There went with us also certain of the disciples of Caesarea, and brought with them one Mnason of Cyprus, an old disciple, with whom we should lodge.

ACTS 21:16KJV
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Acts 21:16 (KJV)

What does Acts 21:16 mean?

Acts 21:16 describes how some disciples from Caesarea traveled with Paul and his group, bringing along a man named Mnason from Cyprus, who was an early follower of Jesus, and at whose house they planned to stay. The verse highlights the hospitality shown to Paul and his companions as they journeyed.

In this passage, Luke is narrating the events as Paul and his companions make their way toward Jerusalem. The disciples from Caesarea are local believers who join the journey and introduce Paul’s group to Mnason, described as an "old disciple," meaning he had been a follower for a long time. The group plans to stay at Mnason’s house, showing the network of support among early Christians.

The Greek behind Acts 21:16

  • μαθητῶν (mathētōn, "disciples"): This word refers to followers or learners, emphasizing that those traveling with Paul were committed members of the Christian community, not just casual acquaintances.
  • ξενίσθωμεν (xenisthōmen, "lodge"): This verb means to be hosted or to stay as a guest. The use here highlights the practice of hospitality among early Christians, which was essential for traveling believers.
  • ἀρχαίῳ (archaiō, "old"): This word is used to describe Mnason as an "old" or "early" disciple, suggesting he was one of the first believers, which may have given him a respected status in the community.

Why Acts 21:16 matters

  • Acts 21:16 shows the practical ways early Christians supported each other, especially through hospitality, which was vital for safe travel in the ancient world.
  • The mention of Mnason as an "old disciple" connects the present journey to the earliest days of the church, highlighting continuity and faithfulness among believers.
  • This verse sets the stage for Paul’s arrival in Jerusalem by showing the network of relationships and support that made his mission possible.

Where else these words appear

“Cyprus” Greek G2953 · used in 3 verses

  • Acts 4:36 And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas,(which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus,
  • Acts 11:20 And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which, when they were come to Antioch, spake unto the Grecians, preaching the Lord Jesus.

“lodge” Greek G3579 · used in 10 verses

  • Acts 10:6 He lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the sea side: he shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do.
  • Acts 10:32 Send therefore to Joppa, and call hither Simon, whose surname is Peter; he is lodged in the house of one Simon a tanner by the sea side: who, when he cometh, shall speak unto thee.
  • Hebrews 13:2 Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.

“old” Greek G744 · used in 12 verses

  • Matthew 5:21 Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment:
  • Luke 9:8 And of some, that Elias had appeared; and of others, that one of the old prophets was risen again.
  • 2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

“Caesarea” Greek G2542 · used in 17 verses

  • Matthew 16:13 When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am?
  • Acts 10:24 And the morrow after they entered into Caesarea. And Cornelius waited for them, and had called together his kinsmen and near friends.
  • Acts 23:23 And he called unto him two centurions, saying, Make ready two hundred soldiers to go to Caesarea, and horsemen threescore and ten, and spearmen two hundred, at the third hour of the night;