Acts 16:12

And from thence to Philippi, which is the chief city of that part of Macedonia, [and] a colony: and we were in that city abiding certain days.

And {G5037} from thence {G1564} to {G1519} Philippi {G5375}, which {G3748} is {G2076} the chief {G4413} city {G4172} of that part {G3310} of Macedonia {G3109}, and a colony {G2862}: and {G1161} we were {G2258} in {G1722} that {G5026} city {G4172} abiding {G1304} certain {G5100} days {G2250}.

and from there, we went on to Philippi, a Roman colony and the leading city of that part of Macedonia. We spent a few days in this city;

From there we went to the Roman colony of Philippi, the leading city of that district of Macedonia. And we stayed there several days.

and from thence to Philippi, which is a city of Macedonia, the first of the district, a Roman colony: and we were in this city tarrying certain days.

Commentary

Acts 16:12 marks a pivotal moment in the expansion of the early Christian church, detailing the arrival of the Apostle Paul and his companions in Philippi. This verse follows directly after Paul's vision of the Macedonian man, which prompted the apostolic team to cross into Europe.

Historical and Cultural Context

Philippi was a prominent city in the Roman province of Macedonia, strategically located on the Egnatian Way, a major Roman road. The text emphasizes its status as "the chief city of that part of Macedonia, [and] a colony." The term "colony" (Latin: colonia) is significant; it meant Philippi was a Roman military settlement, populated by retired Roman soldiers and citizens, enjoying the rights and privileges of Roman law, similar to cities in Italy itself. This status granted its inhabitants Roman citizenship and often exempted them from certain taxes. Its Roman character would later play a role in the events that unfold, particularly in Paul and Silas's imprisonment and release (see Acts 16:37).

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Direction: The journey to Philippi was not accidental but a direct response to a divine vision, highlighting God's sovereign guidance in missionary endeavors.
  • Strategic Gospel Expansion: God led Paul to a key city in Europe, indicating His intention for the gospel to spread beyond Asia Minor and into the Western world. Philippi became the first place in Europe where Paul established a Christian community.
  • The Beginning of European Christianity: This verse marks the geographical entry point of the Christian message into the European continent, setting the stage for the growth of the church in the Western world.

Linguistic Insights

The description "chief city" (Greek: protos) combined with "a colony" paints a picture of a city with considerable influence and Roman identity. While not necessarily the largest city in Macedonia, its colonial status gave it a unique legal and social standing, making it a significant hub for Roman influence and, consequently, for the spread of the gospel.

Practical Application

Acts 16:12 reminds believers that God often directs His servants to strategically important locations, even if they initially seem unfamiliar or challenging. It underscores the importance of obedience to divine leading, no matter how unexpected the path. The establishment of the church in Philippi led to a vibrant community, to whom Paul would later write the Epistle to the Philippians, a testament to the fruit of God's strategic guidance and the apostles' faithfulness.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 1 Thessalonians 2:2

    But even after that we had suffered before, and were shamefully entreated, as ye know, at Philippi, we were bold in our God to speak unto you the gospel of God with much contention.

  • Philippians 1:1

    ¶ Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons:

  • Acts 20:6

    And we sailed away from Philippi after the days of unleavened bread, and came unto them to Troas in five days; where we abode seven days.

  • Acts 16:21

    And teach customs, which are not lawful for us to receive, neither to observe, being Romans.

  • Acts 16:9

    And a vision appeared to Paul in the night; There stood a man of Macedonia, and prayed him, saying, Come over into Macedonia, and help us.
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