Acts 17:14

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

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}.

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

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

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

Commentary

Acts 17:14 records a pivotal moment in Paul's second missionary journey, illustrating the constant challenges faced by the early apostles and the strategic decisions made by the nascent church.

Context of Acts 17:14

This verse follows Paul's ministry in Thessalonica and Berea. In Thessalonica, Paul's preaching led to significant conversions but also fierce opposition from jealous Jews, who formed a mob and caused an uproar (Acts 17:5-9). Seeking safety, Paul, Silas, and Timothy moved to Berea, where the Jews were described as "more noble" because they eagerly received the word and diligently examined the Scriptures daily (Acts 17:11). However, the agitators from Thessalonica pursued them to Berea, continuing to stir up trouble and incite the crowds against Paul (Acts 17:13). Faced with this escalating threat, the new believers, referred to as "the brethren," took immediate action to ensure Paul's safety, sending him away.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Persecution and Opposition: The verse vividly portrays the relentless opposition Paul and his companions faced for proclaiming the Gospel. This was a consistent pattern throughout Paul's ministry, highlighting the spiritual battle inherent in spreading God's truth.
  • Strategic Retreat for Ministry Preservation: The decision to send Paul away was not a sign of fear or defeat but a wise, strategic move by the Berean believers. It allowed Paul to escape immediate danger and preserve his life and ministry for future evangelistic endeavors, demonstrating that sometimes retreat is necessary for the greater mission.
  • Team Ministry and Division of Labor: While Paul departed, Silas and Timothy remained in Berea. This illustrates the effective teamwork characteristic of the early church's missionary efforts. Each member played a crucial role; while Paul was the primary evangelist moving to new territories, Silas and Timothy were vital for consolidating the work, discipling new believers, and strengthening the fledgling churches.
  • Protection and Care within the Community: The "brethren" acted decisively to protect Paul, demonstrating the strong bonds of fellowship and mutual care within the Christian community. They prioritized the safety of their spiritual leader, recognizing his invaluable role.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "sent away Paul to go as it were to the sea" suggests a direction rather than a definite mode of travel. The Greek word for "sent away" (exapesteilan) conveys a sense of urgency and dispatch, emphasizing the immediate and decisive action taken by the believers. The word "immediately" (Greek: eutheลs) further underscores the swiftness of their response to the threat.

Practical Application

Acts 17:14 offers several timeless lessons for believers today:

  • Expect Opposition: Spreading the Gospel often invites resistance. Believers should be prepared for challenges and not be discouraged by them.
  • Wisdom in Ministry: There are times when strategic withdrawal or a change of plans is not a failure but a wise decision to ensure the long-term effectiveness of ministry.
  • Value Teamwork: No one is meant to serve alone. The collaborative effort of Paul, Silas, and Timothy, and the support of the Berean believers, underscores the importance of diverse gifts and roles within the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12).
  • Mutual Support: The church is a community where believers care for and protect one another, especially those on the front lines of ministry.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Acts 17:10

    ยถ 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

    ยถ 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.
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