Acts Chapter 16 · Verse 2
Which was well reported of by the brethren that were at Lystra and Iconium.
Original Language Analysis
ὃς
Which
G3739
ὃς
Which
Strong's:
G3739
Word #:
1 of 9
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
ἐμαρτυρεῖτο
was well reported
G3140
ἐμαρτυρεῖτο
was well reported
Strong's:
G3140
Word #:
2 of 9
to be a witness, i.e., testify (literally or figuratively)
ὑπὸ
of by
G5259
ὑπὸ
of by
Strong's:
G5259
Word #:
3 of 9
under, i.e., (with the genitive case) of place (beneath), or with verbs (the agency or means, through); (with the accusative case) of place (whither (
τῶν
G3588
τῶν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 9
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
7 of 9
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
Historical Context
Timothy likely became a believer during Paul's first missionary journey (AD 47-48), when Paul preached in Lystra despite violent persecution. By Paul's return (AD 50-51), Timothy was approximately 15-20 years old but already recognized for faithful discipleship. His mixed heritage (Jewish mother, Greek father, 16:1) positioned him uniquely for cross-cultural ministry in both synagogue and Gentile contexts.
Questions for Reflection
- What kind of 'report' are the believers in your community giving about your character and faithfulness?
- How does Timothy's multi-church commendation challenge modern practices of hasty ordination or self-appointed ministry?
Analysis & Commentary
Which was well reported of by the brethren—Timothy (μαρτυρέω, martyreō, 'to bear witness/testify') had earned a sterling reputation among multiple congregations. The imperfect tense suggests ongoing, consistent testimony to his character. This public commendation was critical for Paul's apostolic team; unlike the contentious separation from Barnabas over John Mark (15:37-39), here Paul seeks a proven disciple.
At Lystra and Iconium—Notably the very cities where Paul was stoned and left for dead (14:19). That Timothy's witness extended across both communities—about 18 miles apart—demonstrates maturity beyond his youth. The multi-church recommendation establishes the biblical pattern of requiring external validation for ministry leadership, not merely self-appointment or single-congregation approval (cf. 1 Tim 3:7, 'good testimony from outsiders').