For Paul had determined to sail past Ephesus, because he would not spend the time in Asia: for he hastened, if it were possible for him, to be at Jerusalem the day of Pentecost.
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John Chrysostom
AD 407
Since had he come there, he could not have sailed by; he did not like to pain those who would have begged him to remain. For he hasted, it says, if it were possible for him to keep the day of Pentecost in Jerusalem: and (this) was not possible (if he stayed). Observe, how he is also moved like other men. For therefore it is that all this is done, that we may not fancy that he was above human nature: (therefore) you see him desiring (something), and hasting, and in many instances not obtaining (his object): for those great and holy men were partakers of the same nature with us; it was in the will and purpose that they differed, and so it was that also they attracted upon themselves the great grace they did. See, for instance, how many things they order by an economy of their own. That we give not offense 2 Corinthians 6:3 to those who wish (to take offense), and, That our ministry be not blamed. Behold, both an irreproachable life and on the other hand condescension. This is (indeed to ...
Why this haste? Not for the sake of the feast, but of the multitude. At the same time, by this he conciliated the Jews, as being one that did honor the feasts, wishing to gain even his adversaries: at the same time also he delivers the word. Accordingly, see what great gain accrued, from all being present. But that the interests of the people of Ephesus might not be neglected on that account, he managed for this in a different way. But let us look over again what has been said.
