Acts 20:3

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G5037} there abode {G4160} three {G5140} months {G3376}. And when the Jews {G5259}{G2453} laid {G1096} wait {G1917} for him {G846}, as he was about {G3195} to sail {G321} into {G1519} Syria {G4947}, he purposed {G1096}{G1106} to return {G5290} through {G1223} Macedonia {G3109}.

Complete Jewish Bible

where he spent three months. As he was preparing to set sail for Syria, he discovered a plot against him by the unbelieving Jews; so he changed his mind and decided to return by way of Macedonia.

Berean Standard Bible

where he stayed three months. And when the Jews formed a plot against him as he was about to sail for Syria, he decided to go back through Macedonia.

American Standard Version

And when he had spent three months there, and a plot was laid against him by the Jews as he was about to set sail for Syria, he determined to return through Macedonia.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 20:3 details a pivotal moment in Paul's third missionary journey, where his planned sea voyage from Greece to Syria was abruptly altered due to a Jewish plot against his life. Having spent three months, likely in Corinth, Paul prudently decided to retrace his steps through Macedonia, demonstrating both his strategic wisdom in the face of danger and his unwavering commitment to his apostolic mission, even when circumstances necessitated a significant change of plans.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Acts 20:3 is situated within the broader narrative of Paul's third missionary journey, which began in [Acts 18:23](/acts/18-23 "Paul's Third Missionary Journey Begins"). Immediately preceding this verse, Paul has spent considerable time ministering in Greece, strengthening the churches and teaching. The previous verses (Acts 20:1-2) describe his departure from Ephesus after a significant riot and his subsequent journey through Macedonia, where he encouraged believers before arriving in Greece (likely Achaia, with Corinth as his base). This verse marks the conclusion of his three-month stay in Greece and sets the stage for his final journey towards Jerusalem, a journey fraught with warnings and dangers, as highlighted in the subsequent chapters of [Acts 20](/acts/20 "Acts Chapter 20 - Paul's Farewell to the Ephesian Elders") and [Acts 21](/acts/21 "Acts Chapter 21 - Paul's Journey to Jerusalem").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul's ministry often stirred significant opposition, particularly from segments of the Jewish population who rejected his message of salvation through Christ and his inclusion of Gentiles. "Laying wait" (ἐπιβουλὴ, *epiboulē*) for an individual was a known tactic, often involving ambushes or conspiracies, and was a serious threat in the ancient world, especially for travelers. Sea travel was common and often preferred for speed and efficiency, connecting major port cities across the Roman Empire. The route from Greece (e.g., Corinth or Cenchreae) directly to Syria (e.g., Antioch) was a standard maritime path. However, land travel through Macedonia, though longer and more arduous, offered greater control over one's immediate environment and the ability to avoid specific dangers at sea. Paul's decision reflects a pragmatic response to a genuine and life-threatening conspiracy, indicating the real and constant dangers faced by early Christian missionaries.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several overarching themes in Acts and Paul's ministry. Firstly, it underscores the **persistent opposition** Paul faced from hostile factions, a recurring motif throughout his missionary endeavors, as seen in [Acts 13:50](/acts/13-50 "Jewish Opposition in Pisidian Antioch") and [Acts 14:19](/acts/14-19 "Paul Stoned in Lystra"). Secondly, it highlights Paul's **prudence and divine guidance**, demonstrating how he combined practical wisdom with reliance on God's leading, even if it meant altering well-laid plans. His decision to change routes exemplifies a flexible and discerning approach to ministry. Finally, it reinforces Paul's **unwavering commitment to his mission**, as despite the dangers, he did not abandon his journey but rather sought a safer means to continue towards his ultimate destination of Jerusalem, where he intended to deliver an offering and complete his journey, as previously purposed in [Acts 19:21](/acts/19-21 "Paul's Resolve to Go to Jerusalem").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **laid wait (Greek, _epiboulḗ'_):** From a presumed compound of ἐπί (upon) and βούλομαι (to will, intend), this term signifies a "plan against someone," specifically a "plot" or "conspiracy." It denotes a premeditated, malicious scheme to harm or ambush, emphasizing the deliberate and dangerous nature of the opposition Paul faced. It is not a random act but an organized attempt on his life.
* **purposed (Greek, _gnṓmē'_):** While the verb form in the KJV text is "he purposed," the Strong's G1106 refers to the noun *gnōmē*, which means "cognition," "opinion," or "resolve" (counsel, consent, etc.). In this context, it speaks to Paul's deliberate "mind" or "purpose" in making the decision to change his travel plans. It indicates a reasoned and intentional choice made in response to the threat.
* **return (Greek, _hypostréphō'_):** This verb, composed of ὑπό (under, behind) and στρέφω (to turn), literally means "to turn under (behind)," or more commonly, "to return" or "turn back." It describes Paul's change of direction, indicating he would retrace his steps through a region he had recently traversed (Macedonia) rather than proceeding directly by sea to Syria.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And there abode three months."**: This clause indicates the duration of Paul's stay in Greece, likely in Corinth, a significant period allowing for deep teaching, strengthening of the church, and potentially the writing of epistles (e.g., Romans). The "there" refers to the region of Greece, where he had traveled after his time in Macedonia.
* **"And when the Jews laid wait for him, as he was about to sail into Syria,"**: This segment reveals the immediate catalyst for Paul's change of plans. "The Jews" here refers to those hostile Jewish factions who consistently opposed Paul's ministry. Their "laying wait" (a plot or ambush) was timed for his planned departure by sea to Syria, indicating a specific and dangerous conspiracy. Syria was his intended destination, likely Antioch, the base for his missionary journeys.
* **"he purposed to return through Macedonia."**: Faced with the credible threat, Paul made a decisive and prudent change. Instead of sailing directly, he "purposed" (made a firm decision) to "return" (retrace his steps) by land "through Macedonia." This detour, though longer, offered a safer alternative, allowing him to avoid the ambush and continue his journey towards Jerusalem, albeit by a different route.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs **Narrative Exposition** to succinctly convey a critical turning point in Paul's journey. The phrase "laid wait for him" functions as **Foreshadowing**, hinting at the ongoing dangers Paul would face, particularly as he approached Jerusalem, a theme that intensifies in subsequent chapters. The shift in Paul's travel plans from sea to land demonstrates **Prudence** and **Adaptability** as character traits, showcasing his practical wisdom in navigating perilous circumstances while remaining committed to his overarching mission.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 20:3 powerfully illustrates the reality of spiritual warfare and the constant opposition faced by those committed to advancing God's kingdom. Paul's experience reminds believers that faithfulness to the Gospel often invites hostility, yet God's sovereign hand is at work even amidst plots and dangers. Paul's decision to alter his route, rather than press on recklessly, highlights the biblical principle of wisdom and discernment in ministry, demonstrating that trusting God's providence does not negate the need for practical caution. This episode underscores that God's purposes for His servants will be accomplished, even if the path to fulfillment involves unexpected detours and challenges orchestrated by human malice.

* [Psalm 37:32-33](/psalms/37-32-33 "The wicked watches for the righteous and seeks to put him to death; the Lord will not abandon him.")
* [Proverbs 21:30-31](/proverbs/21-30-31 "No wisdom, no understanding, no counsel can avail against the Lord. The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the Lord.")
* [Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "All things work together for good for those who love God.")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Paul's experience in Acts 20:3 offers profound insights for contemporary believers navigating a world that often opposes the values and message of the Kingdom. We are reminded that commitment to Christ and His mission does not guarantee an easy path; indeed, it often invites opposition, plots, and resistance, just as it did for Paul. Yet, Paul's response—a combination of spiritual discernment and practical wisdom—serves as a powerful model. He didn't abandon his mission or succumb to fear, but he prudently adapted his strategy. This teaches us the importance of being alert to spiritual dangers, seeking God's guidance, and being flexible in our methods while remaining steadfast in our ultimate purpose. God's protection is not a promise of immunity from trouble, but a guarantee of His presence and ultimate triumph, even using detours and difficulties to further His divine plan.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do I respond when my plans for ministry or life are disrupted by unexpected opposition or challenges?**
* **In what areas of my life might I need to exercise more prudence and wisdom, rather than simply pressing forward with a predetermined course?**
* **How can I cultivate a deeper trust in God's sovereignty and protection, even when facing threats or uncertainty?**

### FAQ
**Why were the Jews "laying wait" for Paul?**

Answer: The "laying wait" (Greek: *epiboulē*, a plot or conspiracy) by certain Jewish factions against Paul was a recurring theme throughout his missionary journeys. Their opposition stemmed primarily from their rejection of Jesus as the Messiah and Paul's teaching that salvation was by faith in Christ, not by adherence to the Mosaic Law, and that Gentiles were included in God's covenant people without first becoming proselytes to Judaism. This message was seen as a threat to their religious traditions and authority, leading to intense hostility and attempts to silence or kill Paul, as also seen in [Acts 13:45](/acts/13-45 "Jewish Opposition in Pisidian Antioch") and [Acts 23:12-14](/acts/23-12-14 "Jewish Plot Against Paul in Jerusalem").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 20:3, though seemingly a logistical detail, subtly points to Christ's ultimate victory over all opposition and His sovereign guidance of His servants. Just as Paul faced plots against his life, Jesus Himself was the subject of numerous conspiracies and attempts on His life by religious authorities, culminating in His crucifixion (e.g., [Matthew 26:3-4](/matthew/26-3-4 "The Chief Priests Plot Against Jesus")). Yet, through His death and resurrection, Christ disarmed principalities and powers, triumphing over all evil ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Christ's Triumph Over Powers and Authorities")). Paul's prudent detour through Macedonia, rather than a direct sea route, reflects the wisdom of God, who often works through unexpected paths to accomplish His will. This mirrors the divine plan of salvation, where God's ultimate purpose was achieved not through human strength or direct confrontation, but through the seemingly weak and circuitous path of the cross ([1 Corinthians 1:18-25](/1_corinthians/1-18-25 "The Wisdom of God and the Foolishness of the World")). Ultimately, Paul's protection and continued ministry, despite the plots, testify to the resurrected Christ's ongoing work through His Spirit, ensuring that His church will prevail against the gates of hell ([Matthew 16:18](/matthew/16-18 "The Church Built on the Rock")). Paul's journey, though circuitous, was always under the sovereign hand of the Lord, who had a greater purpose for him in Jerusalem and Rome, echoing the divine orchestration of all things for the glory of God in Christ ([Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "All things work together for good for those who love 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

Acts 20:19

Serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and temptations, which befell me by the lying in wait of the Jews:

2 Corinthians 11:26

[In] journeyings often, [in] perils of waters, [in] perils of robbers, [in] perils by [mine own] countrymen, [in] perils by the heathen, [in] perils in the city, [in] perils in the wilderness, [in] perils in the sea, [in] perils among false brethren;

Acts 9:23

¶ And after that many days were fulfilled, the Jews took counsel to kill him:

Acts 9:24

But their laying await was known of Saul. And they watched the gates day and night to kill him.

Acts 25:3

And desired favour against him, that he would send for him to Jerusalem, laying wait in the way to kill him.

2 Corinthians 7:5

¶ For, when we were come into Macedonia, our flesh had no rest, but we were troubled on every side; without [were] fightings, within [were] fears.

Proverbs 1:11

If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: