Acts 20:4
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Acts 20:4
4 And there accompanied him into Asia Sopater of Berea; and of the Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus; and Gaius of Derbe, and Timotheus; and of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus.
Chapter Context
Acts 20 is a historical narrative chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of righteousness, wisdom, salvation. 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 addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. 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 20:4
4 And there accompanied him into Asia Sopater of Berea; and of the Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus; and Gaius of Derbe, and Timotheus; and of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus.
Analysis
The list of companions - 'Sopater, Aristarchus, Secundus, Gaius, Timotheus, Tychicus, and Trophimus' - shows Paul's team ministry model. Representatives from different churches accompanied the collection. Shared ministry and accountability characterized apostolic work.
Historical Context
These companions represented churches from Berea, Thessalonica, Derbe, and Asia. They likely guarded the collection for Jerusalem (Romans 15:26).
Reflection
- What does Paul's team approach teach about shared ministry?
- How did diverse representatives serve accountability for the collection?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Acts 14:6, 16:1, 19:29, 21:29, Ephesians 6:21, Colossians 4:7