The brothers in Lystra and IconiumLystra and Iconium were cities in the region of Galatia, which is in modern-day Turkey. Lystra was a Roman colony, and Iconium was a significant city in the region. Both cities were part of Paul's first missionary journey (Acts 14), where he faced both acceptance and persecution. The mention of "brothers" indicates the presence of established Christian communities in these cities, likely founded during Paul's earlier visit. This reflects the spread of the Gospel and the establishment of the early church in Asia Minor. The term "brothers" signifies the close-knit fellowship among believers, emphasizing the familial bond within the early Christian community.
spoke well of him
The "him" referred to here is Timothy, a young disciple who would become a close companion and co-worker of Paul. The commendation from the brothers in Lystra and Iconium highlights Timothy's good reputation and character, which were essential for ministry. This positive testimony aligns with the biblical principle found in1 Timothy 3:7, where leaders are encouraged to have a good reputation with outsiders. Timothy's commendation also reflects the importance of character and witness in the early church, as seen in other scriptural examples like Daniel (Daniel 6:4) and Joseph (Genesis 39:4). The approval from multiple communities suggests Timothy's consistent faithfulness and integrity, making him a suitable candidate for the work of the Gospel.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
TimothyA young disciple who is well-regarded by the believers in Lystra and Iconium. He becomes a significant figure in the early church and a close companion of the Apostle Paul.
2.
LystraA city in the region of Lycaonia, where Timothy is from. It is one of the places where Paul and Barnabas preached during their missionary journeys.
3.
IconiumAnother city in the region of Lycaonia, close to Lystra. It is known for its early Christian community and is one of the places where Paul and Barnabas faced opposition.
4.
The BrothersRefers to the Christian believers in Lystra and Iconium who testify to Timothy's good character and faith.
5.
PaulAlthough not directly mentioned in this verse, Paul is the one who hears the good report about Timothy and decides to take him along on his missionary journeys.
Teaching Points
The Importance of a Good ReputationA good reputation among believers is crucial for effective ministry. Timothy's commendation by the brothers in Lystra and Iconium set the stage for his future work with Paul.
The Role of Community AffirmationThe testimony of fellow believers can affirm and validate one's calling and gifts. It is important to live in such a way that others can speak well of us.
Intergenerational FaithTimothy's faith was influenced by his mother and grandmother, showing the impact of family in spiritual development. We should strive to pass on our faith to the next generation.
Preparation for MinistryBefore Timothy joined Paul, he was already known for his faith and character. Preparation for ministry often begins long before formal roles are assumed.
The Influence of Godly MentorsPaul’s decision to take Timothy under his wing highlights the importance of mentorship in spiritual growth and ministry effectiveness.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Acts 16:2?
2.How does Acts 16:2 illustrate the importance of a good reputation among believers?
3.Why was Timothy "well spoken of" by the brethren in Acts 16:2?
4.How can we cultivate a reputation like Timothy's in our own communities?
5.What other biblical figures were known for their good reputations among believers?
6.How does having a good reputation impact our witness for Christ today?
7.Why was Timothy well spoken of by the believers in Lystra and Iconium in Acts 16:2?
8.How does Acts 16:2 reflect the early Christian community's values and priorities?
9.What role did Timothy's reputation play in Paul's decision to take him on his journey?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Acts 16?
11.What are Timothy's key contributions in the Bible?
12.Where is Lystra mentioned in the Bible?
13.Why would Acts 14:27 assert God 'opened a door of faith to the Gentiles' when earlier passages (e.g., Acts 10) already describe Gentile inclusion?
14.What are the key events in the Book of Acts?What Does Acts 16:2 Mean
The brothersActs 16:2 opens by pointing to “the brothers,” ordinary believers who had become a spiritual family through faith in Christ (Acts 2:42-44;Galatians 6:10).
• These are fellow disciples, not mere acquaintances. Their witness carries weight because they know Timothy’s life up close (1 Thessalonians 1:4-5).
• Scripture often relies on brothers and sisters to confirm someone’s character—think of Barnabas standing up for Paul inActs 9:27 or the church at Jerusalem validating Peter’s Gentile ministry inActs 11:18.
• God’s design is that commendation arises from within the body, protecting the church from lone-wolf ministries (Hebrews 13:7).
in Lystra and IconiumThe commendation comes from two neighboring cities, about twenty miles apart (Acts 14:6).
• Timothy’s reputation is consistent across different congregations; nothing is hidden or localized (Proverbs 22:1).
• These are the very places where Paul had earlier faced persecution (Acts 14:19-22), yet the believers there remain strong. Timothy has grown up amid hardship, proving reliable under pressure (James 1:2-4).
• A good report from multiple assemblies echoes the requirement for elders to have “a good reputation with outsiders” (1 Timothy 3:7).
spoke wellThe phrase points to active testimony, more than polite silence.
• The brothers “spoke well” (compare3 John 1:12: “Everyone speaks well of Demetrius”). They weren’t coerced; their words flowed from genuine observation (Matthew 12:34).
• What did they likely highlight?
‑ Faithfulness to Scripture (2 Timothy 3:14-15)
‑ Servant-hearted attitude (Mark 10:43-45)
‑ Evident spiritual fruit (Galatians 5:22-23)
• Such commendation prepares Timothy for greater ministry—Paul selects him as a traveling coworker because reliable testimonies confirm God’s calling (1 Timothy 4:14).
of himThe “him” is Timothy, first mentioned inActs 16:1.
• Though young (1 Timothy 4:12), Timothy already demonstrates maturity. Spiritual growth is measured by character, not age.
• Timothy’s mixed heritage—Jewish mother, Greek father—could have divided the church, yet his commitment unites believers (2 Timothy 1:5).
• Personal integrity invites others to invest in us; Paul circumcises Timothy for strategic reasons (Acts 16:3) and brings him along, confident in his proven faithfulness (2 Timothy 2:2).
summaryActs 16:2 shows a Spirit-shaped pattern: brothers in Christ observe a young disciple’s life, across more than one city, and freely give him a glowing report. Their unified commendation underscores the importance of tested character, community validation, and consistent witness before anyone is launched into wider ministry.
Verse 2.- The same for
which, A.V. This is an improvement, as making it plain that it was Timothy, not his father, who was
well reported of. For the phrase,
ὅς ἐμαρτυοεῖτο see
Acts 6:3;
Acts 10:22;
Luke 4:22.
At Lystra and Iconium; coupled together, as in
2 Timothy 3:11. It appears, too, from
Acts 14:19, that there was close communication between Icouium and Lystra. The brethren at Iconium would, therefore, naturally know all about young Timothy (comp.
1 Timothy 3:7).
Parallel Commentaries ...
Greek
Theτῶν(tōn)Article - Genitive Masculine Plural
Strong's 3588:The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.brothersἀδελφῶν(adelphōn)Noun - Genitive Masculine Plural
Strong's 80:A brother, member of the same religious community, especially a fellow-Christian. A brother near or remote.inἐν(en)Preposition
Strong's 1722:In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc.LystraΛύστροις(Lystrois)Noun - Dative Neuter Plural
Strong's 3082:Lystra, a place in Asia Minor.andκαὶ(kai)Conjunction
Strong's 2532:And, even, also, namely.IconiumἸκονίῳ(Ikoniō)Noun - Dative Neuter Singular
Strong's 2430:Perhaps from eikon; image-like; Iconium, a place in Asia Minor.spoke well ofἐμαρτυρεῖτο(emartyreito)Verb - Imperfect Indicative Middle or Passive - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 3140:To witness, bear witness, give evidence, testify, give a good report. From martus; to be a witness, i.e. Testify.[him].ὃς(hos)Personal / Relative Pronoun - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's 3739:Who, which, what, that.
Links
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NT Apostles: Acts 16:2 The brothers who were at Lystra (Acts of the Apostles Ac) 
