And they that conducted Paul brought him unto Athens: and receiving a commandment unto Silas and Timotheus for to come to him with all speed, they departed.

ACTS 17:15KJV
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Acts 17:15 (KJV)

What does Acts 17:15 mean?

Acts 17:15 describes how some companions escorted Paul to Athens and, after receiving instructions from Paul for Silas and Timothy to join him quickly, those companions left. The verse highlights the transition in Paul's journey and his desire for his fellow workers to reunite with him soon.

Paul had been facing opposition in previous cities, so believers helped him travel safely to Athens, a major Greek city. Paul sent word back with these companions, asking Silas and Timothy—who had stayed behind in Berea—to come to him as soon as possible, showing the importance of their partnership in his ministry.

The Greek behind Acts 17:15

  • The word for "conducted" is καθίστημι (kathistēmi), which often means to bring, lead, or appoint. Here, it emphasizes that Paul's companions were actively ensuring his safe arrival in Athens, not just traveling with him.
  • The phrase "with all speed" uses ὡς τάχιστα (hōs tachista), which means "as quickly as possible." This shows Paul's urgency in wanting Silas and Timothy to join him, underlining the importance of their support and teamwork.

Why Acts 17:15 matters

  • Acts 17:15 shows the practical steps believers took to protect Paul and support his mission, highlighting the risks and teamwork involved in early Christian ministry.
  • The verse sets up the context for Paul's time in Athens, where he will soon address the philosophers at the Areopagus, making it a key transition in the narrative.
  • The urgency in Paul's message to Silas and Timothy points to the challenges and isolation he may have felt in a new city, emphasizing the value of trusted companions in ministry.

Where else these words appear

“departed” Greek G1826 · used in 4 verses

  • Acts 13:42 And when the Jews were gone out of the synagogue, the Gentiles besought that these words might be preached to them the next sabbath.
  • Acts 20:7 And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight.
  • Acts 27:43 But the centurion, willing to save Paul, kept them from their purpose; and commanded that they which could swim should cast themselves first into the sea, and get to land:

“Athens” Greek G116 · used in 6 verses

  • Acts 17:16 Now while Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was stirred in him, when he saw the city wholly given to idolatry.
  • Acts 18:1 After these things Paul departed from Athens, and came to Corinth;
  • 1 Thessalonians 5:28 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen. The first epistle to the Thessalonians was written from Athens.

“Silas” Greek G4609 · used in 13 verses

  • Acts 15:22 Then pleased it the apostles and elders, with the whole church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas; namely, Judas surnamed Barsabas, and Silas, chief men among the brethren:
  • Acts 15:40 And Paul chose Silas, and departed, being recommended by the brethren unto the grace of God.
  • Acts 17:4 And some of them believed, and consorted with Paul and Silas; and of the devout Greeks a great multitude, and of the chief women not a few.

“conducted” Greek G2525 · used in 21 verses

  • Matthew 24:45 Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household, to give them meat in due season?
  • Luke 12:44 Of a truth I say unto you, that he will make him ruler over all that he hath.
  • Hebrews 2:7 Thou madest him a little lower than the angels; thou crownedst him with glory and honour, and didst set him over the works of thy hands: