After the uproar had ceased, Paul sent for the disciples; and after encouraging them and saying farewell, he left for Macedonia. When he had gone through those regions and had given the believers much encouragement, he came to Greece, where he stayed for three months. He was about to set sail for Syria when a plot was made against him by the Jews, and so he decided to return through Macedonia. He was accompanied by Sopater son of Pyrrhus from Beroea, by Aristarchus and Secundus from Thessalonica, by Gaius from Derbe, and by Timothy, as well as by Tychicus and Trophimus from Asia. They went ahead and were waiting for us in Troas; but we sailed from Philippi after the days of Unleavened Bread, and in five days we joined them in Troas, where we stayed for seven days. Acts 20:1-6
Demetrius did not gain anything by causing the tremendous riot and the large uproar in Ephesus. Paul remains in Ephesus until all is calm. Then Paul sends for and gathers Christ’s disciples, leaves Ephesus, and goes throughout Macedonia preaching Christ’s encouragement.
Biblical preachers preach Christ’s encouragement. When Paul says, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” (Philippians 4:13) it is encouragement to believers who are persecuted, anxious about tomorrow, and their faith is low. This lifts them up to Him. Paul says God gives us encouragement. (Romans 15:5) And be of good courage, for I believe God. (Acts 27:25) Also, we have not received a spirit of bondage to fear. (Romans 8:15)
Believers are encouraged by other believers who speak encouragement when we gather together in twos or more.
The portion of Greece where Paul and the disciples stay for three months is between Macedonia and Achaia. On Paul’s way to the ship to set said for Syria an ambush is laid for him. Paul is not afraid. Led by Holy Spirit, he decides to return through Macedonia and sail out from Philippi.
Some of the disciples leave him but Trophimus goes with Paul to Jerusalem (Acts 21:29) and Aristarchus goes with Paul to Rome. (Acts 27:2). ‘We sailed’ v. 6, indicates that Saint Luke is once again with Paul. God has send wonderful Luke back to help Paul in any way that he can help. Paul is grateful to God always.
