Acts 20:4

KJV

And there accompanied him into Asia Sopater of Berea; and of the Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus; and Gaius of Derbe, and Timotheus; and of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} there accompanied {G4902} him {G846} into {G891} Asia {G773} Sopater {G4986} of Berea {G961}; and {G1161} of the Thessalonians {G2331}, Aristarchus {G708} and {G2532} Secundus {G4580}; and {G2532} Gaius {G1050} of Derbe {G1190}, and {G2532} Timotheus {G5095}; and {G1161} of Asia {G774}, Tychicus {G5190} and {G2532} Trophimus {G5161}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Sopater from Berea, the son of Pyrrhus, accompanied him; as did Aristarchus and Secundus from Thessalonica, Gaius from Derbe, Timothy, and Tychicus and Trophimus from the province of Asia.

Berean Standard Bible

Paul was accompanied by Sopater son of Pyrrhus from Berea, Aristarchus and Secundus from Thessalonica, Gaius from Derbe, Timothy, and Tychicus and Trophimus from the province of Asia.

American Standard Version

And there accompanied him as far as Asia, Sopater of Beroea, the son of Pyrrhus; and of the Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus; and Gaius of Derbe, and Timothy; and of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 20:4 meticulously records the names of seven individuals who accompanied the Apostle Paul on a crucial leg of his journey from Greece, through Macedonia, and ultimately towards Jerusalem. This verse provides a vivid snapshot of the collaborative and diverse nature of early Christian ministry, underscoring the importance of partnership and mutual support in the apostolic mission to spread the Gospel across the Roman world. It highlights Luke's careful attention to historical detail, affirming the communal effort behind Paul's evangelistic endeavors.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Acts 20:4 is situated within Paul's third missionary journey, specifically as he concludes his extensive ministry in Ephesus and prepares to depart from Greece (likely Corinth) to return to Jerusalem. The preceding verses detail Paul's decision to travel overland through Macedonia after a plot against him in Greece, indicating a period of significant transition and potential danger. The list of companions here immediately precedes Paul's farewell address to the Ephesian elders in Miletus ([Acts 20:17-38](/acts/20-17-38 "Acts 20:17-38 - Paul's Farewell to the Ephesian Elders")), a poignant moment where he anticipates future suffering and entrusts the church to God's care. The presence of these men is crucial for the journey, not only for companionship and support but also, as later suggested in [Acts 24:17](/acts/24-17 "Acts 24:17 - Paul's Return to Jerusalem with Alms"), to accompany the collection for the poor saints in Jerusalem, demonstrating the practical and communal aspects of their mission.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul's journey through Macedonia and Asia Minor was fraught with challenges, including potential ambushes and the arduous nature of ancient travel. The Roman province of Asia, particularly its capital Ephesus, was a major center for trade and pagan worship, making it a strategic but often hostile environment for Christian evangelism. The companions listed hail from various cities—Berea and Thessalonica in Macedonia, Derbe in Lycaonia (part of the Roman province of Galatia), and the province of Asia itself. This geographical diversity reflects the widespread impact of Paul's ministry and the interconnectedness of early Christian communities. Traveling in a group provided safety, mutual encouragement, and a broader representation of the burgeoning Christian movement, especially important for carrying significant financial contributions to Jerusalem.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Acts. Foremost is the theme of **Fellowship and Partnership in Ministry**. Paul rarely operated alone; his ministry was inherently collaborative, relying on a network of co-laborers who shared the burdens and joys of spreading the Gospel. This highlights the early church's understanding of ministry as a collective endeavor, not an individual pursuit. Another key theme is **Unity in Diversity**. The companions come from different geographical regions and backgrounds, yet they are united in their purpose, demonstrating the unifying power of the Holy Spirit across cultural and ethnic divides. Furthermore, Luke's meticulous inclusion of names reinforces the **Historical Veracity** of his account, providing specific details that ground the narrative in real-world events and individuals. Finally, the verse subtly underscores **Paul's Leadership and Influence**, as these individuals, representing various churches, were willing to commit to a potentially perilous journey under his guidance, testifying to his profound impact and the respect he commanded.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **accompanied (Greek, _synépomai'_):** This term, meaning "to attend (travel) in company with," emphasizes the intentional act of joining someone on a journey. It highlights the collaborative nature of Paul's ministry, indicating that these men were not merely coincidental travelers but committed companions sharing a common purpose and destination.
* **Gaius (Greek, _Gáïos'_):** Of Latin origin, Gaius was a common Roman name. The mention of "Gaius of Derbe" distinguishes him from other individuals named Gaius in the New Testament (e.g., [Acts 19:29](/acts/19-29 "Acts 19:29 - Gaius and Aristarchus in Ephesus"), [Romans 16:23](/romans/16-23 "Romans 16:23 - Gaius, Paul's Host"), [3 John 1:1](/3_john/1-1 "3 John 1:1 - Letter to Gaius")). His inclusion underscores the diverse geographical representation among Paul's companions, drawing from various regions touched by the Gospel.
* **Timotheus (Greek, _Timótheos'_):** Meaning "dear to God," Timotheus (Timothy) was one of Paul's most trusted and frequently mentioned co-workers. His presence here is significant, as he often served as Paul's delegate and a testament to Paul's commitment to mentoring younger leaders. Timothy's consistent companionship with Paul throughout various journeys highlights his indispensable role in the apostolic mission.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And there accompanied him into Asia Sopater of Berea;":** This clause introduces the first companion, Sopater, identified by his hometown, Berea. The phrase "into Asia" indicates the general direction of their travel, though they would not remain in Asia but pass through it on their way to Jerusalem. Sopater is likely the Sosipater mentioned in [Romans 16:21](/romans/16-21 "Romans 16:21 - Paul's Greetings to Rome"), suggesting a long-standing relationship with Paul.
* **"and of the Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus;":** From Thessalonica, a major city in Macedonia, came Aristarchus and Secundus. Aristarchus is a well-known companion of Paul, mentioned multiple times in Acts and Paul's epistles (e.g., [Acts 19:29](/acts/19-29 "Acts 19:29 - Aristarchus and Gaius in Ephesus"), [Acts 27:2](/acts/27-2 "Acts 27:2 - Aristarchus with Paul on Ship"), [Colossians 4:10](/colossians/4-10 "Colossians 4:10 - Aristarchus, Paul's Fellow Prisoner"), [Philemon 1:24](/philemon/1-24 "Philemon 1:24 - Aristarchus, Paul's Fellow Laborer")). Secundus is mentioned only here, emphasizing Luke's detailed record-keeping.
* **"and Gaius of Derbe, and Timotheus;":** Gaius is identified as being from Derbe, a city in Lycaonia where Paul had previously ministered. Timothy, a native of Lystra (near Derbe), is also listed. Timothy's consistent presence underscores his deep involvement in Paul's ministry, often serving as a personal representative and trusted messenger.
* **"and of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus.":** The final pair, Tychicus and Trophimus, are identified as being "of Asia," likely referring to the Roman province, and specifically Ephesus, a key center of Paul's ministry. Both men are frequently mentioned in Paul's later epistles as trusted couriers and companions (e.g., [Ephesians 6:21-22](/ephesians/6-21-22 "Ephesians 6:21-22 - Tychicus, a Faithful Minister"), [Colossians 4:7-8](/colossians/4-7-8 "Colossians 4:7-8 - Tychicus, a Beloved Brother"), [2 Timothy 4:12](/2_timothy/4-12 "2 Timothy 4:12 - Tychicus Sent to Ephesus"), [Titus 3:12](/titus/3-12 "Tychicus or Artemas to Nicopolis"), [Acts 21:29](/acts/21-29 "Acts 21:29 - Trophimus in the Temple")). Their presence is particularly significant as Trophimus's presence in Jerusalem later becomes a point of contention for Paul ([Acts 21:27-29](/acts/21-27-29 "Acts 21:27-29 - Paul Arrested in the Temple")).

#### Literary Devices
Luke's inclusion of this detailed list of names serves several literary purposes. Primarily, it is an example of **Enumeration**, providing a specific and exhaustive (for this leg of the journey) list of individuals. This meticulous naming reinforces the **Historicism** and **Verisimilitude** of the narrative, lending credibility to Luke's account as a reliable historical record. By naming specific individuals from distinct geographical locations, Luke employs **Specificity**, which grounds the broader narrative of the spread of the Gospel in concrete, verifiable details. Furthermore, the diversity of the companions' origins can be interpreted as **Symbolism**, representing the burgeoning universality of the early Christian church, drawing believers from various regions into a unified mission.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 20:4 powerfully illustrates the New Testament theology of collaborative ministry and the Body of Christ. The assembly of diverse individuals from various regions to accompany Paul signifies that the work of the Gospel is not meant to be carried out in isolation but through interdependent partnership. This collective effort reflects the Spirit-empowered gifting within the church, where each member contributes uniquely to the common mission. Theologically, it underscores the unity of believers in Christ, transcending geographical and cultural differences for the sake of Kingdom advancement. This passage serves as a foundational example of how the early church functioned as a unified, yet diverse, organism, working together to fulfill the Great Commission.

* [1 Corinthians 12:12-27](/1_corinthians/12-12-27 "The Body of Christ")
* [Ephesians 4:11-16](/ephesians/4-11-16 "Gifts for the Body")
* [Philippians 1:3-5](/philippians/1-3-5 "Partnership in the Gospel")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The detailed listing of Paul's companions in Acts 20:4 offers profound insights for contemporary Christian ministry and personal discipleship. It reminds us that the work of God is fundamentally a team endeavor. No single leader, no matter how gifted or called, is intended to bear the full weight of ministry alone. This verse challenges us to embrace and cultivate a spirit of partnership, recognizing that the diversity of gifts, backgrounds, and perspectives within the Body of Christ is a strength, not a weakness. It calls us to actively seek out and support fellow believers, fostering environments where mutual encouragement, shared burdens, and collaborative efforts are the norm. For individuals, it prompts us to consider our own role in supporting and accompanying those God has called to lead, whether through practical assistance, prayer, or faithful presence. For churches, it serves as a blueprint for building healthy, collaborative ministries that reflect the unity and diversity of God's people working together for His glory.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways do I actively seek to partner with other believers in my ministry or service?**
* **How does the diversity of Paul's companions challenge my own understanding of unity in the church?**
* **Am I willing to "accompany" others in their calling, even when it involves personal sacrifice or inconvenience?**
* **What specific steps can my church or ministry take to foster a greater sense of collaborative effort and mutual support?**

### FAQ
**Why are these specific names listed in Acts 20:4, and what was their primary purpose for accompanying Paul?**

Answer: Luke, as a meticulous historian, lists these specific names to provide verifiable detail and authenticity to his account. The companions represent various churches from Macedonia and Asia Minor, underscoring the broad network of support for Paul's ministry and the unity of the early church. Their primary purpose was multifaceted: they served as companions for Paul, offering fellowship and practical support on a long and potentially dangerous journey; they were likely representatives of their respective churches, perhaps accompanying the significant financial collection gathered for the poor saints in Jerusalem, as hinted in [Acts 24:17](/acts/24-17 "Acts 24:17 - Paul's Return to Jerusalem with Alms") and explicitly mentioned in Paul's letters (e.g., [1 Corinthians 16:1-4](/1_corinthians/16-1-4 "1 Corinthians 16:1-4 - Collection for the Saints"), [2 Corinthians 8:1-9:15](/2_corinthians/8-1-9-15 "2 Corinthians 8-9 - The Collection for Jerusalem")). Their presence also served as a testament to the growth and collaborative spirit of the Christian movement across different regions.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Acts 20:4 primarily lists human companions, it profoundly points to Christ's ongoing mission through His body, the church. These men, diverse in origin and background, represent the unified front of believers called to participate in Christ's Great Commission ([Matthew 28:18-20](/matthew/28-18-20 "Matthew 28:18-20 - The Great Commission")). Just as Christ Himself gathered a diverse group of disciples to accompany Him in His earthly ministry ([Luke 6:12-16](/luke/6-12-16 "Luke 6:12-16 - Jesus Chooses the Twelve")), so too did His Spirit empower Paul to raise up and work alongside a multitude of co-laborers. The willingness of these individuals to accompany Paul on a perilous journey, often facing persecution and hardship, mirrors the self-sacrificial love and obedience exemplified by Christ, who "did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many" ([Mark 10:45](/mark/10-45 "Mark 10:45 - The Son of Man Came to Serve")). Ultimately, their collective journey and shared purpose were not for Paul's glory, but for the advancement of Christ's Kingdom, demonstrating that every act of service and every partnership in ministry is a participation in the ongoing work of the resurrected Lord, who continues to build His church ([Ephesians 4:15-16](/ephesians/4-15-16 "Ephesians 4:15-16 - Growing Up in Christ")).

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 19:29

And the whole city was filled with confusion: and having caught Gaius and Aristarchus, men of Macedonia, Paul's companions in travel, they rushed with one accord into the theatre.

2 Timothy 4:20

Erastus abode at Corinth: but Trophimus have I left at Miletum sick.

Ephesians 6:21

But that ye also may know my affairs, [and] how I do, Tychicus, a beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord, shall make known to you all things:

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:

2 Timothy 4:12

And Tychicus have I sent to Ephesus.

Acts 21:29

(For they had seen before with him in the city Trophimus an Ephesian, whom they supposed that Paul had brought into the temple.)

Titus 3:12

When I shall send Artemas unto thee, or Tychicus, be diligent to come unto me to Nicopolis: for I have determined there to winter.