Lexical Summary apeimi: went Original Word: ἀπείμι Strong's Exhaustive Concordance go awayFrom apo and eimi (to go); to go away -- go. Compare apeimi. see GREEK apo see GREEK apeimi NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom apo and eimi (to go) Definition to go away, depart NASB Translation went (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 549: ἄπειμι (2)ἄπειμι (2): imperfect 3 person plural ἀπεησαν; (εἰμί to go); (from Homer down); to go away, depart: Acts 17:10. Topical Lexicon Usage in the New TestamentStrong’s Greek 549 appears once, in Acts 17:10, describing Paul and Silas “going away” from Thessalonica to Berea. The verb underscores the decisive, strategic movement of the missionaries in response to mounting opposition. Their departure is neither aimless flight nor abandonment of ministry; it is purposeful relocation to preserve the gospel witness and advance it where hearts are prepared to receive it. Historical Background Acts 17 records the midpoint of Paul’s second missionary journey (approximately A.D. 49–52). Thessalonica’s jealous synagogue leaders stirred civil unrest, forcing a swift night evacuation of the missionary team. Berea lay about fifty miles southwest, reachable by the Ignatian Way and a mountain pass. Known for its relative tranquility and its synagogue’s openness, Berea offered a new platform for proclamation once Paul and Silas arrived. Literary Setting Luke places the verb after the participle “having arrived,” creating a swift narrative rhythm: “On arriving, they went into the Jewish synagogue” (Acts 17:10). The compound sense of immediate arrival followed by immediate action highlights a hallmark of apostolic ministry—unceasing gospel initiative regardless of circumstances. Ministry Significance 1. Mobility under Providence The single occurrence showcases Spirit-led flexibility. Opposition at Thessalonica did not end the mission; it redirected it. The verb frames departure as part of God’s providential pathway, echoing Jesus’ instruction: “When they persecute you in one town, flee to the next” (Matthew 10:23). 2. Continuity of Witness “Going away” is paired with entering the synagogue in Berea. Departure from hostility is simultaneously engagement with opportunity. The move protects the messengers without pausing the message. 3. Example for Church Strategy Churches today discern when to remain and when to relocate ministry efforts. Acts 17:10 legitimizes strategic withdrawal when it maximizes gospel fruitfulness and the welfare of believers. Theological Implications • Sovereignty and Human Agency: Paul and Silas choose to depart, yet Luke’s narrative attributes every stage of the journey to divine direction (Acts 16:6–10; 17:14). The lone use of the verb thus participates in Scripture’s larger theme that God ordains both means and movement. • Perseverance in Mission: The action proves that perseverance includes prudent movement, not merely static endurance. The missionary calling encompasses both steadfastness and strategic withdrawal. Practical Application Believers facing opposition may, in good conscience, relocate for gospel advancement. The example of Acts 17:10 encourages: • Seeking fresh fields when previous avenues close. Conclusion Though occurring only once, the verb translated “went away” in Acts 17:10 encapsulates a vital principle of New Testament mission: Spirit-directed mobility that shelters the messengers and spreads the message. Forms and Transliterations απηεσαν απήεσαν ἀπῄεσαν apeesan apēesan apḗiesanLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |