Acts 21:16

There went with us also [certain] of the disciples of Caesarea, and brought with them one Mnason of Cyprus, an old disciple, with whom we should lodge.

{G1161} There went {G4905} with {G4862} us {G2254} also {G2532} certain of the disciples {G3101} of {G575} Caesarea {G2542}, and brought {G71} with them {G3844} one {G5100} Mnason {G3416} of Cyprus {G2953}, an old {G744} disciple {G3101}, with whom {G3739} we should lodge {G3579}.

and with us went some of the talmidim from Caesarea. They brought us to the home of the man with whom we were to stay, Mnason from Cyprus, who had been a talmid since the early days.

Some of the disciples from Caesarea accompanied us, and they took us to stay at the home of Mnason the Cypriot, an early disciple.

And there went with us also certain of the disciples from Cæsarea, bringing with them one Mnason of Cyprus, an early disciple, with whom we should lodge.

Commentary

Acts 21:16 describes a specific logistical detail during the apostle Paul's final journey to Jerusalem, highlighting the practical support and fellowship within the early Christian community. This verse follows Paul's determined decision to proceed to Jerusalem despite prophetic warnings of impending suffering (Acts 21:13).

Context

As Paul and his companions departed from Caesarea, where they had stayed with Philip the evangelist, they were joined by some local disciples. Their ultimate destination was Jerusalem, a city where Paul was heading into significant danger. The mention of "certain of the disciples of Caesarea" accompanying them underscores the strong bonds of Christian fellowship and the concern for Paul's welfare. This journey was not just a solitary mission but a communal effort, marked by mutual support and care among believers.

Key Figures and Themes

  • Mnason of Cyprus: The central figure introduced in this verse is Mnason. He is identified as being "of Cyprus," which connects him geographically to Barnabas, another prominent early Christian leader who was also from Cyprus (Acts 4:36). His most notable description is "an old disciple." The Greek phrase, archaios mathētēs (ἀρχαῖος μαθητής), suggests not merely old in age, but likely a believer from the very early days of Christianity, perhaps even one who heard the apostles directly after Pentecost. This seniority and long-standing faith would have made his home a respected and safe haven for lodging.
  • Hospitality: The primary purpose of Mnason's inclusion in this narrative is to provide lodging for Paul and his company. Hospitality was a cornerstone of early Christian life, essential for traveling missionaries and for fostering community. Providing a place to stay was a practical demonstration of love and support, aligning with biblical exhortations to "entertain strangers" (Hebrews 13:2).
  • Christian Fellowship and Support: The disciples from Caesarea not only accompanied Paul but also facilitated the lodging arrangement, demonstrating a proactive role in supporting the apostle and his mission. This highlights the interconnectedness of the early church, where believers from different regions worked together to serve the Lord and His servants.

Significance and Application

Acts 21:16, though seemingly a minor detail, offers profound insights into the character of the early church:

  • It illustrates the practical outworking of Christian love and support. Even in the face of warnings and potential danger, believers rallied around Paul, showing solidarity and care.
  • It emphasizes the value of mature believers like Mnason, whose steadfast faith and open homes provided stability and resources for the nascent church. His example reminds us of the blessing of those who have walked with the Lord for many years, offering wisdom and practical help.
  • The verse subtly reinforces the importance of hospitality as a vital component of Christian ministry and community. It’s a timeless reminder that opening our homes and resources to others is a tangible way to serve God and His people.

In contemporary terms, this verse encourages believers to support those in ministry, to value the wisdom and experience of seasoned followers of Christ, and to practice hospitality as a means of strengthening the body of Christ.

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Cross-References

  • Proverbs 16:31 (4 votes)

    ¶ The hoary head [is] a crown of glory, [if] it be found in the way of righteousness.

  • Psalms 92:14 (3 votes)

    They shall still bring forth fruit in old age; they shall be fat and flourishing;

  • Acts 21:3 (3 votes)

    Now when we had discovered Cyprus, we left it on the left hand, and sailed into Syria, and landed at Tyre: for there the ship was to unlade her burden.

  • Acts 21:4 (3 votes)

    And finding disciples, we tarried there seven days: who said to Paul through the Spirit, that he should not go up to Jerusalem.

  • Acts 21:8 (3 votes)

    ¶ And the next [day] we that were of Paul's company departed, and came unto Caesarea: and we entered into the house of Philip the evangelist, which was [one] of the seven; and abode with him.

  • Psalms 71:17 (2 votes)

    O God, thou hast taught me from my youth: and hitherto have I declared thy wondrous works.

  • Psalms 71:18 (2 votes)

    Now also when I am old and grayheaded, O God, forsake me not; until I have shewed thy strength unto [this] generation, [and] thy power to every one [that] is to come.