To Troas

Paul’s group was moving from east to west. However, (a) they were forbidden by the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia (Acts 16:6). (b) Then, when they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus did not permit them (Acts 16:7). As a result, they passed by Mysia and went down to Troas (Acts 16:8). (1) Moving forward was the foundation of Paul’s missionary plan, meaning going back east was not an option. (a) They were forbidden to go west (Asia), (b) and were also forbidden to go north (Bithynia). (c) The only direction left was northwest, leading them to Troas. (2) Troas was a port town from which Greece could be seen across the Aegean Sea. It was an important port connecting Asia Minor with Europe, as well as the Aegean Sea with the Black Sea. Geographically, it was located about 25 miles (40 km) south of the ancient city of Troy. (3) Upon arriving in Troas, Paul likely felt at a loss, as the only way to continue would be by taking a ship to cross the sea.

A Macedonian man

“And a vision appeared to Paul in the night: a man of Macedonia was standing and pleading with him, and saying, ‘Come over to Macedonia and help us.’” (1) Paul had no plan at this point. He was earnestly waiting for God’s guidance. (2) Shortly after arriving in Troas, Paul had a vision one night. In the vision, “a man of Macedonia” stood before Paul and pleaded, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.” The use of “us” indicates that this man was from Macedonia. While some scholars speculate that this man might have been Luke, this remains purely speculative. (3) Macedonia is located in northern Greece, directly west of Troas, across the Aegean Sea. The Macedonians were Europeans. Europe was in need of the gospel of Christ. This marked the beginning of the westward spread of the gospel through Europe. Just as Paul faced uncertainty in Troas, we too may sometimes feel lost about what to do next. But such moments are opportunities to hear God’s voice. When we can’t see the way forward or feel at a loss, let us remember Paul’s situation in Troas. God has a greater plan that is beyond our imagination. Let’s pray that He will show us the direction we must go.