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Acts 6:9
Then there arose certain of the synagogue, which is calledthe synagogue of the Libertines, and Cyrenians, and Alexandrians, and of them of Cilicia and of Asia, disputing with Stephen.

Acts 15:23,41
And they wroteletters by them after this manner; The apostles and elders and brethrensend greeting unto the brethren which are of the Gentiles in Antioch and Syria and Cilicia: …

Acts 21:39
But Paul said, I am a manwhich am a Jew of Tarsus,a city in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city: and, I beseech thee, suffer me to speak unto the people.

Pamphylia.

Acts 2:10
Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes,

Acts 13:13
Now when Paul and his company loosed from Paphos, they came to Perga in Pamphylia: and John departing from them returned to Jerusalem.

Acts 15:38
But Paul thought not good to take him with them, who departed from them from Pamphylia, and went not with them to the work.

Myra.

off the coast of Cilicia and Pamphylia
Cilicia and Pamphylia were regions in Asia Minor, modern-day Turkey. Cilicia was known for its rugged terrain and was the birthplace of Paul (Tarsus in Cilicia). This connection emphasizes Paul's deep roots in the region and his familiarity with the cultural and geographical landscape. Pamphylia, mentioned inActs 13:13, was a region Paul had previously visited during his missionary journeys, indicating the continuity of his mission work.

we came to Myra in Lycia
Myra was an important city in the region of Lycia, known for its strategic location and as a hub for maritime trade. Archaeological findings, such as the ancient theater and rock-cut tombs, provide insight into its historical significance. Myra's mention inActs 27:5 highlights the logistical aspects of Paul's journey, as it was a common stop for ships traveling to Rome. This stopover reflects the providential guidance in Paul's journey, ensuring he reached his destination despite the challenges. The journey to Rome itself can be seen as a fulfillment of God's promise to Paul that he would testify in Rome (Acts 23:11).

• Luke, the inspired narrator, includes himself with Paul (“we”), underscoring an eyewitness record that can be trusted (cf.Luke 1:3;Acts 16:10).

• “The open sea” points to God’s hand over vast, potentially dangerous waters—echoing passages likePsalm 107:23-30, where the Lord stills storms for those who “go down to the sea in ships.”

• Paul’s resolve to reach Rome (Acts 19:21) presses forward despite maritime risks, reminding us that obedience sometimes means braving uncertainty while resting in divine sovereignty (Acts 27:24).

• These coastal regions are familiar ground for Paul:

– Cilicia was his home territory (Acts 21:39;Galatians 1:21).

– Pamphylia was part of his first missionary journey (Acts 13:13).

• The mention roots the voyage in verifiable geography and history, reinforcing the literal reliability of Scripture.

• God often guides us through places tied to our past, stitching earlier experiences into new chapters of His plan (Romans 8:28).

• Myra was a major harbor where ships from Egypt took on passengers and cargo. Here, Julius the centurion transfers Paul to an Alexandrian grain ship bound for Italy (Acts 27:6).

• This “chance” connection showcases providence in ordinary logistics, much like the “coincidental” meeting of Philip and the Ethiopian (Acts 8:26-35).

• Paul’s status as a prisoner does not hinder God; instead, the Lord uses Roman infrastructure to advance the gospel (Philippians 1:12-13).

• Lycia marks measurable progress toward Rome, fulfilling Christ’s words: “Take courage, for as you have testified about Me in Jerusalem, so must you also testify in Rome” (Acts 23:11).

• Every regional marker underscores that God’s promises unfold in real time and space, inviting believers to trust Him with the next mile of their own journey (Proverbs 16:9).

Acts 27:5 is more than a travel note; it is a Spirit-breathed reminder that God guides His servants through real seas, real ports, and real events to accomplish His purpose. Each geographic detail authenticates Scripture’s historical accuracy while highlighting the Lord’s meticulous care in moving Paul—and us—toward the destinations He has ordained.