Acts 20:4

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.

Acts 20:4 (KJV)

Context

Acts 20:4 lists seven men who accompanied Paul as he traveled from Greece toward Asia, likely joining him at Troas after going ahead. These men represented churches from Macedonia (Berea and Thessalonica), Galatia (Derbe), and the province of Asia, showing the breadth of the Gentile mission.

Meaning

Sopater of Berea

Sopater was from Berea, a city in Macedonia where Paul had preached and the Bereans had searched the Scriptures daily to confirm the message (Acts 17:10-14). He is probably the same person as Sosipater mentioned in Romans 16:21, where Paul sends greetings from him, indicating he was with Paul in Corinth.

Aristarchus and Secundus

These two were Thessalonians who joined Paul on his journey. Aristarchus is mentioned elsewhere in Acts (19:29; 27:2) and is described as a fellow worker and prisoner with Paul (Colossians 4:10; Philemon 1:24). Secundus, however, is only mentioned in this verse.

Gaius of Derbe and Timothy

Gaius was a native of Derbe, a city in Galatia. Timothy, well-known to Paul and his protégé, was from Lystra and became a trusted companion and co-worker in spreading the gospel.

Tychicus and Trophimus

Tychicus and Trophimus, both from the province of Asia, accompanied Paul as well. Tychicus is mentioned in several New Testament letters (Ephesians 6:21; Colossians 4:7; 2 Timothy 4:12) and is described as a beloved brother and faithful minister. Trophimus, an Ephesian (Acts 21:29), was with Paul in Jerusalem and was the occasion for Paul’s arrest (Acts 21:27-29).

Biblical connections

The presence of these men likely relates to Paul’s collection for the poor saints in Jerusalem (Acts 24:17; Romans 15:25-26; 1 Corinthians 16:1-4), as representatives of the Gentile churches bringing their gifts. This verse emphasizes the unity of the church across regions and the practical partnership in the gospel.

Application

This verse highlights the teamwork and support that Paul received during his ministry. He had a group of dedicated individuals from various regions who traveled with him, providing companionship, assistance, and encouragement. These individuals were committed to spreading the gospel and supporting Paul in his mission. Their example encourages believers to work together in unity, each contributing from their own community to support the shared mission of the gospel.

Reflection

Consider how you can partner with others in the gospel, bringing the resources and gifts of your own community to support the wider work of the church.