11 At the end of three months we set sail on an Alexandrian ship which had wintered at the island , and which had the Twin Brothers for its figurehead . 12 After we put in at Syracuse , we stayed there for three days . 13 From there we sailed around and arrived at Rhegium , and a day later a south wind sprang up, and on the second day we came to Puteoli . 14 There we found some brethren , and were invited to stay with them for seven days ; and thus we came to Rome . 15 And the brethren , when they heard about us, came from there as far as the Market of Appius and Three Inns to meet us; and when Paul saw them, he thanked God and took courage . 16 When we entered Rome , Paul was allowed to stay by himself , with the soldier who was guarding him.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Acts 28:11-16
Commentary on Acts 28:11-16
(Read Acts 28:11-16)
The common events of travelling are seldom worthy of being told; but the comfort of communion with the saints, and kindness shown by friends, deserve particular mention. The Christians at Rome were so far from being ashamed of Paul, or afraid of owning him, because he was a prisoner, that they were the more careful to show him respect. He had great comfort in this. And if our friends are kind to us, God puts it into their hearts, and we must give him the glory. When we see those even in strange places, who bear Christ's name, fear God, and serve him, we should lift up our hearts to heaven in thanksgiving. How many great men have made their entry into Rome, crowned and in triumph, who really were plagues to the world! But here a good man makes his entry into Rome, chained as a poor captive, who was a greater blessing to the world than any other merely a man. Is not this enough to put us for ever out of conceit with worldly favour? This may encourage God's prisoners, that he can give them favour in the eyes of those that carry them captives. When God does not soon deliver his people out of bondage, yet makes it easy to them, or them easy under it, they have reason to be thankful.