Acts 16:2
What does Acts 16:2 mean?
A plain-English look at Acts 16:2 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Acts 16:2 means
Timothy is known for his godly character and faithful service in Lystra and Iconium. The local believers’ testimony commends him, showing the early church valued proven character over mere enthusiasm. This underscores that Christian leadership grows within community, where consistent witness is observed over time. Timothy’s reputation bridges multiple congregations, indicating he already served in ways that edified others. Luke’s note gives confidence that Timothy’s selection isn’t hasty or based on favoritism, but on spiritual maturity. In God’s economy, quiet faithfulness becomes public commendation at the right time. God prepares vessels for wider usefulness through the ordinary means of local fellowship and accountability.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000The same was well reported of by the brethren that were at Lystra and Iconium.
KJV
King James Version · 1611Which was well reported of by the brethren that were at Lystra and Iconium.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901The same was well reported of by the brethren that were at Lystra and Iconium.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949Of whom the brothers at Lystra and Iconium had a high opinion.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862who was well testified to by the brethren in Lystra and Iconium;
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752To this man the brethren that were in Lystra and Iconium gave a good testimony.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890who had a [good] testimony of the brethren in Lystra and Iconium.
Context
Verse 2 follows the introduction of Timothy by stressing his good report among believers in two cities. This prepares for verse 3, where Paul decides to take Timothy along. The commendation provides the rationale for that choice and anticipates the sensitivity required for ministry among Jews and Greeks. As the narrative moves toward delivering the Jerusalem decrees (verses 4–5), Luke shows the mission team being formed with both spiritual credibility and strategic wisdom in view, essential for the upcoming cross-cultural expansion.
v.1And he came also to Derbe and to Lystra: and behold, a certain disciple was there, named Timothy, the son of a Jewess that believed; but his father was a Greek.
v.2This passage
v.3Him would Paul have to go forth with him; and he took and circumcised him because of the Jews that were in those parts: for they all knew that his father was a Greek.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Acts 6:3
Look ye out therefore, brethren, from among you seven men of good report, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.
- 1 Timothy 5:10
well reported of for good works; if she hath brought up children, if she hath used hospitality to strangers, if she hath washed the saints’ feet, if she hath relieved the afflicted, if she hath diligently followed every good work.
- 1 Timothy 3:7
Moreover he must have good testimony from them that are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.
- 2 Timothy 3:11
persecutions, sufferings; what things befell me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: and out of them all the Lord delivered me.
- 1 Timothy 5:25
In like manner also there are good works that are evident; and such as are otherwise cannot be hid.
- Acts 16:40
And they went out of the prison, and entered into the house of Lydia: and when they had seen the brethren, they comforted them, and departed.
Related questions readers ask
Keep reading
Want to dig deeper? Explore Acts 16
Hand-picked devotionals, topical studies, and pastoral answers that draw on Acts 16.
Topics that quote it
Topic
Bible Verses About Baptism
Baptism is a significant act symbolizing new life in Christ, repentance, and identification with his death, burial, and resurrection.
Topic
Bible Verses About Bible Reading
The Bible encourages us to read, study, and meditate on God’s Word to grow in faith and wisdom.
Topic
Bible Verses About Bitterness
Bitterness is a deep-seated resentment that can poison the heart, but God offers healing and freedom through forgiveness.
What the Bible says about…