We boarded an Adramyttian ship about to sail for ports along the coast of Asia, and we put out to sea. Aristarchus, a Macedonian from Thessalonica, was with us. We boardedThe phrase "we boarded" indicates the beginning of a journey, a collective action involving Paul and his companions. The use of "we" suggests that the author, traditionally understood to be Luke, is an eyewitness to the events. This personal involvement adds credibility and a sense of immediacy to the narrative. The act of boarding a ship in the ancient world was a significant undertaking, often fraught with danger and uncertainty, reflecting the commitment and courage of Paul and his companions in their mission. an Adramyttian ship
Adramyttium was a city located in the region of Mysia in Asia Minor, near modern-day Turkey. The mention of an "Adramyttian ship" provides a historical anchor, indicating the ship's origin and likely its trade route. Ships from Adramyttium were known for their involvement in commerce across the Mediterranean. This detail underscores the interconnectedness of the ancient world and the spread of the Gospel through established trade routes. about to sail for ports along the coast of Asia
This phrase highlights the intended route of the ship, which was to sail along the coast of Asia Minor. The coastal journey suggests a strategic plan to navigate through known ports, which were hubs of commerce and communication. This route would have been familiar to traders and travelers of the time, emphasizing the practical aspects of Paul's journey and the providential use of existing infrastructure for the spread of Christianity. and we put out to sea
The phrase "and we put out to sea" signifies the commencement of the voyage. In the ancient world, setting sail was a momentous event, often accompanied by rituals or prayers for safety. The sea was both a means of connection and a source of peril, symbolizing the challenges and opportunities faced by early Christians as they spread the Gospel. This act of setting sail can be seen as a metaphor for faith and trust in God's guidance amidst uncertainty. Aristarchus, a Macedonian from Thessalonica, was with us
Aristarchus is identified as a Macedonian from Thessalonica, providing a personal connection and a sense of community among Paul's companions. His presence highlights the diverse backgrounds of early Christian believers and the unity found in their shared mission. Aristarchus is mentioned elsewhere in the New Testament as a faithful companion of Paul, illustrating the importance of fellowship and support in the Christian journey. His inclusion in this narrative underscores the theme of partnership in ministry and the strength found in Christian brotherhood. Persons / Places / Events 1. Adramyttian ShipA vessel originating from Adramyttium, a city located in the region of Mysia in Asia Minor. This ship was likely a merchant vessel, indicating the common practice of using commercial ships for passenger travel in the ancient world. 2. AsiaRefers to the Roman province of Asia, which is part of modern-day Turkey. This region was significant in early Christian history, with several churches established there. 3. AristarchusA Macedonian from Thessalonica, a companion of Paul. Aristarchus is mentioned elsewhere in the New Testament as a fellow worker and prisoner with Paul, indicating his dedication and loyalty to the mission. 4. ThessalonicaA major city in Macedonia, known for its strategic location and vibrant Christian community. Paul wrote two epistles to the Thessalonians, highlighting the importance of this city in early Christianity. 5. Paul's Journey to RomeThis event is part of Paul's journey to Rome, where he was to stand trial. It reflects the broader account of Paul's missionary journeys and his commitment to spreading the Gospel despite facing numerous challenges. Teaching Points Faithful CompanionshipAristarchus' presence with Paul highlights the importance of having faithful companions in ministry. We are encouraged to seek and be supportive partners in our spiritual journeys. Courage in AdversityThe journey on the Adramyttian ship is a reminder of the courage required to follow God's calling, even when it leads us into uncertain and potentially dangerous situations. God's Sovereignty in TravelDespite the challenges of ancient travel, God's hand is evident in guiding Paul and his companions. We can trust in God's sovereignty over our own journeys and endeavors. Commitment to the GospelPaul's determination to reach Rome, despite the risks, serves as an example of unwavering commitment to the mission of spreading the Gospel. We are called to prioritize the Gospel in our lives, regardless of the obstacles. Bible Study Questions 1. What can we learn from Aristarchus' role in Paul's journey about the importance of community and support in our own spiritual lives? 2. How does the mention of the Adramyttian ship and the journey to Rome illustrate the challenges faced by early Christians, and how can this inspire us in our own faith journeys? 3. In what ways does Paul's determination to reach Rome, despite the dangers, challenge us to evaluate our own commitment to sharing the Gospel? 4. How can we apply the concept of God's sovereignty over Paul's travels to our own lives, especially when facing uncertainty or adversity? 5. Reflecting on the broader account of Acts, how does this passage connect with the theme of perseverance in the face of trials, and how can we apply this to our daily walk with Christ? Connections to Other Scriptures Acts 19:29Aristarchus is mentioned as being seized during a riot in Ephesus, showing his longstanding association with Paul and his willingness to face danger for the sake of the Gospel. Colossians 4:10Aristarchus is referred to as a fellow prisoner with Paul, emphasizing his close companionship and shared suffering in the ministry. 2 Corinthians 11:25-26Paul's recounting of his hardships, including shipwrecks, provides context for the perilous nature of sea travel in the ancient world and underscores his perseverance. People Aristarchus, Augustus, Julius, PaulPlaces Adramyttium, Adriatic Sea, Alexandria, Asia, Cauda, Cilicia, Cnidus, Crete, Cyprus, Fair Havens, Italy, Lasea, Lycia, Malta, Myra, Pamphylia, Phoenix, Salmone, Sidon, Syrtis, ThessalonicaTopics Accompanied, Adramyttian, Adramyttium, Adramyt'tium, Along, Aristarchus, Aristar'chus, Asia, Board, Coast, Coasts, Embarked, Embarking, Entering, Forming, Lanched, Launched, Macedonian, Macedo'nian, Meaning, Navigate, Party, Places, Ports, Province, Regions, Sail, Sailing, Ship, Thessalonica, Thessaloni'ca, TownsDictionary of Bible Themes Acts 27:1-2 4263 Rome Acts 27:1-44 5517 seafaring Library A Short Confession of Faith
'...There stood by me this night the angel of God, whose I am, and whom I serve.'--ACTS xxvii. 23. I turn especially to those last words, 'Whose I am and whom I serve.' A great calamity, borne by a crowd of men in common, has a wonderful power of dethroning officials and bringing the strong man to the front. So it is extremely natural, though it has been thought to be very unhistorical, that in this story of Paul's shipwreck he should become guide, counsellor, inspirer, and a tower of strength; and …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture: The ActsA Total Wreck, all Hands Saved
'And as the shipmen were about to flee out of the ship, when they had let down the boat into the sea, under colour as though they would have cast anchors out of the foreship, 31. Paul said to the centurion and to the soldiers, Except these abide in the ship, ye cannot be saved. 32. Then the soldiers cut off the ropes of the boat, and let her fall off. 33. And while the day was coming on, Paul besought them all to take meat, saying, This day is the fourteenth day that ye have tarried and continued …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture: The Acts Tempest and Trust
And when the south wind blew softly, supposing that they had obtained their purpose, loosing thence, they sailed close by Crete. 14. But not long after there arose against it a tempestuous wind, called Euroclydon. 15. And when the ship was caught, and could not bear up into the wind, we let her drive. 16. And running under a certain island which is called Clauda, we had much work to come by the boat: 17. Which when they had taken up, they used helps, undergirding the ship; and, fearing lest they …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture: The Acts Seasons of Covenanting.
The duty is never unsuitable. Men have frequently, improperly esteemed the exercise as one that should be had recourse to, only on some great emergency. But as it is sinful to defer religious exercises till affliction, presenting the prospect of death, constrain to attempt them, so it is wrong to imagine, that the pressure of calamity principally should constrain to make solemn vows. The exercise of personal Covenanting should be practised habitually. The patriot is a patriot still; and the covenanter …
John Cunningham—The Ordinance of Covenanting The Wyclif of the East --Bible Translation
1801-1832 The Bible Carey's missionary weapon--Other vernacular translators--Carey's modest but just description of his labours--His philological key--Type-cutting and type-casting by a Hindoo blacksmith--The first manufacture of paper and steam-engines in the East--Carey takes stock of the translation work at the opening of 1808--In his workshop--A seminary of Bible translators--William Yates, shoemaker, the Coverdale of the Bengali Bible--Wenger--A Bengali Luther wanted--Carey's Bengali Bible--How …
George Smith—The Life of William Carey Of the Practice of Piety in Fasting.
There are divers kinds of fasting--First, A constrained fast, as when men either have not food to eat, as in the famine of Samaria (2 Kings vi. 25;) or, having food, cannot eat it for heaviness or sickness, as it befel them who were in the ship with St. Paul (Acts xxvii. 33.) This is rather famine than fasting. Secondly, A natural fast, which we undertake physically, for the health of our body. Thirdly, A civil fast, which the magistrate enjoins for the better maintenance of the commonwealth. Fourthly, …
Lewis Bayly—The Practice of Piety Spiritual Culture.
"And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son." 1 John 5:11. There is eternal life in Jesus, but for man to come into possession of this life he must comply with the requirements made by the Bible. After getting into possession of this life there are certain duties which man must faithfully perform to retain and develop it. After entering the wide fields of grace development is necessary. "But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior …
Charles Ebert Orr—The Gospel Day Upon Our Lord's SermonOn the Mount
Discourse 7 "Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance. For they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But thou, when thou fastest, anoint thine head, and wash thy face; That thou appear not unto men to fast, but unto thy Father which is in secret: And thy Father, which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly." Matthew 6:16-18. 1. It has been the endeavour of Satan, from the beginning of the world, …
John Wesley—Sermons on Several Occasions Appendix xv. The Location of Sychar, and the Date of Our Lord's visit to Samaria.
1. The Location of Sychar. Although modern writers are now mostly agreed on this subject, it may be well briefly to put before our readers the facts of the case. Till comparitively lately, the Sychar of St. John iv. was generally as representing the ancient Shechem. The first difficulty here was the name, since Shechem, or even Sichem, could scarcely be identified with Sychar, which is undoubtedly the correct reading. Accordingly, the latter term was represented as one of oppobrium, and derived from …
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah Conversion.
THE DIFFICULTY OF CONVERSION. CONVERSION to God is not so easy and so smooth a thing, as some would have men believe it is. Why is man's heart compared to fallow ground, God's word to a plough, and his ministers to ploughmen, if the heart indeed has no need of breaking in order to the receiving of the seed of God unto eternal life? Why is the conversion of the the soul compared to the grafting of a tree, if that be done without cutting? CONVERSION THE POWER OF GOD. A broken heart is the handy-work …
John Bunyan—The Riches of Bunyan Perseverance
'Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation.' I Pet 1:1. The fifth and last fruit of sanctification, is perseverance in grace. The heavenly inheritance is kept for the saints, and they are kept to the inheritance. I Pet 1:1. The apostle asserts a saint's stability and permanence in grace. The saint's perseverance is much opposed by Papists and Arminians; but it is not the less true because it is opposed. A Christian's main comfort depends upon this doctrine of perseverance. Take …
Thomas Watson—A Body of Divinity First Missionary Journey Scripture
STUDY III FIRST MISSIONARY JOURNEY Scripture, Acts 13:1-14:26 INTRODUCTION TO THE THREE MISSIONARY JOURNEYS Before taking up the study of the first missionary journey, attention is called to certain points which should be considered in regard to all three of them (Acts 13:1-21:17). We have now arrived at what we might call the watershed of the Acts of the Apostles. Hitherto we have had various scenes, characters, personages to consider. Henceforth Paul, his labors, his disputes, his speeches, occupy …
Henry T. Sell—Bible Studies in the Life of Paul Pastoral and Personal
FOURTH GROUP OF EPISTLES FIRST TIMOTHY. TITUS. SECOND TIMOTHY. THE PLACE OF THE EPISTLES +When Written.+--It is generally agreed among scholars that no place can be found for the writing of First Timothy, Titus, and Second Timothy in the period covered by Luke in his narrative in Acts. Agreeing with the tradition of the church, however, the opinion of many eminent scholars is that Paul was released from the first Roman imprisonment (Acts 28:16, 30), that he again took up his missionary work, and …
Henry T. Sell—Bible Studies in the Life of Paul Second Sunday Before Lent
Text: Second Corinthians 11, 19-33; 12, 1-9. 19 For ye bear with the foolish gladly, being wise yourselves. 20 For ye bear with a man, if he bringeth you into bondage, if he devoureth you, if he taketh you captive, if he exalteth himself, if he smiteth you on the face. 21 I speak by way of disparagement, as though we had been weak. Yet whereinsoever any is bold (I speak in foolishness), I am bold also. 22 Are they Hebrews? so am I. Are they Israelites? so am I. Are they the seed of Abraham? so am …
Martin Luther—Epistle Sermons, Vol. II Scriptural Christianity
"Whosoever heareth the sound of the trumpet, and taketh not warning; if the sword come, and take him away, his blood shall be upon his own head." Ezek. 33:4. "And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost." Acts 4:31. 1. The same expression occurs in the second chapter, where we read, "When the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all" (the Apostles, with the women, and the mother of Jesus, and his brethren) "with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing …
John Wesley—Sermons on Several Occasions That the Christian Miracles are not Recited, or Appealed To, by Early Christian Writers Themselves So Fully or Frequently as Might have Been Expected.
I shall consider this objection, first, as it applies to the letters of the apostles preserved in the New Testament; and secondly, as it applies to the remaining writings of other early Christians. The epistles of the apostles are either hortatory or argumentative. So far as they were occupied in delivering lessons of duty, rules of public order, admonitions against certain prevailing corruptions, against vice, or any particular species of it, or in fortifying and encouraging the constancy of the …
William Paley—Evidences of Christianity Meditations Before Dinner and Supper.
Meditate that hunger is like the sickness called a wolf; which, if thou dost not feed, will devour thee, and eat thee up; and that meat and drink are but as physic, or means which God hath ordained, to relieve and cure this natural infirmity and necessity of man. Use, therefore, to eat and to drink, rather to sustain and refresh the weakness of nature, than to satisfy the sensuality and delights of the flesh. Eat, therefore, to live, but live not to eat. There is no service so base, as for a man …
Lewis Bayly—The Practice of Piety The Wisdom of God
The next attribute is God's wisdom, which is one of the brightest beams of the Godhead. He is wise in heart.' Job 9:9. The heart is the seat of wisdom. Cor in Hebraeo sumitur pro judicio. Pineda. Among the Hebrews, the heart is put for wisdom.' Let men of understanding tell me:' Job 34:44: in the Hebrew, Let men of heart tell me.' God is wise in heart, that is, he is most wise. God only is wise; he solely and wholly possesses all wisdom; therefore he is called, the only wise God.' I Tim 1:17. All …
Thomas Watson—A Body of Divinity The Doctrine of Angels.
I. THEIR EXISTENCE. 1. THE TEACHING OF JESUS. 2. THE TEACHING OF THE APOSTLES. II. THEIR NATURE. 1. CREATED BEINGS. 2. SPIRITUAL BEINGS. 3. GREAT POWER AND MIGHT. 4. VARIOUS GRADES. 5. THE NUMBER OF ANGELS. III. THE FALL OF ANGELS. 1. TIME AND CAUSE. 2. THE WORK OF FALLEN ANGELS. 3. THE JUDGMENT OF FALLEN ANGELS. IV. THE WORK OF ANGELS. 1. THEIR HEAVENLY MINISTRY. 2. THEIR EARTHLY MINISTRY. a) In Relation to the Believer. b) In Relation to Christ's Second Coming. THE DOCTRINE OF ANGELS. We are not …
Rev. William Evans—The Great Doctrines of the Bible Links Acts 27:2 NIVActs 27:2 NLTActs 27:2 ESVActs 27:2 NASBActs 27:2 KJV
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