Acts 28:15

KJV

And from thence, when the brethren heard of us, they came to meet us as far as Appii forum, and The three taverns: whom when Paul saw, he thanked God, and took courage.

KJV (with Strong's)

And from thence {G2547}, when the brethren {G80} heard {G191} of {G4012} us {G2257}, they came {G1831} to meet {G529}{G1519} us {G2254} as far as {G891} Appii {G675} forum {G5410}, and {G2532} The three {G5140} taverns {G4999}: whom {G3739} when Paul {G3972} saw {G1492}, he thanked {G2168} God {G2316}, and took {G2983} courage {G2294}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The brothers there had heard about us and came as far as Appian Market and Three Inns to meet us. When Sha’ul saw them, he thanked God and took courage.

Berean Standard Bible

The brothers there had heard about us and traveled as far as the Forum of Appius and the Three Taverns to meet us. When Paul saw them, he was encouraged and gave thanks to God.

American Standard Version

And from thence the brethren, when they heard of us, came to meet us as far as The Market of Appius and The Three Taverns; whom when Paul saw, he thanked God, and took courage.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 28:15 captures a pivotal moment in Paul's arduous journey to Rome, where, despite enduring a shipwreck and numerous trials, he is profoundly encouraged by the unexpected and loving reception from fellow believers who traveled to meet him. This encounter not only renews his spirit and resolve but also serves as a powerful testament to the sustaining power of Christian fellowship and God's faithfulness in guiding His servant toward His divine purpose in the heart of the Roman Empire.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows Paul's arrival at Puteoli, a port city on the west coast of Italy, as detailed in [Acts 28:13-14](/acts/28-13-14 "Acts 28:13-14 - Paul's Arrival at Puteoli"). Having survived a perilous shipwreck off the coast of Malta (narrated in vivid detail in [Acts 27](/acts/27 "Acts 27 - Paul's Shipwreck")), Paul and his companions spent three days at Puteoli. The narrative in Acts 28 then shifts its focus to Paul's final approach to Rome. Verse 15 marks the culmination of the journey's most dangerous phase and introduces a moment of profound spiritual and emotional relief for the apostle before he faces the challenges of imprisonment and ministry in the capital. It sets the stage for Paul's initial interactions with the Jewish leaders and his subsequent ministry in Rome, as described in [Acts 28:16-31](/acts/28-16-31 "Acts 28:16-31 - Paul in Rome").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul's journey to Rome was along the famous Appian Way (Via Appia), one of the earliest and most strategically important Roman roads, connecting Rome to Brindisi (Brundisium) on the southeast coast. This road was a vital artery for trade, military movements, and communication. "Appii forum" (Forum of Appius), approximately 43 miles southeast of Rome, was a bustling market town and a common staging post for travelers, often noted for its inns and canal. "The three taverns" (Tres Tabernae), about 33 miles from Rome, was another well-known resting point. For Roman believers to travel such distances to meet Paul demonstrates significant dedication and the strong, interconnected nature of early Christian communities. Travel by foot or slow carriage over such distances was arduous, highlighting their commitment to welcoming a revered, though perhaps personally unknown, apostle.
* **Key Themes:** The encounter in [Acts 28:15](/acts/28-15 "Acts 28:15 - Paul Meets Roman Believers") contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Acts. Firstly, it underscores the **power and importance of Christian fellowship and mutual encouragement**. The proactive journey of the Roman believers to meet Paul, a weary and trial-worn apostle, exemplifies the practical outworking of Christian love and solidarity, mirroring the call for believers to bear one another's burdens as seen in [Galatians 6:2](/galatians/6-2 "Galatians 6:2 - Bearing Burdens"). Secondly, it highlights **God's unwavering faithfulness in fulfilling His purposes**, even amidst immense adversity. Despite assassination plots, a tumultuous sea voyage, and a shipwreck, God consistently guided Paul to Rome, fulfilling His earlier promise that Paul would bear witness in the capital (cf. [Acts 23:11](/acts/23-11 "Acts 23:11 - God's Promise to Paul")). This moment of encouragement was a divine provision, demonstrating that God often uses His people as instruments of His grace and strength, enabling His servants to persevere in their calling.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **saw (Greek, _eídō'_):** From G1492, a primary verb meaning "to see (literally or figuratively); by implication, (in the perfect tense only) to know." In this context, Paul's act of "seeing" these brethren is more than mere visual perception; it implies a profound recognition and understanding of their presence as a divine provision. It's the moment of full awareness that these were his brothers and sisters in Christ, a tangible sign of God's care.
* **thanked (Greek, _eucharistéō'_):** From G2168, meaning "to be grateful, i.e. (actively) to express gratitude (towards); specially, to say grace at a meal." Paul's immediate response of thanking God indicates a deep, heartfelt acknowledgment that this encounter was not coincidental but a direct blessing from God. It highlights his consistent posture of gratitude, even after enduring extreme hardship.
* **courage (Greek, _thársos'_):** From G2294, meaning "boldness (subjectively)." This word signifies a profound inner strengthening or emboldening. Paul, though spiritually resilient, was humanly exhausted and facing an uncertain future in Rome. The sight of the believers infused him with renewed boldness and resolve, enabling him to face the impending challenges with a fresh spirit of confidence and trust in God.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And from thence, when the brethren heard of us, they came to meet us as far as Appii forum, and The three taverns":** This clause details the remarkable initiative of the Roman Christian community. "From thence" refers to Puteoli, where Paul had disembarked. News of his arrival, likely spread by fellow travelers or merchants, reached the believers in Rome. Their response was not passive; they actively "came to meet" Paul. The mention of "Appii forum" and "The three taverns" specifies the considerable distances they traveled along the Appian Way, demonstrating their eagerness and commitment to welcome the apostle. This act underscores the strong bonds of fellowship and mutual care within the early church.
* **"whom when Paul saw, he thanked God, and took courage":** This second clause reveals Paul's deeply personal and spiritual reaction to the encounter. The sight of these believers, many of whom he had never met, was a profound source of comfort and encouragement. His immediate response was to "thank God," acknowledging divine providence in orchestrating this meeting. Furthermore, he "took courage," indicating a significant renewal of his inner strength and resolve. This was not merely a fleeting emotion but a spiritual bolstering that prepared him for the demanding ministry and imprisonment awaiting him in Rome.

#### Literary Devices
The verse effectively employs **Narrative Progression** by marking a significant transition in Paul's journey, moving from the perils of the sea to the embrace of the Christian community on land, signaling his imminent arrival in Rome. **Symbolism** is also present: the journey of the Roman believers to meet Paul symbolizes the proactive nature of Christian love and fellowship, reaching out to those in need. Their presence at "Appii forum" and "The three taverns"—places of public transit and rest—underscores the idea that Christian community is found not just in formal gatherings but also in the everyday pathways of life. Finally, **Juxtaposition** is subtly used, contrasting Paul's recent trials (shipwreck, dangers) with the immediate comfort and encouragement he receives, highlighting God's provision and the restorative power of fellowship after suffering.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 28:15 powerfully illustrates the theological truth that God often uses His people as instruments of His grace and encouragement. Paul, though an apostle of immense spiritual fortitude, was still human and susceptible to weariness and discouragement after his harrowing journey. The timely appearance of the Roman believers was a tangible expression of God's care, reminding Paul that he was not alone and that his mission was supported by a wider body of believers. This encounter underscores the vital role of community in sustaining faith and perseverance, demonstrating that mutual encouragement is a divine provision for the journey of discipleship. It reflects the New Testament emphasis on the body of Christ, where each member contributes to the strength and well-being of the whole.

* [Romans 1:11-12](/romans/1-11-12 "Romans 1:11-12 - Paul's Desire for Mutual Encouragement")
* [Hebrews 10:24-25](/hebrews/10-24-25 "Hebrews 10:24-25 - Exhortation to Fellowship")
* [1 Thessalonians 5:11](/1_thessalonians/5-11 "1 Thessalonians 5:11 - Encourage One Another")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 28:15 provides a timeless blueprint for Christian living, urging believers to actively embody the spirit of the Roman brethren. In a world often marked by isolation and hardship, the proactive love and solidarity demonstrated by these early Christians serve as a powerful reminder of our call to be sources of encouragement and support for one another. Just as Paul, a spiritual giant, found his strength renewed through the presence of fellow believers, so too do we all need the tangible expression of Christ's love through His body. This verse challenges us to look beyond our immediate circles, to extend hospitality, to offer a listening ear, or to simply be present for those who are weary, struggling, or transitioning. It underscores the profound truth that our faith journey is not meant to be walked alone, and that God often chooses to minister His strength and comfort through the hands and hearts of His people. By valuing and nurturing Christian fellowship, we not only uplift others but also find our own faith deepened and our courage renewed for the challenges ahead.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How can I be a more proactive source of encouragement and support for fellow believers in my community, especially those who may be facing difficult journeys or transitions?**
* **In what specific ways do I currently experience or contribute to the mutual encouragement and strengthening found within Christian fellowship?**
* **When I face weariness or discouragement, do I remember that God often provides strength through the kindness and presence of His people? How can I better receive such encouragement?**

### FAQ
**Why did the Roman brethren travel so far to meet Paul, given that they had never met him?**

Answer: The Roman brethren's journey to meet Paul, traveling approximately 33 to 43 miles from Rome to "Appii forum" and "The three taverns," demonstrates the profound sense of unity and spiritual connection within the early Christian community. Although many may not have met Paul personally, his reputation as a leading apostle, his extensive missionary journeys, and his profound theological teachings (especially known through his Letter to the Romans, which they had likely received and studied) would have made him a highly revered figure. News of his impending arrival, especially after surviving a shipwreck, would have stirred a deep desire to welcome and honor him. Their act was a tangible expression of fellowship, solidarity, and love for a fellow servant of Christ, recognizing his immense contributions to the spread of the Gospel and the building up of the church. It highlights the strong bonds that transcended personal acquaintance, rooted in their shared faith in Jesus Christ.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 28:15, while focusing on Paul's human experience of encouragement, ultimately points to the greater Christ-centered reality of divine provision and the sustaining power of the Holy Spirit. The brethren's loving welcome, which brought renewed courage to Paul, is a beautiful illustration of how Christ ministers to His people through His body, the Church. Just as Jesus Himself was strengthened by His Father in moments of intense trial (cf. [Luke 22:43](/luke/22-43 "Luke 22:43 - Angel Strengthens Jesus")), so too does He empower and encourage His followers through the presence and love of fellow believers. This encounter foreshadows the ultimate comfort and strength found in Christ, who promises never to leave or forsake His own (cf. [Hebrews 13:5](/hebrews/13-5 "Hebrews 13:5 - God's Promise of Presence")). The courage Paul received was not merely human resolve but a divine infusion, mediated through human instruments, enabling him to continue bearing witness to the Kingdom of God in Rome (cf. [Acts 28:31](/acts/28-31 "Acts 28:31 - Paul Preaching in Rome")). Thus, the scene becomes a testament to Christ's ongoing work in His Church, building up and empowering His servants for the fulfillment of His global mission until His glorious return (cf. [Matthew 28:19-20](/matthew/28-19-20 "Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission")).

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

Hebrews 13:3

Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; [and] them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body.

Romans 15:24

Whensoever I take my journey into Spain, I will come to you: for I trust to see you in my journey, and to be brought on my way thitherward by you, if first I be somewhat filled with your [company].

Joshua 1:9

Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God [is] with thee whithersoever thou goest.

1 Samuel 30:6

And David was greatly distressed; for the people spake of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters: but David encouraged himself in the LORD his God.

1 Corinthians 12:21

And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you.

1 Corinthians 12:22

Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary:

Psalms 27:14

Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.