Acts 20

I was touched this morning as Paul, on a return trip to Jerusalem, met with priesthood leaders of Ephesus in Miletus where he recounted the time he had spent with them in teaching and preaching the gospel.  He then tells them -

"And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more."  (New Testament | Acts 20:25)

How hard this must have been.  Then Paul warns them -

"Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.
29 For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.
30 Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.
31 Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears."  (New Testament | Acts 20:28 - 31)

Even though these must of been faithful men, I believe Paul understood that there eventually would be a great apostasy.  But His desire was that these brethren remain true and valiant.  I was touched by the scene as -

"...when he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all.
37 And they all wept sore, and fell on Paul's neck, and kissed him,
38 Sorrowing most of all for the words which he spake, that they should see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship."  (New Testament | Acts 20:36 - 38)

I believe this same experience has been had by many missionaries.