Acts 21:7

And when we had finished [our] course from Tyre, we came to Ptolemais, and saluted the brethren, and abode with them one day.

And {G1161} when we {G2249} had finished {G1274} our course {G4144} from {G575} Tyre {G5184}, we came {G2658} to {G1519} Ptolemais {G4424}, and {G2532} saluted {G782} the brethren {G80}, and abode {G3306} with {G3844} them {G846} one {G3391} day {G2250}.

When the voyage from Tzor was over, we arrived at Ptolemais. There we greeted the brothers and stayed with them overnight.

When we had finished our voyage from Tyre, we landed at Ptolemais, where we greeted the brothers and stayed with them for a day.

And when we had finished the voyage from Tyre, we arrived at Ptolemais; and we saluted the brethren, and abode with them one day.

Commentary

Acts 21:7 KJV records a brief but significant stop in the apostle Paul's final journey to Jerusalem, highlighting the practical aspects of early Christian travel and community.

Context

This verse continues the narrative of Paul's determined journey towards Jerusalem, a path he knew would bring him suffering (Acts 20:23). Having departed from Tyre, where he spent seven days with disciples who warned him not to go to Jerusalem (Acts 21:4), Paul and his companions now arrive at Ptolemais, another significant port city along the Phoenician coast. This leg of the journey demonstrates the practical realities of apostolic travel in the 1st century, relying on sea routes and connecting with established Christian communities along the way.

Key Themes

  • Christian Fellowship: The act of "saluting the brethren" and "aboding with them" underscores the vital role of fellowship and hospitality within the early church. Believers, though often geographically dispersed, shared a common bond in Christ, providing mutual support and encouragement.
  • Purposeful Travel: Paul's journey was not merely for leisure but was driven by a deep sense of mission and a desire to deliver contributions to the poor saints in Jerusalem (Romans 15:26). Every stop, even a brief one, served a purpose in his broader ministry.
  • Brief Encounters: The "one day" stay highlights that even short periods of fellowship can be meaningful and refreshing for those on a demanding spiritual journey.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "finished [our] course from Tyre" simply refers to the completion of that particular leg of their sea voyage. The word "course" (Greek: dromos) can refer to a race or a journey, and here it denotes the path taken by their ship. Paul later uses this imagery more profoundly when speaking of completing his life's work and ministry, as seen in 2 Timothy 4:7: "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith." This verse in Acts, however, is a literal description of their travel itinerary.

Practical Application

Acts 21:7, though a seemingly simple travel log, offers valuable insights for believers today. It reminds us of the enduring importance of Christian hospitality and fellowship. Even in our busy lives, taking time to connect with and encourage fellow believers, even for a short period, can be a source of strength and refreshment. Furthermore, Paul's consistent progression towards his destination, despite warnings, serves as a subtle reminder of the perseverance required in our own spiritual journeys, trusting God's leading step by step.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

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

  • Hebrews 13:24

    Salute all them that have the rule over you, and all the saints. They of Italy salute you.

  • 1 Samuel 13:10

    And it came to pass, that as soon as he had made an end of offering the burnt offering, behold, Samuel came; and Saul went out to meet him, that he might salute him.

  • Matthew 5:47

    And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more [than others]? do not even the publicans so?

  • Acts 25:13

    ¶ And after certain days king Agrippa and Bernice came unto Caesarea to salute Festus.

  • Acts 12:20

    ¶ And Herod was highly displeased with them of Tyre and Sidon: but they came with one accord to him, and, having made Blastus the king's chamberlain their friend, desired peace; because their country was nourished by the king's [country].

  • Acts 21:10

    And as we tarried [there] many days, there came down from Judaea a certain prophet, named Agabus.

  • Acts 21:19

    And when he had saluted them, he declared particularly what things God had wrought among the Gentiles by his ministry.
← Back