Acts 28:14
Where we found brethren, and were desired to tarry with them seven days: and so we went toward Rome.
Original Language Analysis
ἀδελφοὺς
brethren
G80
ἀδελφοὺς
brethren
Strong's:
G80
Word #:
3 of 15
a brother (literally or figuratively) near or remote (much like g0001)
παρεκλήθημεν
and were desired
G3870
παρεκλήθημεν
and were desired
Strong's:
G3870
Word #:
4 of 15
to call near, i.e., invite, invoke (by imploration, hortation or consolation)
ἐπ'
with
G1909
ἐπ'
with
Strong's:
G1909
Word #:
5 of 15
properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re
αὐτοῖς
them
G846
αὐτοῖς
them
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
6 of 15
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
ἐπιμεῖναι
to tarry
G1961
ἐπιμεῖναι
to tarry
Strong's:
G1961
Word #:
7 of 15
to stay over, i.e., remain (figuratively, persevere)
ἡμέρας
days
G2250
ἡμέρας
days
Strong's:
G2250
Word #:
8 of 15
day, i.e., (literally) the time space between dawn and dark, or the whole 24 hours (but several days were usually reckoned by the jews as inclusive of
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
10 of 15
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
εἰς
toward
G1519
εἰς
toward
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
12 of 15
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
Historical Context
Puteoli's Christian community evidences rapid gospel spread through Roman trade networks. By AD 61, congregations existed throughout Italy. Julius' accommodation suggests Paul's Roman citizenship and Julius' witness to Paul's character during the shipwreck influenced his treatment.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Christian hospitality strengthen those facing uncertain or difficult circumstances?
- What does Paul's seven-day rest teach about balancing mission urgency with community fellowship?
Analysis & Commentary
Where we found brethren—The gospel had already reached Puteoli, likely through Pentecost pilgrims (Acts 2:10) or Roman commerce. These believers desired (παρεκλήθημεν, pareklēthēmen, 'urged' or 'encouraged') Paul to stay seven days—remarkable given his prisoner status. Julius the centurion's permission demonstrates the respect Paul commanded even in chains.
And so we went toward Rome—After fellowship strengthening, Paul resumed his journey. This pattern recurs throughout Acts: Christian hospitality and community strengthen missionaries for trials ahead. The seven-day stay provided sabbath worship and mutual encouragement before Rome's uncertainties.