Acts 20:15 - Summary and Commentary

Verse Reference: Acts 20:15

This passage is part of the Apostle Paul's journey as he travels through various regions to spread the gospel. Acts 20:15 states:

"And we sailed thence, and came the next day over against Chios; and the next day we arrived at Samos, and tarried at Trogyllium: and the next day we came to Miletus."

Meaning and Interpretation

The verse describes the journey of Paul and his companions as they navigate through maritime routes, emphasizing their determination and dedication to missionary work.

Key Insights:

• Missionary Journey: Paul’s travels illustrate the extensive effort taken to spread Christianity, reflecting the urgency and commitment of the early church in sharing the Gospel (Matthew Henry).
• Geographical Context: Understanding the geographical locations mentioned helps believers to visualize the early church's expansion and the challenges they faced (Albert Barnes).
• Symbolism of the Journey: The traversal through various cities represents spiritual growth and the quest for spreading the Word of God, echoing the theme of perseverance in faith (Adam Clarke).

Comparative Analysis with Other Scriptures:

Acts 20:15 can be cross-referenced with several other scriptures that enhance its understanding and provide thematic connections:

• Romans 10:14-15: Discusses the necessity of preaching and the beautiful feet of those who bring good news.
• 2 Timothy 4:2: Paul's instruction to be instant in season and out of season, paralleling his relentless travel for ministry.
• Matthew 28:19-20: The Great Commission, where Jesus instructs his followers to make disciples of all nations, mirroring Paul's mission.
• Acts 13:2-3: The calling of Barnabas and Saul to missionary service ties into the broader narrative of Acts.
• Philippians 1:5: The partnership in the gospel, reflecting on how the journey of Paul connects with community efforts.
• 1 Thessalonians 2:9: Paul’s labor and trials in preaching the gospel, indicative of the hardships he faced on his journeys.
• 1 Corinthians 9:22: Paul’s adaptability in approach to reach different people groups links back to his missionary travels.

Thematic Connections

The journey described in Acts 20:15 not only highlights geographical travels but also serves as a reflection of broader themes such as:

• Endurance in Faith: The continuous efforts of Paul signify the dedication required in Christian ministry.
• Community and Partnership: The collaborative nature of missionary work is evidenced in the presence of companions on Paul’s journey.
• Transformation through Travel: This journey motif symbolizes how experiences shape the ministry and spread of the Gospel.
• Preparation and Planning: Acts shows Paul’s strategic approach to evangelism, relevant for individuals and churches in mission preparation.

Conclusion

Acts 20:15 serves not just as a historical account but encapsulates vital themes central to the Christian faith. Through careful cross-referencing with related Bible verses, one can appreciate the interconnectedness of scripture and the depth of God’s work through Paul’s life.

Further Study

For those seeking to dive deeper into the connections between Bible verses, various tools can aid your understanding:

• Utilize a Bible Concordance to find related verses.
• Engage in Cross-reference Bible Study methods.
• Consider using Bible reference resources to explore inter-Biblical dialogue.
• Participate in detailed studies focusing on the links between different books of the Bible, such as the Comparative study of Pauline epistles.
• Explore Bible chain references to see how themes are woven throughout scripture.