel 3:28
Afterward, David heard about this and said, “I and my kingdom are forever guiltless before the LORD concerning the blood of Abner son of Ner.

Jeremiah 42:21
For I have told you today, but you have not obeyed the voice of the LORD your God in all He has sent me to tell you.

Matthew 27:24
When Pilate saw that he was accomplishing nothing, but that instead a riot was breaking out, he took water and washed his hands before the crowd. “I am innocent of this man’s blood,” he said. “You bear the responsibility.”

1 Samuel 12:3-5
Here I am. Bear witness against me before the LORD and before His anointed: Whose ox or donkey have I taken? Whom have I cheated or oppressed? From whose hand have I accepted a bribe and closed my eyes? Tell me, and I will restore it to you.” / “You have not cheated us or oppressed us,” they replied, “nor have you taken anything from the hand of man.” / Samuel said to them, “The LORD is a witness against you, and His anointed is a witness today, that you have not found anything in my hand.” “He is a witness,” they replied.

1 Thessalonians 2:10
You are witnesses, and so is God, of how holy, righteous, and blameless our conduct was among you who believed.

Philippians 1:16
The latter do so in love, knowing that I am appointed for the defense of the gospel.

1 Corinthians 4:4
My conscience is clear, but that does not vindicate me. It is the Lord who judges me.

2 Corinthians 1:12
For this is our boast: Our conscience testifies that we have conducted ourselves in the world, and especially in relation to you, in the holiness and sincerity that are from God—not in worldly wisdom, but in the grace of God.

1 Timothy 5:22
Do not be too quick in the laying on of hands and thereby share in the sins of others. Keep yourself pure.

Deuteronomy 21:6-7
Then all the elders of the city nearest the victim shall wash their hands by the stream over the heifer whose neck has been broken, / and they shall declare, “Our hands did not shed this blood, nor did our eyes see it.

Isaiah 1:15
When you spread out your hands in prayer, I will hide My eyes from you; even though you multiply your prayers, I will not listen. Your hands are covered with blood.

Treasury of Scripture

Why I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men.

I take.

Job 16:19
Also now, behold, my witnessis in heaven, and my recordis on high.

John 12:17
The people therefore that was with him when he called Lazarus out of his grave, and raised him from the dead, bare record.

John 19:35
And he that sawit bare record, and his record is true: and he knoweth that he saith true, that ye might believe.

that.

Acts 18:6
And when they opposed themselves, and blasphemed, he shookhis raiment, and said unto them, Your bloodbe upon your own heads; Iam clean: from henceforth I will go unto the Gentiles.

2 Samuel 3:28
And afterward when David heardit, he said, I and my kingdomare guiltless before the LORD for ever from the blood of Abner the son of Ner:

Ezekiel 3:18-21
When I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; and thou givest him not warning, nor speakest to warn the wicked from his wicked way, to save his life; the same wickedman shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand…

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Acts 20

1.Paul goes to Macedonia, and thence to Troas.
7.He celebrates the Lord's supper, and preaches.
9.Eutychus having fallen down dead is raised to life.
13.Paul continues his travels;
17.and at Miletum he calls the elders together, tells them what shall befall to himself,
28.commits God's flock to them,
29.warns them of false teachers,
32.commends them to God,
36.prays with them, and departs.

Study Bible

Book ◦ Chapter

Therefore I testify to you this day
Paul is addressing the Ephesian elders in Miletus, emphasizing the solemnity and urgency of his message. The phrase "I testify" indicates a formal declaration, akin to a legal testimony, underscoring the seriousness of his words. The context is Paul's farewell speech, as he is aware that he will not see them again. This moment is pivotal, as Paul is summarizing his ministry and preparing the leaders for his absence. The use of "this day" highlights the immediacy and importance of the message, marking it as a significant moment in the early church's history.

that I am innocent of the blood of all men
Paul asserts his innocence regarding the spiritual well-being of those he ministered to. This echoes the watchman imagery fromEzekiel 33:6, where the watchman is responsible for warning the people. Paul has faithfully proclaimed the gospel, ensuring that he has fulfilled his duty to warn and teach. The phrase "innocent of the blood" suggests a deep responsibility for the spiritual lives of others, a theme that resonates with the accountability of leaders in the church. This declaration also reflects Paul's clear conscience, as he has not withheld any part of God's counsel, aligning with his earlier statement inActs 20:20-21 about teaching publicly and from house to house.

Persons / Places / Events

1.Paul the Apostle
The speaker in this verse, Paul is addressing the elders of the church in Ephesus. He is on his way to Jerusalem and is giving a farewell speech, aware that he may not see them again.

2.Ephesus
A significant city in the Roman province of Asia, known for its large population and the Temple of Artemis. It was a major center for early Christianity and the location of the church to which Paul is speaking.

3.Elders of Ephesus
The leaders of the Ephesian church, responsible for shepherding the congregation. Paul is imparting final instructions and warnings to them.

4.Paul's Ministry
The context of this verse is Paul's reflection on his ministry, emphasizing his dedication to preaching the gospel and his clear conscience regarding his responsibilities.

5.Farewell Speech
This event is part of Paul's farewell address to the Ephesian elders, where he summarizes his ministry and warns them of future challenges.

Teaching Points

The Responsibility of Proclaiming the Gospel
As believers, we are called to share the gospel with others. Paul’s example shows the importance of fulfilling this duty with diligence and integrity.

Clear Conscience in Ministry
Paul’s statement of being "innocent of the blood of all men" challenges us to examine our own lives and ministries. Are we faithfully discharging our responsibilities?

The Role of a Spiritual Watchman
Like the watchman in Ezekiel, we have a responsibility to warn others of spiritual danger. This involves speaking truth in love and not shying away from difficult conversations.

Perseverance in the Face of Opposition
Paul faced much opposition, yet he remained steadfast. We are encouraged to persevere in our faith and witness, even when faced with challenges.

Legacy of Faithfulness
Paul’s farewell speech is a testament to a life lived in faithful service to God. We should strive to leave a legacy of faithfulness for those who come after us.

Bible Study Questions and Answers

1.What is the meaning of Acts 20:26?

2.How does Acts 20:26 inspire us to declare "innocent of the blood of all"?

3.What does being "innocent of the blood" mean in a Christian's daily life?

4.How can we ensure we fulfill our duty as Paul did in Acts 20:26?

5.Which other scriptures emphasize accountability in sharing the Gospel message?

6.How can Acts 20:26 guide us in evangelism and discipleship efforts today?

7.What does Paul mean by declaring himself "innocent of the blood of all men" in Acts 20:26?

8.How does Acts 20:26 relate to the concept of personal responsibility in sharing the Gospel?

9.What historical context surrounds Paul's statement in Acts 20:26?

10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Acts 20?

11.Is killing in war considered murder?

12.Did Paul’s claim that his listeners would never see him again (Acts 20:25) prove accurate, and how can this be confirmed?

13.2 Samuel 4:8-11 - How can David both punish the men for killing Ishbosheth and still claim God's hand in his rise to power without contradiction?

14.What does the Bible say about baptism and communion?

What Does Acts 20:26 Mean

Therefore

• The word “Therefore” links Paul’s statement to the message he has just delivered to the Ephesian elders (Acts 20:17-25).

• He has proclaimed “the whole will of God” (Acts 20:27) and warned them to guard the flock.

• Because God’s Word is perfect and complete (2 Timothy 3:16-17;Psalm 19:7), Paul’s forthcoming claim rests on the absolute sufficiency of what he has already taught.

I testify to you this day

• “I testify” signals a solemn, courtroom-style declaration; Paul calls the elders as witnesses to his ministry.

• “This day” underscores immediacy—Paul is about to leave and may never see them again (Acts 20:25).

• Similar moments: Joshua’s farewell charge (Joshua 24:15-22) and Samuel’s parting words (1 Samuel 12:3-5). Each faithful servant publicly affirms integrity before departing.

that I am innocent

• Paul asserts moral blamelessness regarding his duty. Innocence here is not sinless perfection but freedom from guilt tied to neglecting God-given responsibility (Ezekiel 33:7-9).

• He has:

– Preached repentance and faith in Jesus (Acts 20:21).

– Withheld nothing profitable (Acts 20:20).

– Labored “night and day with tears” (Acts 20:31).

• Because he fulfilled his calling (2 Timothy 4:7), no charge of unfaithfulness can stand.

of the blood of all men

• “Blood” points to accountability for souls. Failing to warn of judgment makes one liable for another’s ruin (Ezekiel 3:17-19).

• Paul’s clear gospel proclamation removes that liability; if anyone rejects the message, the responsibility is their own (Acts 13:46;Matthew 10:14).

• This underscores the urgency of evangelism: believers must speak so that others can decide, knowing eternity hangs in the balance (Romans 10:14-15).

summary

Paul links his life’s work to God’s perfect Word, solemnly declaring that he has fully discharged his duty. By faithfully preaching the whole gospel, he stands free from responsibility for anyone’s lostness. His example urges every believer to speak truth boldly and completely, trusting that obedience to Scripture secures a clear conscience before God and men.

Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers

(26)I am pure from the blood of all men.--The image was a familiar one in the Apostle's lips (Acts 18:6). It rested on the language of an older prophet (Ezekiel 3:18;Ezekiel 3:20). He had acted on the teaching of that prophet, and none could require the blood of any man at his hands.

Pulpit Commentary

Verse 26.- Testify unto you fortake you to record, A.V. The solemnity of this address is dependent upon the speaker's conviction that he was speaking to his hearers for the last time. Hence the force of the words, "this day" (ἐν τῇ σήμερον ἡμέρᾳ); "my last opportunity."I am pure, etc. (comp.Ezekiel 3:17-21;Ezekiel 33:2, 9;Hebrews 13:17). Note the peril of hiding or watering God's truth.

Parallel Commentaries ...

Greek

Therefore
διότι(dioti)
Conjunction
Strong's 1360:On this account, because, for. From dia and hoti; on the very account that, or inasmuch as.

I testify
μαρτύρομαι(martyromai)
Verb - Present Indicative Middle or Passive - 1st Person Singular
Strong's 3143:(properly: To call (summon) to witness, and then absolutely) To testify, protest, asseverate; To conjure, solemnly charge.

to you
ὑμῖν(hymin)
Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative 2nd Person Plural
Strong's 4771:You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.

this
σήμερον(sēmeron)
Adverb
Strong's 4594:Today, now. Neuter of a presumed compound of the article ho and hemera; on the day; generally, now.

day
ἡμέρᾳ(hēmera)
Noun - Dative Feminine Singular
Strong's 2250:A day, the period from sunrise to sunset.

that
ὅτι(hoti)
Conjunction
Strong's 3754:Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because.

I [am]
εἰμι(eimi)
Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular
Strong's 1510:I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.

innocent
καθαρός(katharos)
Adjective - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's 2513:Clean.

of
ἀπὸ(apo)
Preposition
Strong's 575:From, away from. A primary particle; 'off, ' i.e. Away, in various senses.

the
τοῦ(tou)
Article - Genitive Neuter Singular
Strong's 3588:The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.

blood
αἵματος(haimatos)
Noun - Genitive Neuter Singular
Strong's 129:Blood, literally, figuratively or specially; by implication, bloodshed, also kindred.

of all [men].
πάντων(pantōn)
Adjective - Genitive Masculine Plural
Strong's 3956:All, the whole, every kind of. Including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole.

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NT Apostles: Acts 20:26 Therefore I testify to you this day (Acts of the Apostles Ac)