Acts 16:2

KJV

Which was well reported of by the brethren that were at Lystra and Iconium.

KJV (with Strong's)

Which {G3739} was well reported {G3140} of by {G5259} the brethren {G80} that were at {G1722} Lystra {G3082} and {G2532} Iconium {G2430}.

Complete Jewish Bible

All the brothers in Lystra and Iconium spoke well of Timothy.

Berean Standard Bible

The brothers in Lystra and Iconium spoke well of him.

American Standard Version

The same was well reported of by the brethren that were at Lystra and Iconium.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 16:2 concisely reveals the esteemed character and standing of Timothy, a pivotal figure in early Christian ministry. This verse highlights that Timothy, newly introduced to Paul, was not an unknown quantity but was already highly regarded and had an excellent reputation among the Christian communities in Lystra and Iconium. This local endorsement was a crucial factor in Paul's decision to invite Timothy to join him on his second missionary journey, underscoring the vital role of community validation in discerning and affirming individuals for service in God's kingdom.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the introduction of Timothy in [Acts 16:1](/acts/16-1 "Acts 16:1 - Paul Meets Timothy"), where Paul encounters him during his second missionary journey. Having recently parted ways with Barnabas, Paul was seeking new companions for his evangelistic endeavors. The mention of Timothy's mother being Jewish and his father Greek in the preceding verse sets the stage for the practical considerations Paul would face in ministry, particularly concerning Jewish sensitivities. Acts 16:2 then serves as a crucial endorsement, providing the necessary background and affirmation of Timothy's character and spiritual maturity, which would prove indispensable for his future role as Paul's trusted co-laborer in spreading the gospel. This positive report from the local churches solidified Timothy's suitability for such a demanding mission.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient world, a person's reputation and public testimony were paramount, often determining their social standing, trustworthiness, and eligibility for various roles. For early Christian communities, which were often small, interconnected, and operating within a skeptical or hostile environment, the character of their leaders and members was of utmost importance. A "good report" was not merely a casual commendation but a public affirmation of one's integrity, faithfulness, and consistent Christian walk. Lystra and Iconium were cities where Paul had previously ministered and established churches during his [first missionary journey](/acts/14-6-7 "Acts 14:6-7 - Paul's Ministry in Lystra and Iconium"), making the brethren there eyewitnesses to Timothy's life and conduct. This local, firsthand testimony carried significant weight, providing Paul with reliable intelligence about Timothy's suitability for ministry, especially given the need for trusted and respected individuals to represent the nascent Christian movement.
* **Key Themes:** Acts 16:2 contributes significantly to several key themes within the book of Acts and broader New Testament theology. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Reputation and Character** as foundational for Christian leadership and service. Timothy's excellent standing among believers highlights that a consistent, godly life is a prerequisite for effective ministry. Secondly, it emphasizes **Community Validation** and the role of the local church in affirming individuals for ministry. The "brethren" in Lystra and Iconium provided a collective, positive witness, demonstrating the value of communal discernment and endorsement. Thirdly, the verse subtly touches upon **Discernment in Ministry**, as Paul, a seasoned apostle, relied on the trustworthy assessment of the local church when selecting a new co-worker. This practical approach to leadership selection is vital for the integrity and effectiveness of missionary endeavors, ensuring that those appointed are genuinely prepared, as seen in Timothy's later proven character in [Philippians 2:22](/philippians/2-22 "Philippians 2:22 - Timothy's Proven Character"). Finally, Timothy's solid reputation indicates his **Readiness for Service**, signifying his spiritual maturity and preparedness for the demanding work of evangelism and church planting alongside Paul.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **well reported (Greek, _martyréō'_):** From G3140, this verb means "to be a witness, i.e., testify (literally or figuratively)." It encompasses the idea of bearing record, giving evidence, or having a good testimony. In this context, it signifies that Timothy's life and conduct were exemplary and consistently attested to positively by those who observed him. It's not a fleeting compliment but a sustained commendation based on observable character and faithfulness.
* **brethren (Greek, _adelphós'_):** From G80, this term literally means "brother" but is used broadly in the New Testament to refer to fellow believers in Christ, emphasizing the spiritual family bond within the Christian community. The fact that the "brethren" provided the report highlights that Timothy's good standing was recognized and affirmed by the collective body of believers, signifying a communal validation of his character and spiritual maturity.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Which was well reported of":** This clause refers directly to Timothy, the subject of the preceding verse. It establishes his existing reputation, indicating that he was already known and highly regarded within the Christian communities. The passive voice ("was well reported of") implies that this commendation came from others, a testament to his observable life and character.
* **"by the brethren":** This specifies the source of the positive report. It was not merely a general public opinion but a specific endorsement from fellow believers, those who shared a common faith and were part of the spiritual family. This detail underscores the importance of intra-community testimony and the trust placed in the assessment of those within the church.
* **"that were at Lystra and Iconium":** This pinpoints the geographical locations from which the report originated. Lystra and Iconium were cities where Paul had previously established churches. This detail is crucial because it means the "brethren" providing the report were those who had direct, sustained observation of Timothy's life and ministry within their local contexts, lending credibility and weight to their testimony.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs **Metonymy** by using "the brethren" to represent not just individual believers, but the collective Christian communities in Lystra and Iconium and their corporate witness. This highlights the communal nature of spiritual discernment and affirmation. There is also an element of **Emphasis** through the explicit naming of both Lystra and Iconium, which underscores the widespread and consistent nature of Timothy's positive reputation across distinct Christian communities. This dual endorsement reinforces the credibility and depth of his character. Furthermore, the phrase "well reported of" can be seen as a form of **Euphemism** or **Understatement**, subtly conveying a profound and consistent godliness that went beyond mere absence of fault, implying an active and exemplary Christian walk that earned widespread respect.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 16:2 profoundly illustrates the theological principle that character and reputation, particularly within the community of faith, are indispensable for effective ministry. Timothy's good report was not a superficial assessment but a deep affirmation of his consistent walk with God, making him a credible and trustworthy candidate for Paul's demanding missionary work. This aligns with the New Testament's consistent emphasis on the moral and spiritual qualifications for church leadership, where a blameless reputation among believers and outsiders alike is paramount. The communal validation by the "brethren" underscores the church's role in discerning and affirming those called to serve, recognizing that spiritual gifts and callings are often confirmed through the witness of the body of Christ. This verse reminds us that God often uses the testimonies of His people to open doors for greater service, demonstrating His providential care in equipping His workers.

* [Philippians 2:19-22](/philippians/2-19-22 "Paul's Commendation of Timothy")
* [1 Timothy 3:7](/1_timothy/3-7 "Qualifications for Overseers")
* [Titus 1:6-7](/titus/1-6-7 "Qualifications for Elders")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 16:2 serves as a powerful reminder that our daily lives, our character, and our conduct within our local communities are not inconsequential but are profoundly impactful. Timothy's "good report" was not something he sought for himself, but a natural outcome of his consistent faithfulness and devotion. For us, this means that living a life of integrity, marked by genuine love for God and others, is the most effective form of witness. Our reputation, particularly within our Christian community, is a testament to the transformative power of the gospel in our lives. This verse challenges us to consider how our actions, words, and attitudes are perceived by those who know us best. Are we building a reputation of trustworthiness, humility, and spiritual maturity? The communal endorsement Timothy received also highlights the importance of the local church in nurturing and affirming its members for service. We are called not only to live exemplary lives but also to be discerning and affirming of others within the body of Christ, recognizing and encouraging those who demonstrate a genuine heart for God and a consistent walk.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does my daily life contribute to my "report" among fellow believers and those outside the church?**
* **In what ways can I actively cultivate a character that brings glory to God and earns the trust of my community?**
* **How can my local church better identify, affirm, and equip individuals for service based on their proven character and spiritual maturity?**
* **What is the significance of communal endorsement in today's context, and how can we value it more in discerning leadership?**

### FAQ

**Why was Timothy's reputation so important to Paul?**

Answer: Timothy's reputation was crucial to Paul for several reasons. Firstly, it provided **credibility and legitimacy** for Timothy's future ministry. As Paul prepared to take Timothy on a missionary journey, a positive report from established Christian communities meant that Timothy would be readily accepted and trusted by the churches they would visit. This was especially important given Timothy's mixed heritage (Jewish mother, Greek father), which could have raised questions in some Jewish communities. Secondly, it indicated Timothy's **spiritual maturity and reliability**. Paul needed a trustworthy and capable co-worker who could handle the rigors and challenges of missionary life, including teaching, discipling, and facing opposition. A good report from those who knew him best served as a strong endorsement of his character and proven faithfulness, as seen in Paul's later commendation of Timothy's steadfastness in [Philippians 2:19-20](/philippians/2-19-20 "Timothy's Devotion"). Finally, it demonstrated **God's providential leading**. Paul was not simply picking a random individual but was discerning God's will through the testimony of the Spirit-filled community, ensuring that Timothy was indeed a chosen vessel for the work.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Acts 16:2 speaks of Timothy's commendable reputation among the brethren, it ultimately points to the supreme "good report" of Jesus Christ, the perfect Son of God. Timothy's testimony was a reflection of the transformative power of Christ in his life, enabling him to live in a way that honored God and earned the respect of others. Jesus, unlike any human, lived a life of absolute perfection, His character consistently "well reported of" by God the Father Himself, as heard at His baptism ([Matthew 3:17](/matthew/3-17 "Matthew 3:17 - God's Affirmation of Jesus")) and transfiguration ([Matthew 17:5](/matthew/17-5 "Matthew 17:5 - The Voice from the Cloud")). His works, miracles, and teachings bore undeniable witness to His divine authority and compassionate heart ([John 10:37-38](/john/10-37-38 "John 10:37-38 - Jesus' Works Testify of Him")). The good report of believers like Timothy serves as a living testament to the indwelling Christ, demonstrating His power to conform us to His image ([Romans 8:29](/romans/8-29 "Romans 8:29 - Conformed to Christ's Image")). Our call, therefore, is to live lives that consistently bear a good report, not for our own glory, but so that Christ may be seen and glorified through us, drawing others to the ultimate "Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Timothy 5:10

Well reported of for good works; if she have brought up children, if she have lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints' feet, if she have relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work.

2 Timothy 3:15

And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.

Acts 6:3

Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.

Acts 16:40

And they went out of the prison, and entered into [the house of] Lydia: and when they had seen the brethren, they comforted them, and departed.

2 Timothy 3:11

Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of [them] all the Lord delivered me.

Acts 13:51

But they shook off the dust of their feet against them, and came unto Iconium.

Hebrews 11:2

For by it the elders obtained a good report.