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 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, we see a list of individuals who accompanied the Apostle Paul on his journey into Asia. Each of these individuals played a significant role in supporting Paul in his mission to spread the gospel. Sopater of Berea was from the same city where Paul had preached and was a fellow believer who may have provided guidance and assistance. Aristarchus and Secundus were Thessalonians who stood by Paul, showing loyalty and solidarity with their shared faith. Gaius of Derbe and Timotheus were from different regions but united in their commitment to the gospel. Tychicus and Trophimus, both from Asia, were also part of this diverse group of supporters. This passage highlights the importance of community and collaboration in spreading the message of Christianity. By working together and supporting one another, these individuals were able to accompany Paul on his journey and help bring the message of salvation to new regions.
Theological Overview
When examining the passage in Acts 20:4, we see a list of individuals who accompanied Paul into Asia. The names mentioned hold significance both in terms of their roles in supporting Paul's ministry and their backgrounds. Sopater from Berea, known for the Bereans who were commended for examining the Scriptures in Acts 17:11, exemplifies a diligent approach to faith. Aristarchus and Secundus from Thessalonica were loyal companions of Paul, showing the importance of friendship and solidarity in ministry. Gaius of Derbe and Timotheus, or Timothy, are well-known figures in the New Testament, emphasizing the diversity of support Paul received. Lastly, Tychicus and Trophimus from Asia signify the widespread reach of Paul's ministry and the unity of believers across different regions. Each name mentioned in this verse contributes to the rich tapestry of relationships and partnerships that were instrumental in spreading the message of Christianity.
Acts 20:4 in other translations
American Standard Version
And there accompanied him as far as Asia, Sopater of Beroea, [the son] of Pyrrhus; and of the Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus; and Gaius of Derbe, and Timothy; and of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus.
World English Bible
These accompanied him as far as Asia: Sopater of Beroea; Aristarchus and Secundus of the Thessalonians; Gaius of Derbe; Timothy; and Tychicus and Trophimus of Asia.
Douay-Rheims
And there accompanied him Sopater, the son of Pyrrhus, of Berea: and of the Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus: and Gaius of Derbe and Timothy: and of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And there accompanied him into Asia, Sopater of Berea, and of them of Thessalonica, Aristarchus, and Secundus, and Gaius of Derbe, and Timotheus, and of them of Asia, Tychicus, and Trophimus.