Acts 21:2

And finding a ship sailing over unto Phenicia, we went aboard, and set forth.

And {G2532} finding {G2147} a ship {G4143} sailing over {G1276} unto {G1519} Phenicia {G5403}, we went aboard {G1910}, and set forth {G321}.

On finding a ship that was crossing over to Phoenicia, we embarked and set sail.

Finding a ship crossing over to Phoenicia, we boarded it and set sail.

and having found a ship crossing over unto Phoenicia, we went aboard, and set sail.

Commentary

Acts 21:2 describes a practical, yet significant, moment in the Apostle Paul's journey back to Jerusalem during his third missionary trip. The verse states, "And finding a ship sailing over unto Phenicia, we went aboard, and set forth." This seemingly simple statement marks a continuation of Paul and his companions' determined progress towards a crucial destination.

Context

This verse is part of the "we" sections of the book of Acts, indicating that Luke, the author, was personally present with Paul. The journey described began after Paul's extended stay in Ephesus and his subsequent travels through Macedonia and Achaia (Acts 20:1-3). Paul was resolutely making his way to Jerusalem, driven by a strong sense of spiritual obligation, despite numerous warnings from the Holy Spirit and fellow believers about the dangers awaiting him there. Finding a ship bound for Phenicia was a necessary step in this complex ancient travel itinerary, moving from island hopping (like Coos and Rhodes in Acts 21:1) to a more direct sea route along the coast towards his ultimate destination.

Key Themes

  • Divine Direction in Mundane Travel: The ease with which a suitable ship was found can be seen as an instance of God's providence guiding Paul's mission. Even in the seemingly ordinary logistics of travel, God's hand was at work, directing the path of His servant towards His ultimate purposes in Jerusalem.
  • Perseverance in Mission: Paul's persistent journey, despite foreknowledge of suffering, underscores his unwavering commitment to the gospel message and his call. This segment of his travels highlights the arduous nature of early Christian missionary work, often involving extensive and challenging sea voyages.
  • Luke's Eyewitness Account: The use of "we" is a crucial detail, confirming Luke's presence and providing an eyewitness perspective, lending historical weight and credibility to the narrative of Paul's missionary journeys.

Linguistic Insights

The term "Phenicia" (Greek: Phoinikē, Φοινίκη) refers to the ancient coastal region north of Israel, known for its significant maritime trade and cities like Tyre and Sidon. The phrase "set forth" (Greek: anēchthēmen, ἀνήχθημεν) is a common nautical term meaning "to put to sea" or "to set sail," indicating the commencement of their voyage from the harbor.

Practical Application

Acts 21:2 reminds believers that God's plan often unfolds through very practical and everyday means. Our journeys of faith, like Paul's, involve taking concrete steps, whether it's finding a job, moving to a new place, or simply making daily decisions. Even when the future is uncertain, trusting in God's guidance through the "ships" or opportunities He provides is essential. It encourages us to be diligent in our immediate tasks, knowing that God can use them to advance His greater purposes, just as He used this ship to move Paul closer to his destiny in Jerusalem.

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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

  • Acts 15:3

    And being brought on their way by the church, they passed through Phenice and Samaria, declaring the conversion of the Gentiles: and they caused great joy unto all the brethren.

  • Acts 11:19

    ¶ Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only.

  • Acts 27:6

    And there the centurion found a ship of Alexandria sailing into Italy; and he put us therein.

  • Jonah 1:3

    But Jonah rose up to flee unto Tarshish from the presence of the LORD, and went down to Joppa; and he found a ship going to Tarshish: so he paid the fare thereof, and went down into it, to go with them unto Tarshish from the presence of the LORD.
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