And from thence to Philippi, which is the chief city of that part of Macedonia, and a colony: and we were in that city abiding certain days.

ACTS 16:12KJV
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Acts 16:12 (KJV)

What does Acts 16:12 mean?

Acts 16:12 describes how Paul and his companions traveled to Philippi, which is highlighted as the leading city in that region of Macedonia and noted as a Roman colony, and stayed there for several days. This verse sets the scene for the events that will take place in Philippi during Paul’s missionary journey.

Luke, the author of Acts, is narrating the journey of Paul and his team as they move through Macedonia, a region in northern Greece. By calling Philippi the “chief city” and a “colony,” the verse emphasizes its importance both politically and culturally, as Roman colonies had special status and influence. The mention of staying “certain days” signals that something significant is about to happen in this city, preparing the reader for the stories that follow.

Where else these words appear

“part” Greek G3310 · used in 5 verses

  • Luke 10:42 But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.
  • Acts 8:21 Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God.
  • 2 Corinthians 6:15 And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?

“Philippi” Greek G5375 · used in 6 verses

  • Acts 20:6 And we sailed away from Philippi after the days of unleavened bread, and came unto them to Troas in five days; where we abode seven days.
  • 1 Corinthians 16:24 My love be with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen. The first epistle to the Corinthians was written from Philippi by Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus and Timotheus.
  • Philippians 1:1 Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons:

“abiding” Greek G1304 · used in 10 verses

  • John 3:22 After these things came Jesus and his disciples into the land of Judaea; and there he tarried with them, and baptized.
  • Acts 14:3 Long time therefore abode they speaking boldly in the Lord, which gave testimony unto the word of his grace, and granted signs and wonders to be done by their hands.
  • Acts 20:6 And we sailed away from Philippi after the days of unleavened bread, and came unto them to Troas in five days; where we abode seven days.

“Macedonia” Greek G3109 · used in 22 verses

  • Acts 16:9 And a vision appeared to Paul in the night; There stood a man of Macedonia, and prayed him, saying, Come over into Macedonia, and help us.
  • Romans 15:26 For it hath pleased them of Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor saints which are at Jerusalem.
  • 2 Corinthians 13:14 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen. The second epistle to the Corinthians was written from Philippi, a city of Macedonia, by Titus and Lucas.