Acts 21:1

¶ And it came to pass, that after we were gotten from them, and had launched, we came with a straight course unto Coos, and the [day] following unto Rhodes, and from thence unto Patara:

And {G1161} it came to pass {G1096}, that after {G5613} we {G2248} were gotten {G645} from {G575} them {G846}, and had launched {G321}, we came {G2064} with a straight course {G2113} unto {G1519} Coos {G2972}, and {G1161} the day following {G1836} unto {G1519} Rhodes {G4499}, and from thence {G2547} unto {G1519} Patara {G3959}:

After we had torn ourselves away from the Ephesian elders, we set sail and made a straight run to Cos. The next day we went to Rhodes, and from there to Patara.

After we had torn ourselves away from them, we sailed directly to Cos, and the next day on to Rhodes, and from there to Patara.

And when it came to pass that we were parted from them and had set sail, we came with a straight course unto Cos, and the next day unto Rhodes, and from thence unto Patara:

Commentary

Acts 21:1 marks the continuation of Paul's arduous journey back to Jerusalem at the conclusion of his third missionary journey. This verse provides specific geographical details of his sea voyage, underscoring the historical precision of Luke's narrative.

Context

This verse immediately follows Paul's poignant farewell to the Ephesian elders in Miletus, described in Acts 20:17-38. The phrase "after we were gotten from them" refers to this emotional departure. The inclusion of "we" indicates that the author, Luke, was traveling with Paul, a characteristic of the "we-passages" found in the book of Acts, which begin as early as Acts 16:10. Paul is resolutely heading towards Jerusalem, fully aware of the potential dangers awaiting him there, as he has already declared in Acts 20:22-23.

Key Themes

  • Determined Progress: Paul's journey is characterized by a clear sense of purpose. Despite the emotional goodbyes and prophetic warnings, he continues steadfastly towards his destination. This highlights his commitment to his divine mission, echoing his sentiment in Acts 20:24.
  • Divine Providence in Travel: The phrase "came with a straight course" (Greek: euthydromesamen) suggests favorable winds and an unimpeded voyage. While not explicitly miraculous, it implies God's guidance and provision for safe passage, even in the practicalities of ancient sea travel.
  • Historical Accuracy: Luke's meticulous detail in listing the specific islands (Coos, Rhodes) and the port city (Patara) provides strong evidence for the historical reliability of the New Testament accounts, offering a vivid glimpse into the travel routes of the ancient world.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "straight course," euthydromesamen, is significant. It literally means "to run straight" or "to sail straight ahead." In maritime contexts, it denotes a direct and swift voyage, often implying good fortune or favorable conditions, perhaps even divine blessing, as opposed to being held back by contrary winds or currents.

Practical Application

Acts 21:1, though a simple navigational report, offers insights for believers today:

  • Pressing On: It reminds us of the importance of perseverance in our spiritual journeys and callings, even when facing difficult farewells or uncertain futures. Like Paul, we are to remain focused on the path God has set before us.
  • God's Guidance in Details: The verse subtly points to God's involvement in the seemingly mundane aspects of life, such as travel logistics. It encourages us to trust in His providence not just for major life decisions but also for the daily practicalities.
  • The Value of Historical Record: Luke's careful documentation reinforces the factual basis of the Christian faith. Understanding the historical context helps us appreciate the real-world implications of biblical events and teachings.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 1 Thessalonians 2:17

    ¶ But we, brethren, being taken from you for a short time in presence, not in heart, endeavoured the more abundantly to see your face with great desire.

  • Luke 5:4

    Now when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught.

  • Luke 8:22

    ¶ Now it came to pass on a certain day, that he went into a ship with his disciples: and he said unto them, Let us go over unto the other side of the lake. And they launched forth.

  • Acts 16:10

    And after he had seen the vision, immediately we endeavoured to go into Macedonia, assuredly gathering that the Lord had called us for to preach the gospel unto them.

  • Acts 16:11

    Therefore loosing from Troas, we came with a straight course to Samothracia, and the next [day] to Neapolis;

  • Acts 27:2

    And entering into a ship of Adramyttium, we launched, meaning to sail by the coasts of Asia; [one] Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica, being with us.

  • Acts 20:37

    And they all wept sore, and fell on Paul's neck, and kissed him,
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