Acts 20:15
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Acts 20:15
15 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.
Chapter Context
Acts 20 is a historical narrative chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of obedience, redemption, faith. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Chronicles Christianity's spread across the Roman Empire despite official and unofficial opposition.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-38: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Acts and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Acts 20:15
15 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.
Analysis
And we sailed thence—Luke's precise travelogue continues with characteristic nautical detail. The itinerary from Assos traces Paul's third missionary journey's final leg toward Jerusalem: Chios (Greek island opposite Smyrna), Samos (birthplace of Pythagoras), Trogyllium (promontory between Samos and Miletus), and Miletus (major Ionian port 30 miles south of Ephesus).
This seemingly mundane geographical catalog serves theological purpose—it demonstrates the gospel's westward march through the Greco-Roman world's cultural centers. Paul's urgency (speudō, v. 16—'hastening') to reach Jerusalem by Pentecost drives this rapid coastal hopping. The mention of Miletus foreshadows verses 17-38's emotional farewell address to Ephesian elders, one of Acts' most theologically rich passages on pastoral ministry and apostolic succession.
Historical Context
Written circa AD 60-62, Luke documents Paul's spring AD 57 voyage. These were major Mediterranean ports along established trade routes. Miletus, though declining from its classical glory, remained strategically important. Paul's choice to summon Ephesian elders to Miletus rather than revisit Ephesus (v. 16) suggests both time constraints and possibly security concerns after the silversmith riot (19:23-41).
Reflection
- How does Luke's attention to geographical detail demonstrate the historical reliability and eyewitness nature of Acts?
- What does Paul's urgency to reach Jerusalem 'at all costs' reveal about apostolic priorities and obedience to the Spirit's leading?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Acts 20:17, 2 Timothy 4:20