Acts 27:2

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} entering {G1910} into a ship {G4143} of Adramyttium {G98}, we launched {G321}, meaning {G3195} to sail {G4126} by {G2596} the coasts {G5117} of Asia {G773}; one Aristarchus {G708}, a Macedonian {G3110} of Thessalonica {G2331}, being {G5607} with {G4862} us {G2254}.

Complete Jewish Bible

We embarked in a ship from Adramyttium which was about to sail to the ports along the coast of the province of Asia, and put out to sea, accompanied by Aristarchus, a Macedonian from Thessalonica.

Berean Standard Bible

We boarded an Adramyttian ship about to sail for ports along the coast of Asia, and we put out to sea. Aristarchus, a Macedonian from Thessalonica, was with us.

American Standard Version

And embarking in a ship of Adramyttium, which was about to sail unto the places on the coast of Asia, we put to sea, Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica, being with us.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 27:2 initiates the detailed account of Paul's arduous sea journey from Caesarea to Rome, undertaken under Roman custody following his appeal to Caesar. This verse specifically describes the initial embarkation onto a ship from Adramyttium, the intended coastal route along Asia Minor, and introduces Aristarchus, a faithful Macedonian companion who accompanied Paul on this significant, divinely orchestrated voyage.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Acts 27:2 marks the precise beginning of the dramatic sea voyage that dominates the remainder of the book of Acts. It follows directly from Paul's appeal to Caesar and the decision by Festus to send him to Rome, as recounted in [Acts 25:11-12](/acts/25-11-12 "Paul Appeals to Caesar"). The preceding verses in [Acts 27:1](/acts/27-1 "Paul's Journey to Rome Begins") establish that Paul and other prisoners were handed over to a centurion named Julius, setting the stage for this journey. The narrative that unfolds from this verse through [Acts 28:16](/acts/28-16 "Paul Arrives in Rome") is a masterclass in ancient travelogue, detailing the perils of sea travel, the resilience of Paul, and the sovereign hand of God guiding the apostle to Rome despite human plans and natural disasters. This verse, therefore, is the narrative launch point for one of the most vivid and suspenseful chapters in the New Testament.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Adramyttium was a prominent port city in the Roman province of Asia, located on the coast of Mysia. It served as a vital hub for maritime trade and passenger transport across the Aegean Sea. In the Roman Empire, sea travel was the most efficient means of long-distance transportation, especially for official business like prisoner transfer. Ships typically sailed during the "navigable season" (roughly April to October), avoiding the dangerous winter months. Coastal sailing, as initially intended by this ship "meaning to sail by the coasts of Asia," was a common practice. It allowed vessels to stay within sight of land, providing safer navigation, easier access to fresh water and provisions, and quicker refuge in case of storms. This preference for coastal routes highlights the practical considerations of ancient mariners, even as divine providence would later redirect their course.
* **Key Themes:** This verse introduces several key themes that will be developed throughout Paul's journey to Rome. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Sovereignty over Human Plans**. The phrase "meaning to sail by the coasts of Asia" (Acts 27:2) highlights the initial human intention, which would soon be dramatically overridden by severe weather and God's ultimate purpose for Paul to reach Rome, as promised in [Acts 23:11](/acts/23-11 "The Lord Stands with Paul"). Secondly, the presence of Aristarchus emphasizes the theme of **Faithful Companionship and Support in Ministry**. Even as a prisoner, Paul was not abandoned, demonstrating the strong bonds of Christian fellowship and loyalty. Finally, the journey itself, though perilous, serves as a powerful metaphor for the **Unstoppable Advance of the Gospel**. Despite imprisonment and hardship, Paul is being divinely transported to the heart of the Roman Empire, fulfilling the Great Commission to preach the gospel to the ends of the earth, a mission that echoes Christ's own commissioning in [Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "The Great Commission").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **entering (Greek, _epibaínō'_):** This verb, derived from "upon" and "to walk," signifies the act of stepping onto or embarking. In this context, it specifically means "to take ship." It conveys the decisive action of boarding the vessel, marking the physical commencement of the journey. The use of this word emphasizes the transition from land to sea, initiating the next phase of Paul's mission.
* **meaning (Greek, _méllō'_):** This verb denotes intention, being about to do something, or having a purpose. It indicates a planned or expected future action. Here, it highlights the human design for the voyage – the ship's crew and passengers *intended* to sail a particular route. This word sets up a contrast with the subsequent events, where divine intervention and natural forces would dramatically alter their intended course, underscoring the theme of God's ultimate control.
* **with (Greek, _sýn'_):** This primary preposition signifies union, association, or companionship, implying a closer bond than other prepositions like *metá*. Its use here emphasizes the intimate presence and solidarity of Aristarchus with Paul. It suggests that Aristarchus was not merely a fellow passenger but a dedicated companion sharing in Paul's circumstances, even those of imprisonment and danger.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And entering into a ship of Adramyttium":** This clause describes the specific vessel and the action of boarding it. The ship originated from Adramyttium, a port city in Asia Minor, indicating its likely trade route and destination. The act of "entering" signifies the official start of the sea leg of Paul's journey, moving him from the confines of Caesarean imprisonment onto a new, albeit still captive, mode of transport.
* **"we launched, meaning to sail by the coasts of Asia":** This segment details the departure and the initial navigational plan. "We launched" includes Luke, the author, indicating his presence on this voyage. The phrase "meaning to sail by the coasts of Asia" reveals the human intention: to follow a safer, more common route along the coastline of Asia Minor. This highlights the practical considerations of ancient seafaring, aiming for security and accessibility to land, before the unexpected storms and divine redirection.
* **"one Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica, being with us":** This final clause introduces a specific individual accompanying Paul. Aristarchus, identified by his origin (Macedonian) and hometown (Thessalonica), is presented as a loyal companion. His presence "with us" (Paul and Luke) underscores the theme of faithful fellowship and support, even in challenging circumstances, emphasizing that Paul was not alone in his imprisonment and perilous journey.

#### Literary Devices
Luke's narrative in Acts 27:2 employs several literary devices. **Precise Detail** is evident in the naming of the ship's origin ("Adramyttium"), the intended route ("by the coasts of Asia"), and the specific companion ("Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica"). This meticulous reporting lends historical credibility and vividness to the account, characteristic of Luke's writing. The phrase "meaning to sail by the coasts of Asia" serves as a subtle use of **Foreshadowing**. It establishes a human plan that the reader, especially one familiar with the subsequent events of the chapter, knows will be dramatically thwarted, thereby highlighting the theme of divine sovereignty over human intentions. Finally, the inclusion of Aristarchus's presence is a form of **Characterization**, emphasizing his loyalty and dedication to Paul, setting him apart as a faithful companion who shares in the apostle's trials.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 27:2, though seemingly a simple logistical detail, subtly introduces profound theological themes that resonate throughout the biblical narrative. It speaks to the sovereignty of God over human plans and the unexpected ways He directs His servants, even through adversity. The initial human intention to sail a safe coastal route is a stark contrast to the tumultuous journey that follows, ultimately demonstrating that God's purposes prevail over all human designs and natural forces. Furthermore, the presence of Aristarchus highlights the divine provision of companionship and the importance of faithful solidarity within the body of Christ, even in trials. This journey, initiated under duress, is not merely a prisoner transfer but a divinely ordained mission to bring the Gospel to the heart of the Roman Empire, fulfilling God's promise to Paul.

* [Proverbs 16:9](/proverbs/16-9 "The Lord Directs Our Steps")
* [Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "God Works for Good in All Things")
* [Philippians 4:14](/philippians/4-14 "Partnership in the Gospel")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 27:2 offers a potent reminder that even when we embark on journeys or enter seasons of life under difficult or involuntary circumstances, God's sovereign hand is at work. Paul was a prisoner, yet his journey was not aimless; it was purposeful, leading him to Rome to bear witness to Christ. This verse encourages us to recognize that our "intended routes" – our plans, expectations, and preferred paths – may not always align with God's. Often, it is through the unexpected detours, the storms, and the seemingly adverse circumstances that God truly accomplishes His greatest work, redirecting us toward His perfect will. The presence of Aristarchus also challenges us to consider who our faithful companions are in our own journeys, and whether we are willing to be that steadfast support for others, even when it means sharing in their hardships. Our faithfulness, like Aristarchus's, can be a profound witness to the power of Christian fellowship.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How have your "intended routes" in life been altered by unexpected circumstances, and how did God's purpose become evident through those changes?**
* **Who are the "Aristarchuses" in your life – those faithful companions who stand with you in difficult times? How can you be that kind of companion for someone else?**
* **In what ways can you discern God's sovereign hand at work, even when your current circumstances feel restrictive or beyond your control?**

### FAQ
**Who was Aristarchus, and why was he with Paul on this journey?**

Answer: Aristarchus was a faithful companion and fellow laborer with the Apostle Paul, identified in this verse as "a Macedonian of Thessalonica." He had previously accompanied Paul during the riot in Ephesus ([Acts 19:29](/acts/19-29 "Aristarchus and Gaius in the Ephesus Riot")) and is also mentioned in Paul's epistles as a fellow prisoner ([Colossians 4:10](/colossians/4-10 "Aristarchus, Paul's Fellow Prisoner")) and a fellow worker ([Philemon 1:24](/philemon/1-24 "Aristarchus, Mark, and Demas")). His presence on this journey to Rome, despite Paul being a prisoner, speaks volumes about his unwavering loyalty and dedication to Paul and the Gospel. It's likely he chose to accompany Paul out of personal devotion and a desire to continue ministering alongside him, even in chains, demonstrating the deep bonds of Christian fellowship.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 27:2, while describing a seemingly mundane detail of travel, subtly points to the broader Christ-centered narrative of God's redemptive plan. Paul's journey to Rome, initiated here, is not just a prisoner's transport but a divinely orchestrated mission to carry the gospel to the heart of the Gentile world, echoing Christ's commission to His disciples to be His witnesses "to the end of the earth" ([Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "The Great Commission")). Just as Christ willingly submitted to the Father's plan, even to the point of crucifixion, Paul, though a prisoner, is willingly participating in God's sovereign will, demonstrating a life yielded to Christ's mission. The "meaning to sail by the coasts of Asia" highlights human plans, which are ultimately superseded by God's ultimate purpose, much like how human wisdom and plans are often confounded by the "foolishness" of God's salvation through the cross of Christ ([1 Corinthians 1:25](/1_corinthians/1-25 "The Foolishness of God is Wiser")). The steadfast companionship of Aristarchus also mirrors the faithfulness of Christ, who promises never to leave or forsake His followers ([Hebrews 13:5](/hebrews/13-5 "God Will Never Leave Us")). Ultimately, this journey, fraught with peril but divinely protected, foreshadows the unstoppable advance of the Kingdom of God, a kingdom established and continually expanded through the victorious work of Christ, the true King and Lord of all creation ([Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9-11 "Christ's Exaltation")).

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.

Philemon 1:24

Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas, my fellowlabourers.

Colossians 4:10

Aristarchus my fellowprisoner saluteth you, and Marcus, sister's son to Barnabas, (touching whom ye received commandments: if he come unto you, receive him;)

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 21:5

And when we had accomplished those days, we departed and went our way; and they all brought us on our way, with wives and children, till [we were] out of the city: and we kneeled down on the shore, and prayed.

Acts 19:19

Many of them also which used curious arts brought their books together, and burned them before all [men]: and they counted the price of them, and found [it] fifty thousand [pieces] of silver.

Acts 16:9

And a vision appeared to Paul in the night; There stood a man of Macedonia, and prayed him, saying, Come over into Macedonia, and help us.