Acts 17:14 describes a moment of quick action and strategic separation due to persecution. Let's break down what it means:
"Then the brothers immediately sent out Paul..." This indicates that the believers in Berea acted swiftly and decisively. "The brothers" refers to the Christian community in Berea. The word "immediately" emphasizes the urgency of the situation.
"...to go as far as to the sea..." Paul's destination was the coast. This suggests that he was being sent away from Berea to avoid further conflict and potential harm from the pursuing mob. Going "to the sea" likely meant he would be taking a ship to another location. In Acts 17:15, it states that Paul went to Athens.
"...and Silas and Timothy still stayed there." While Paul was sent away for his safety, Silas and Timothy remained in Berea. This implies a division of labor and a continuation of ministry in Berea. They likely stayed to continue teaching and strengthening the new believers, since Paul had only been there for a short time.
In summary, the verse describes a strategic retreat forced by opposition. The believers in Berea sent Paul away to protect him from persecution, while Silas and Timothy remained to continue the work of evangelism and discipleship in Berea. This shows the early church's adaptability and commitment to spreading the Gospel even in the face of adversity. It also highlights the importance of teamwork and differing roles within the early Christian community.
Acts 17:14 describes a moment of quick action and strategic separation due to persecution. Let's break down what it means:
"Then the brothers immediately sent out Paul..." This indicates that the believers in Berea acted swiftly and decisively. "The brothers" refers to the Christian community in Berea. The word "immediately" emphasizes the urgency of the situation.
"...to go as far as to the sea..." Paul's destination was the coast. This suggests that he was being sent away from Berea to avoid further conflict and potential harm from the pursuing mob. Going "to the sea" likely meant he would be taking a ship to another location. In Acts 17:15, it states that Paul went to Athens.
"...and Silas and Timothy still stayed there." While Paul was sent away for his safety, Silas and Timothy remained in Berea. This implies a division of labor and a continuation of ministry in Berea. They likely stayed to continue teaching and strengthening the new believers, since Paul had only been there for a short time.
In summary, the verse describes a strategic retreat forced by opposition. The believers in Berea sent Paul away to protect him from persecution, while Silas and Timothy remained to continue the work of evangelism and discipleship in Berea. This shows the early church's adaptability and commitment to spreading the Gospel even in the face of adversity. It also highlights the importance of teamwork and differing roles within the early Christian community.