Acts 28:15

Heard of us. The week’s pause at Puteoli had given time for word of Paul’s arrival to reach the believers at Rome, with which Puteoli, as a seaport, was in constant communication. Ships’ arrivals would be promptly reported, doubtless with word of both the lading and the passenger lists.

Came to meet us. According to Rom. 16:3-15 Paul had both relatives and friends among the believers in Rome. Doubtless some of those whose names are recorded there were on hand to greet Paul.

Appii forum. Literally, “the market place of Appius,” from whose family the famous Via Appia, the Appian Way, running from Rome to Brundisium, was named. The Latin word forum, “market,” came to approximate the English word “borough” (“-burgh”), as indicating a town. The name of the town and the highway both probably refer to Appius Claudius, the noted Roman censor. Appii Forum was on the Appian Way, about 40 mi. (64 km.) south of Rome. Horace speaks slightingly of the place as abounding in tavernkeepers of bad reputation and frequented by sailors (Satires i. 5, 3, 4). Here a deputation from Rome awaited Paul.

Three taverns. The Latin taberna meant more than a “saloon” or “public house”; it included shops of any sort. The location of this village is not certain, but it is said to have been approximately 30 mi. (48 km.) south of Rome (see p. 50). Here another group of Christians met Paul, probably having left Rome later than the former group. This small town is mentioned by Cicero (Letters to Atticus ii. 10).

Thanked God. Paul’s gratitude for a safe journey can readily be appreciated by all Christians who have been through trying experiences.

Took courage. For years Paul had longed to visit Rome and preach the gospel there (Rom. 1:11-13). He must have reflected on the sharp contrast between that eager expectation and the realities of his arrival. But out of the shocking contrast Paul found reason to take courage, and fresh assurance of God’s leading. Paul was skilled at finding reasons for great hope in what appeared to be the most discouraging circumstances (see 2 Cor. 4:7-10; AA 449). He was a confirmed and incurable Christian optimist.