Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.
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2 Timothy 4:13
The cloke that I left at Troas with Carpus, when thou comest, bring [with thee], and the books, [but] especially the parchments. -
2 Corinthians 2:12
¶ Furthermore, when I came to Troas to [preach] Christ's gospel, and a door was opened unto me of the Lord, -
Acts 20:5
These going before tarried for us at Troas. -
Acts 16:11
Therefore loosing from Troas, we came with a straight course to Samothracia, and the next [day] to Neapolis;
Acts 16:8 marks a significant geographical point in the Apostle Paul's second missionary journey. This concise verse describes the movement of Paul, Silas, and Timothy as they continued their evangelistic travels.
Context
Preceding this verse, Paul and his companions had attempted to preach the gospel in certain regions of Asia Minor, but were "forbidden of the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia" and then "suffered them not" to go into Bithynia. This implies divine redirection, guiding them away from their initial plans. Mysia was a region in the northwest of Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey), and Troas was a major port city on its Aegean coast. Their journey through Mysia and arrival in Troas set the stage for a monumental shift in the spread of the gospel.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The phrase "passing by Mysia" suggests a transit through the region without a significant ministry stop, emphasizing their purposeful movement towards a specific destination. "Came down to Troas" likely refers to descending from the inland plateau to the coastal city, a common geographical description for that area.
Significance and Application
Acts 16:8, though seemingly a simple travel log, highlights how God often directs His servants through indirect paths and closed doors to lead them to His intended destination. For believers today, this verse serves as a reminder to: