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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Acts 21:1–7. His three-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
We may observe here,
I.How much ado Paul had to get clear from Ephesus, intimated in the first words of the chapter, after we had gotten from them, that is, were drawn from them as by violence. It was a force put upon both sides; Paul was loth to leave them, and they were loth to part with him, and yet there was no remedy, but so it must be. When good people are taken away by death, they are, as it were, gotten from their friends here below, who struggled hard to have detained them if possible.
II.What a prosperous voyage they had thence.
Without any difficulty, they came with a straight course, by direct sailing, to Coos, a famous Grecian island, - the next day to Rhodes, talked of for the Colossus there, - thence to Patara, a famous port, the metropolis of Lycia (Act 21:1); here they very happily found a ship sailing over into Phenicia, the very course they were steering, Act 21:2. Providence must be acknowledged when things happen thus opportunely, and we are favoured by some little circumstances that contribute to the expediting of our affairs; and we must say, It is God that maketh our way perfect. This ship that was bound for Phenicia (that is, Tyre) they took the convenience of, went on board, and set sail for Tyre. In this voyage they discovered Cyprus, the island that Barnabas was of, and which he took care of, and therefore Paul did not visit it, but we left it on the left hand (Act 21:3), sailed upon the coast of Syria, and at length landed at Tyre, that celebrated mart of the nations, so it had been, but was now reduced; yet something of a trade it had still, for there the ship was to unlade her burden, and did so.
III.The halt that Paul made at Tyre; when he had arrived there, he was upon the coast of the land of Israel, and found now that he could compass the remainder of his journey within the time he had fixed.
1.At Tyre he found disciples, some that had embraced the gospel, and professed the Christian faith. Observe, Wherever Paul came, he enquired what disciples were there, found them out, and associated with them; for we know what is the usage with birds of a feather. When Christ was upon earth, though he went sometimes into the coast of Tyre, yet he never went thither to preach the gospel there; nor did he think fit to afford to Tyre and Sidon the advantages which Chorazin and Bethsaida had, though he knew that if they had had them they would have made a better improvement of them, Luk 10:13, Luk 10:14. But, after the enlarging of the gospel-commission, Christ was preached at Tyre, and had disciples there; and to this, some think, that prophecy concerning Tyre had reference (Isa 23:18), Her merchandise and her hire shall be holiness to the Lord.
2.Paul, finding those disciples at Tyre, tarried there seven days, they urging him to stay with them as long as he could. He staid seven days at Troas (Act 20:6), and here so many days at Tyre, that he might be sure to spend one Lord's day with them, and so might have an opportunity of preaching publicly among them; for it is the desire of good men to do good wherever they come, and where we find disciples we may either benefit them or be benefited by them.
3.The disciples at Tyre were endowed with such gifts that they could by the Spirit foretel the troubles Paul would meet with at Jerusalem; for the Holy Ghost witnessed it in every city, Act 20:23. Being a thing that would be so much talked of when it came to pass, God saw fit to have it much prophesied of before, that people's faith, instead of being offended, might be confirmed. And withal they were endowed with such graces that foreseeing his troubles, out of love to him and concern for the church, especially the churches of the Gentiles, that could ill spare him, they begged of him that he would not go up to Jerusalem, for they hoped the decree was conditional: If he go up, he will come into trouble there; as the prediction to David that the men of Keilah will deliver him up (that is, if he venture himself with them); and therefore they said to him, by the Spirit, that he should not go up, because they concluded it would be most for the glory of God that he should continue at liberty; and it was not at all their fault to think so, and consequently to dissuade him; but it was their mistake, for his trial would be for the glory of God and the furtherance of the gospel, and he knew it; and the importunity that was used with him, to dissuade him from it, renders his pious and truly heroic resolution the more illustrious.
4.The disciples of Tyre, though they were none of Paul's converts, yet showed a very great respect to Paul, whose usefulness in the church they had heard so much of when he departed from Tyre. Though they had had but seven days' acquaintance with him, yet, as if he had been some great man, they all came together, with their wives and children, solemnly to take leave of him, to beg his blessing, and to bring him as far on his way as the sea would permit them. Note,
(1.)We should pay respect, not only to our own ministers, that are over us in the Lord, and admonish us, and, for their work's sake among us, esteem them highly in love, but we must, as there is occasion, testify our love and respect to all the faithful ministers of Christ, both for his sake whose ministers they are, and for their work's sake among others.
(2.)We must, in a particular manner, honour those whom God hath singularly honoured, by making them eminently useful in their generation.
(3.)It is good to train up children in a respect to good people and good ministers. This was particularly remarkable at Tyre, which we have not met with any where else, that they brought their wives and children to attend Paul, to do him the more honour and to receive benefit by his instructions and prayers; and as angry notice was taken of the children of the idolaters of Bethel, that mocked a prophet, so, no doubt, gracious notice was taken of the children of the disciples at Tyre, that honoured an apostle, as Christ accepted the hosannas of the little children.
(4.)We should be good husbands of our opportunities, and make the utmost we can of them for the good of our souls. They brought Paul on his way, that they might have so much the more of his company and his prayers. Some refer us to Psa 45:12, as a prediction of this, The daughter of Tyre shall be there with a gift; for it is probable that they made some presents to Paul at parting, as usual to our friends that are going to sea, Act 28:10.
5.They parted with prayer, as Paul and the Ephesians elders had done, ch. 20:36. Thus Paul has taught us by example, as well as rule, to pray always, to pray without ceasing. We kneeled down on the shore and prayed. Paul prayed for himself, prayed for them, prayed for all the churches; as he was much in prayer so he was mighty in prayer. They prayed upon the shore, that their last farewell might be sanctified and sweetened with prayer. Those that are going to sea should, when they quit the shore, commit themselves to God by prayer, and put themselves under his protection, as those that hope, even when they leave the terra firma, to find firm footing for their faith in the providence and promise of God. They kneeled down on the shore, though we may suppose it either stony or dirty, and there prayed. Paul would that men should pray every where, and so he did himself; and, where he lifted up his prayer, he bowed his knees. Mr. George Herbert says, Kneeling never spoiled silk stockings.
6.They parted at last (Act 21:6): When we had taken our leave one of another, with the most affectionate embraces and expressions of love and grief, we took ship to be gone, and they returned home again, each complaining that this is a parting world. Observe how they disposed of themselves: "We, that had a journey before us, took ship, thankful that we had a ship to carry us; and those, who had no occasions to call them abroad returned home again, thankful that they had a home to go to." Rejoice Zebulun in thy going out, and Issachar in thy tents. Paul left his blessing behind him with those that returned home, and those that staid sent their prayers after those that went to sea.
IV.Their arrival at Ptolemais, which was not far from Tyre (Act 21:27):
We came to Ptolemais, which some think is the same place with Accho, which we find in the tribe of Asher, Jdg 1:31. Paul begged leave to go ashore there, to salute the brethren, to enquire of their state, and to testify his good will to them; though he could not stay long with them, yet he would not pass by them without paying his respects to them, and he abode with them one day, perhaps it was a Lord's day; better a short stay than no visit.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
One surviving comment on this verse from the historical church.
"And finding a ship sailing over unto Phenicia, we went aboard, and set forth. Now when we had discovered Cyprus, we left it on the left hand, and sailed into Syria, and landed at Tyre." He came to Lycia, and having left Cyprus, he sailed down to Tyre. Possibly that ship in which they had come was making a stay there: wherefore they shifted to another, and not having found one going to Caesarea, but finding this for Phenice, they embarked in it and pursued their voyage, having left Cyprus also and Syria: but the expression, "having left it on the left hand," is not said simply in that meaning, but that they made speed not to get to Syria either.
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Summary
Acts 21:2 chronicles a seemingly ordinary yet divinely orchestrated moment in Paul's third missionary journey, detailing the finding of a ship bound for Phenicia, which allowed Paul and his companions to continue their resolute progress towards Jerusalem. This brief verse underscores the mundane logistics of apostolic travel, revealing how God's providence guides His servants even in the practical details of their mission, moving them steadily towards His ultimate purposes despite impending dangers.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is deeply embedded within the "we" sections of Acts, signaling Luke's personal presence and eyewitness account of Paul's journey. Following Paul's extensive ministry in Ephesus and his subsequent travels through Macedonia and Achaia, as detailed in Acts 20:1-6, the narrative shifts to his determined return to Jerusalem. Paul is driven by a profound spiritual compulsion, despite numerous prophetic warnings from the Holy Spirit and fellow believers concerning the suffering and imprisonment awaiting him. The immediate preceding verse, Acts 21:1, describes their departure from Patara, having sailed past Coos and Rhodes. Finding a ship directly sailing to Phenicia was a crucial and efficient step in this complex ancient itinerary, facilitating their movement from island-hopping to a more direct coastal route towards their ultimate destination in Judea.
Historical & Cultural Context
Ancient maritime travel was often dictated by prevailing winds, available ships, and established trade routes. Phenicia (modern-day Lebanon) was a renowned coastal region north of Israel, famous for its powerful maritime cities like Tyre and Sidon, which served as vital hubs for trade and shipping across the Mediterranean. Ships typically sailed along coastlines, stopping at various ports, rather than undertaking extensive open-sea voyages, making the discovery of a ship "sailing over unto Phenicia" a fortunate and strategic find for Paul's party. This region was also significant due to its long history of interaction with Israel and its early Christian communities, established through missionary efforts, including Paul's own. The journey described reflects the common, yet often perilous, methods of long-distance travel in the Roman Empire, relying on merchant vessels and the availability of suitable passage.
Key Themes
The seemingly simple act of finding a ship in Acts 21:2 contributes to several overarching themes in Acts. Firstly, it highlights Divine Direction in Mundane Travel. The ease with which a suitable vessel was found can be interpreted as an instance of God's sovereign providence, guiding Paul's mission even through the ordinary logistics of travel. This echoes the broader theme of God's active involvement in the apostolic journeys. Secondly, it underscores Perseverance in Mission. Despite the foreknowledge of suffering and the arduous nature of ancient travel, Paul's persistent journey exemplifies his unwavering commitment to the gospel and his divine calling. This relentless pursuit of his mission, even in the face of adversity, is a recurring motif throughout Paul's ministry. Lastly, the verse reinforces Luke's Eyewitness Account. The consistent use of the "we" pronoun, which began earlier in Acts 16:10, lends historical authenticity and credibility to the narrative, affirming Luke's personal presence and detailed observation of these events, thereby grounding the theological narrative in verifiable historical experience.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This verb signifies "to find, get, obtain, or perceive." In this context, it implies the successful discovery of a suitable vessel, not by chance, but perhaps by divine arrangement or diligent search. The ease of "finding" a ship sailing to their desired general direction suggests a providential opening for their journey's continuation.
Derived from "to walk upon," this term specifically means "to mount, ascend, embark, or arrive." It denotes the physical act of boarding the ship, signifying the immediate and decisive action taken by Paul and his companions upon locating the vessel. This verb highlights the practical step of committing to the next leg of their journey.
While the Strong's note indicates a gap in the provided data for this specific range, the verb anágō (from ana "up" and agō "to lead") commonly means "to lead up, bring up," and in a nautical context, "to put to sea" or "to set sail" by weighing anchor. It marks the commencement of their voyage, indicating the ship's departure from the harbor.
Verse Breakdown
"And finding a ship sailing over unto Phenicia"
This clause describes the successful identification of a vessel that would facilitate their journey. The phrase "sailing over unto Phenicia" indicates the ship's intended destination or route, which aligned with Paul's general direction towards Jerusalem. This detail is significant as it implies a providential alignment of their travel needs with an available means of transport, avoiding potentially lengthy waits or detours. Phenicia, a known maritime region, would have been a common destination for such vessels.
"we went aboard, and set forth"
This part of the verse details the immediate and decisive action taken by Paul and his companions. "We went aboard" signifies their physical embarkation, indicating their commitment to this particular ship and route. "And set forth" (or "set sail") denotes the ship's departure from the port, marking the official commencement of this leg of their journey. The use of "we" continues to emphasize Luke's eyewitness presence and participation in these events, lending a sense of immediacy and authenticity to the narrative.
Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs Narrative Progression, a fundamental literary technique in historical accounts. It efficiently moves the plot forward, detailing the practical steps of Paul's journey. The concise phrasing, "And finding... we went aboard, and set forth," exemplifies this forward momentum, focusing on action and movement. Furthermore, there is an underlying sense of Verisimilitude, as the description of finding a ship and setting sail is a common and realistic detail of ancient travel, grounding the extraordinary events of Paul's ministry in relatable, everyday experiences. While not explicitly stated, the ease of finding the ship subtly hints at Divine Providence, suggesting that even in the mundane logistics of travel, God's hand was guiding Paul's path, ensuring the necessary means were available for his mission to continue towards its divinely appointed conclusion.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Acts 21:2, though brief, offers profound theological insights into God's meticulous providence and the nature of faithful obedience. It illustrates that God's grand redemptive plan often unfolds not through miraculous interventions alone, but also through the seemingly ordinary and practical details of life. The finding of a ship, the act of boarding, and the setting forth are all mundane human actions, yet within the larger narrative of Paul's divinely appointed journey to Jerusalem, they become integral steps in God's sovereign will. This highlights that God is active in every aspect of our lives, orchestrating circumstances, providing resources, and opening pathways, even when we are simply "finding a ship." It encourages believers to trust in God's guidance not just in the "big" decisions, but in the daily, practical steps of their walk of faith, understanding that every movement can be part of His larger purpose.
Reflection and Application
Acts 21:2 serves as a powerful reminder that our spiritual journeys, much like Paul's physical journey, are often a blend of divine guidance and human action. It encourages us to recognize God's hand in the seemingly ordinary logistics of our lives. Just as Paul found a ship that facilitated his next step towards Jerusalem, we too can trust that God provides the "ships" – the opportunities, resources, and connections – necessary for us to advance in His purposes. This verse calls us to be attentive to the practical provisions God makes, to act decisively when opportunities arise, and to persevere in our calling even when the path ahead is uncertain or fraught with potential difficulties. Our faithfulness is often demonstrated in our willingness to take the next practical step, trusting that God will direct our course and use our mundane efforts for His extraordinary ends.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why is such a seemingly minor detail like finding a ship included in the biblical narrative?
The inclusion of such practical details, like finding a ship in Acts 21:2, serves several crucial purposes. Firstly, it lends historical authenticity and verisimilitude to the account, grounding the extraordinary supernatural events in the mundane realities of ancient travel. Luke, as an eyewitness, records these details to provide a comprehensive and believable narrative. Secondly, it subtly highlights divine providence. While not a miracle, the timely availability of a suitable ship for Paul's precise destination can be seen as God's quiet orchestration of circumstances, ensuring His servant's mission continues unimpeded. This demonstrates that God is at work in every aspect of life, not just the spectacular. Thirdly, it emphasizes the human effort and practical diligence required in ministry. Even apostles, guided by the Spirit, had to navigate logistical challenges, reminding us that faith and action go hand-in-hand. These seemingly minor details contribute to the rich tapestry of the biblical narrative, revealing God's involvement in the everyday and the extraordinary alike.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Acts 21:2, though detailing a practical step in Paul's journey, resonates with profound Christ-centered fulfillment. Paul's determined progress towards Jerusalem, despite warnings of suffering, mirrors the resolute journey of Jesus Himself. Just as Paul "set forth" towards a destination where he knew hardship awaited, Jesus "set his face to go to Jerusalem" (Luke 9:51), fully aware of the cross that awaited Him. The "finding of a ship" for Paul's journey can be seen as a type of divine provision, ensuring the pathway to His ultimate purpose. In a greater sense, Christ is the ultimate "way" and "path" (John 14:6) provided by God for humanity's journey to reconciliation. His life, culminating in His sacrificial death and glorious resurrection, is the ultimate "setting forth" of God's redemptive plan, fulfilling all prophecies and bringing salvation. Paul's journey to Jerusalem, a city of both prophetic significance and ultimate suffering for Christ, foreshadows the suffering that believers, united with Christ, will also face, yet always with the assurance that God's sovereign hand is guiding them towards their ultimate, glorious destination in the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21:1-4).