Introduction

At this stage, Paul’s self-awareness was likely as follows: (1) He still had some strength, but he was not young anymore. (2) It was necessary to bring his ministry up to this point to a conclusion and bid farewell to the churches. (3) He needed to begin the remaining work. Paul had to leave Ephesus earlier than planned due to the riot. (1) This passage serves as a record of Paul’s travels. (2) The Church Fathers did not recognize the significance of this passage (no commentary has been preserved). (3) However, it contains many spiritual lessons. Paul’s itinerary is as follows: (1) From Ephesus to Troas (v 1). (2) From Troas to Philippi (v 1). From Philippi to Corinth (v 2-3a). (4) From Corinth back to Philippi (v 3b). From Philippi to Troas (v 4-6).

From Ephesus to Troas

“After the uproar had ceased, Paul sent for the disciples, and when he had encouraged them and taken his leave of them, he left to go to Macedonia.” (1) Luke omits the account of Paul’s visit to Troas and writes as though Paul went directly to Macedonia, but in reality, Paul did visit Troas. (2) Paul was planning to go to Jerusalem, passing through Macedonia and Achaia. Acts 19:21 states, “Now after these things were finished, Paul resolved in the Spirit to go to Jerusalem after he had passed through Macedonia and Achaia.” (3) After leaving Ephesus, Paul arrived at Troas, the port town where he had seen the vision of the Macedonian man. His state of mind at that time is recorded in 2 Corinthians 2:12-13: “Now when I came to Troas for the gospel of Christ and when a door was opened for me in the Lord, I had no rest for my spirit, not finding Titus my brother; but saying goodbye to them, I went on to Macedonia.” (a) Although an opportunity for evangelism was prepared in Troas, Paul quickly left for Macedonia (Philippi). (2) Paul had sent Titus ahead to Corinth with a stern letter. (3) He had planned to meet Titus in Troas, but they were unable to meet. (4) Therefore, Paul cut his stay in Troas short and headed for Philippi. “Paul sent for the disciples, and when he had encouraged them…” The word “encouraged” (aspazomai) carries meanings such as rebuke, warning, correction, and encouragement. Paul always desired the spiritual growth of believers. His thoughtful care reflected the love of the Lord Jesus. Today, let us continue to go into the world as those who are loved by the Lord Jesus.