Introduction

Let’s review the context. Paul saw the vision of the Macedonian man while in Troas. (1) The group immediately boarded a ship in Troas and headed for Macedonia. (2) The three important provinces in the Roman Empire were Macedonia, Achaia, and Asia. Macedonia, located north of the Aegean Sea, had Thessalonica as its capital. Achaia, located to the west of the Aegean Sea, had Corinth as its capital. Asia, located to the east of the Aegean Sea, had Ephesus as its capital. (3) In this passage, Paul’s travel route was from Troas to Samothrace to Neapolis and to Philippi. The Macedonians were a distinct ethnic group with a strong sense of solidarity with the Greeks. They resisted Roman rule until the very end. Although their initial response to the gospel was resistant, once they believed, they became faithful followers. The places Paul visited in the province of Macedonia were Philippi, Thessalonica, and Berea. Luke devotes the most space to Paul’s mission in Philippi, more than any other city visited during the second and third missionary journeys. Despite Paul’s short stay there, the amount of detail is significant for several reasons: (1) Philippi was the first European city where Paul preached. (2) It was a milestone city, marking the spread of the gospel from the continent of Asia to the continent of Europe. However, the people at the time likely did not view it that way. In their understanding, the gospel simply spread from the province of Asia to the province of Macedonia within the Roman Empire.

Paul’s travel plan (v 11)

“So after setting sail from Troas, we ran a straight course to Samothrace, and on the following day to Neapolis.” (1) From Troas to Samothrace: on the first day, the group sailed over 80 miles (130 km). Samothrace is an island located halfway between Troas and Neapolis. (2) From Samothrace to Neapolis: the next day, they sailed another 80 miles. Traveling 160 miles in two days was an incredibly fast journey (likely due to favorable winds. If the winds had been against them, it could have taken four days). Neapolis is the modern town of Kavala. Neapolis should not be confused with Naples in southern Italy. (3) From Neapolis to Philippi: Neapolis served as the gateway port to Philippi. Traveling northwest along the Via Egnatia for about 9 miles (15 km) from Neapolis, one would arrive in Philippi. In our lives, there will also be times when everything seems to go smoothly. These moments are opportunities to boldly carry out God’s will. It is a blessing when new horizons of faith open up before us. Life is wonderful! God is wonderful!