@SBF,
Do you personally believe that examining they way the first Christians used this verse has any bearing on determining how a verse should be translated?
Here are some examples:
Tertullian: Tertullian, a prolific writer in the late second and early third centuries, is noted for using the phrase "the blood of God," which appears to be a direct reflection of Acts 20:28. He emphasizes that the "Lord's flock" is the people of the Church, purchased with this divine blood.
Ignatius of Antioch: Ignatius of Antioch, an early Bishop of Antioch who wrote in the early second century, uses the phrase "rekindled in the blood of God" in his Letter to the Ephesians. This echoes the language and sentiment of Acts 20:28. His writings often emphasize the importance of church hierarchy and the leadership of bishops, further aligning with the context of Acts 20:28, where Paul addresses the elders (overseers/bishops).
So, regardless of any ambiguity that some modern critic might introduce, we know how the early church leaders quoted this verse.