Acts 17:14

KJV

And then immediately the brethren sent away Paul to go as it were to the sea: but Silas and Timotheus abode there still.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} then {G5119} immediately {G2112} the brethren {G80} sent away {G1821} Paul {G3972} to go {G4198} as it were {G5613} to {G1909} the sea {G2281}: but {G1161}{G5037} Silas {G4609} and {G2532} Timotheus {G5095} abode {G5278} there {G1563} still {G5278}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The brothers sent Sha’ul away at once to go down to the seacoast, while Sila and Timothy stayed behind.

Berean Standard Bible

The brothers immediately sent Paul to the coast, but Silas and Timothy remained in Berea.

American Standard Version

And then immediately the brethren sent forth Paul to go as far as to the sea: and Silas and Timothy abode there still.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 17:14 captures a critical moment in Paul's second missionary journey, detailing the immediate and strategic action taken by the Berean believers to protect Paul from escalating persecution. Faced with persistent agitation from hostile Jews from Thessalonica, the "brethren" swiftly dispatched Paul towards the coast, while Silas and Timothy remained behind to continue nurturing the nascent church in Berea, highlighting the dynamic and often challenging nature of early apostolic ministry.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the broader narrative of Paul's evangelistic efforts following his departure from Philippi. Having faced severe opposition in [Thessalonica](/acts/17-1-9 "Acts 17:1-9 - Paul's Ministry in Thessalonica"), where a mob was incited against him and his companions, Paul, Silas, and Timothy moved to [Berea](/acts/17-10-15 "Acts 17:10-15 - The Noble Bereans"). The Bereans are commended for their noble character, diligently examining the Scriptures daily to verify Paul's teachings ([Acts 17:11](/acts/17-11 "Acts 17:11 - The Bereans' Diligence")). However, the tranquility was short-lived as the antagonistic Jews from Thessalonica pursued them, stirring up the crowds in Berea as well ([Acts 17:13](/acts/17-13 "Acts 17:13 - Persecution Follows Paul")). Acts 17:14 thus marks a necessary tactical withdrawal, ensuring Paul's safety and the continuation of the gospel mission, while also demonstrating the collaborative nature of their ministry.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul's missionary journeys consistently encountered a mix of receptivity and fierce opposition, particularly from Jewish communities who felt their traditions were threatened by the message of Christ. The Roman Empire, while generally tolerant of various religions, could become involved when public order was disturbed, as seen in the accusations against Paul and Silas in [Thessalonica](/acts/17-6-8 "Acts 17:6-8 - Accusations in Thessalonica"). The act of "sending away" Paul to the sea likely implies a plan for him to travel by ship, a common and efficient mode of transport in the ancient Mediterranean world, offering a quicker escape from immediate danger than overland routes. The mention of "the brethren" underscores the growing solidarity and protective instincts within the burgeoning Christian communities, who took responsibility for the safety of their leaders in a hostile environment.

* **Key Themes:** Acts 17:14 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the book of Acts. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates the **perseverance amidst persecution** that characterized the early church. Despite constant threats and violence, the apostles and believers continued to spread the gospel, demonstrating unwavering commitment to their mission, a theme echoed throughout [Acts](/acts/all "The Book of Acts - The Early Church"). Secondly, it highlights the **strategic wisdom in ministry**, showing that withdrawal from a dangerous situation is not a sign of fear or failure, but a prudent decision to preserve ministry and life for future endeavors. This aligns with Jesus' instruction to "flee to another city" when persecuted ([Matthew 10:23](/matthew/10-23 "Matthew 10:23 - Fleeing Persecution")). Thirdly, the verse showcases the vital importance of **team ministry and division of labor**. While Paul, the primary evangelist, departed, Silas and Timothy remained, indicating a deliberate strategy to consolidate the work, disciple new believers, and strengthen the local church, a pattern evident in many of Paul's letters, such as his instructions to Timothy in [1 Timothy](/1_timothy/all "1 Timothy - Paul's Letter to Timothy").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **immediately (Greek, _euthéōs'_):** This adverb signifies urgency and swiftness. Its inclusion emphasizes the rapid, decisive action taken by the Berean believers in response to the escalating threat. It suggests that there was no delay; the decision to send Paul away was executed without hesitation, underscoring the gravity of the situation and the protective instincts of the "brethren."
* **sent away (Greek, _exapostéllō'_):** Derived from "ek" (out of) and "apostellō" (to send), this verb means "to send away forth," implying a dispatch on a mission or a peremptory dismissal. Here, it conveys a deliberate and forceful act of sending Paul out of the immediate danger zone, not merely letting him leave, but actively facilitating his departure for his safety and the continuation of his ministry.
* **abode (Greek, _hypoménō'_):** This verb, meaning "to stay under (behind), remain; figuratively, to undergo, i.e., bear (trials), have fortitude, persevere," is crucial. While Paul was sent away, Silas and Timothy "abode there still." This indicates their deliberate decision to remain in Berea, not only to avoid danger but also to continue the work of consolidating the new church, discipling believers, and enduring any potential trials that might arise from the lingering opposition. It speaks to their commitment and perseverance in the face of adversity.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And then immediately the brethren sent away Paul":** This clause highlights the prompt and protective action taken by the new Christian community in Berea. The "brethren" (Gk. *adelphoi*), referring to the fellow believers, recognized the imminent danger posed by the agitators from Thessalonica and acted with urgency. Their decision to "send away" Paul (Gk. *exapostellō*) was a strategic move to ensure his safety and preserve his invaluable ministry. This demonstrates the strong bonds of fellowship and mutual care developing within the early church.
* **"to go as it were to the sea:":** This phrase indicates the general direction of Paul's departure. The expression "as it were to the sea" (Gk. *hōs epi tēn thalassan*) suggests that the journey was directed towards the coast, implying travel by ship was either the intended mode or the ultimate destination for onward travel. This vagueness might also serve as a protective measure, avoiding disclosure of Paul's precise route or destination to potential pursuers, ensuring his escape from the immediate threat in Berea.
* **"but Silas and Timotheus abode there still.":** This final clause presents a crucial contrast, emphasizing the division of labor within Paul's missionary team. While Paul was strategically removed from danger, Silas and Timothy remained in Berea. The verb "abode" (Gk. *hypomenō*) suggests not just staying, but enduring and persevering in their presence. Their continued presence was vital for nurturing the nascent Berean church, consolidating the work, and providing ongoing discipleship, showcasing the collaborative and resilient nature of early Christian missions.

#### Literary Devices
The passage effectively employs **Narrative Pacing** through the use of the adverb "immediately" (*euthéōs*), which instills a sense of urgency and swift action, conveying the pressing nature of the threat Paul faced. There is a clear **Contrast** established between Paul's departure and the decision of Silas and Timothy to remain, highlighting the strategic division of labor within the missionary team. This contrast underscores the distinct roles each played in the ongoing mission. Furthermore, the phrase "as it were to the sea" functions as a form of **Vagueness** or even **Euphemism**, indicating a general direction or mode of travel without revealing precise details, possibly for security reasons to protect Paul from his pursuers. This contributes to the sense of a rapid, almost clandestine, escape. Finally, the collective action of "the brethren" demonstrates **Characterization** through action, portraying the Berean believers as proactive, protective, and deeply committed to their spiritual leaders and the gospel mission.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 17:14 profoundly illustrates the reality of persecution in the life of those committed to spreading the Gospel, a theme consistently woven throughout the New Testament. It demonstrates that divine protection often comes not through miraculous intervention preventing danger, but through the wisdom and decisive action of God's people, enabling strategic withdrawal for the sake of continued ministry. The separation of the missionary team also highlights the distributed nature of ministry, where different individuals are called to different roles and locations, all contributing to the advancement of God's kingdom. This passage underscores the importance of community support and the willingness of believers to protect their leaders, recognizing their vital role in the spiritual growth and expansion of the church.

* [Matthew 10:23](/matthew/10-23 "Matthew 10:23 - Fleeing Persecution")
* [2 Corinthians 11:23-27](/2_corinthians/11-23-27 "2 Corinthians 11:23-27 - Paul's Sufferings for Christ")
* [Philippians 1:12-14](/philippians/1-12-14 "Philippians 1:12-14 - Imprisonment Advances the Gospel")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 17:14 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers, reminding us that commitment to the Gospel often entails facing opposition, yet it also calls for strategic wisdom and reliance on the community of faith. We are not always called to stand our ground defiantly in every confrontation; sometimes, a strategic retreat or a change of tactics is the wisest course of action to preserve our ability to serve and to ensure the long-term effectiveness of our mission. This verse also powerfully affirms the indispensable value of team ministry. No one is meant to carry the burden of ministry alone. Just as Paul, Silas, and Timothy each played their part, we too are called to recognize and value the diverse gifts and roles within the body of Christ, supporting one another, and collectively advancing the kingdom. Furthermore, the proactive care shown by the Berean "brethren" for Paul serves as a timeless example of mutual support and protection within the church, urging us to be vigilant in caring for and upholding those who labor among us, especially those on the front lines of spiritual battle.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might God be calling me to exercise strategic wisdom in my current circumstances, even if it means a "retreat" or change of plans?**
* **How can I better support and protect those in leadership or on the front lines of ministry within my community?**
* **What role do I play in my spiritual community, and how can I better collaborate with others to advance the Gospel, recognizing that not everyone is called to the same "front line"?**

### FAQ
**Why did Paul leave, and why did Silas and Timothy stay?**

Answer: Paul's departure was a strategic decision driven by escalating persecution. The hostile Jews from Thessalonica had followed him to Berea and were actively inciting the crowds against him. To ensure Paul's safety and the continuation of his vital evangelistic ministry, the Berean believers "sent him away." This was not a sign of fear or defeat, but a wise and necessary tactical withdrawal to preserve his life and mission. Silas and Timothy remained behind to consolidate the work in Berea, nurture the new believers, and strengthen the fledgling church. This division of labor highlights the collaborative nature of early Christian missions, where different team members fulfilled distinct, yet equally crucial, roles for the advancement of the Gospel. Their remaining allowed for the continued discipleship and establishment of the church in that region.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 17:14, with its depiction of Paul's strategic withdrawal and the enduring commitment of his companions, finds its ultimate resonance in the life and mission of Jesus Christ. While Paul fled persecution, Jesus himself often withdrew from crowds or hostile regions to fulfill His Father's will and preserve His ministry until the appointed time ([John 7:1](/john/7-1 "John 7:1 - Jesus Avoids Judea") and [John 11:54](/john/11-54 "John 11:54 - Jesus Withdraws")). He taught His disciples the wisdom of such strategic retreats ([Matthew 10:23](/matthew/10-23 "Matthew 10:23 - Fleeing Persecution")), knowing that their ultimate mission would require endurance. The "sending away" of Paul foreshadows Christ's own "sending" of His disciples into a hostile world, empowered by His Spirit, to continue His work ([John 20:21](/john/20-21 "John 20:21 - Jesus Sends Disciples")). Moreover, the "abiding" of Silas and Timothy in Berea, enduring in the face of potential hardship, reflects the steadfastness of Christ, who "abode" on the cross, enduring the ultimate suffering to secure salvation ([Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Jesus Endured the Cross")). Their perseverance in nurturing the church embodies the enduring presence of Christ through His Spirit in His body, the Church, which continues to stand firm and build up believers even when leaders must move on, ensuring that the work of the Kingdom "abides" and flourishes.

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

Acts 17:10

¶ And the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night unto Berea: who coming [thither] went into the synagogue of the Jews.

Matthew 10:23

But when they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another: for verily I say unto you, Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come.

Acts 9:30

[Which] when the brethren knew, they brought him down to Caesarea, and sent him forth to Tarsus.

Acts 9:25

Then the disciples took him by night, and let [him] down by the wall in a basket.

Acts 16:1

¶ Then came he to Derbe and Lystra: and, behold, a certain disciple was there, named Timotheus, the son of a certain woman, which was a Jewess, and believed; but his father [was] a Greek:

1 Timothy 1:3

As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine,

Acts 20:3

And [there] abode three months. And when the Jews laid wait for him, as he was about to sail into Syria, he purposed to return through Macedonia.