Albert Barnes Commentary Acts 28:15

"And from thence the brethren, when they heard of us, came to meet us as far as The Market of Appius and The Three Taverns; whom when Paul saw, he thanked God, and took courage." — Acts 28:15 (ASV)

And from there. From Puteoli.

When the brothers heard of us. The Christians who were at Rome.

As far as Appii forum. This was a city about fifty-six miles from Rome.

The remains of an ancient city are still seen there. It is on the borders of the Pontine marshes.

The city was built on the celebrated Appian Way, a road extending from Rome to Capua. This road was constructed by Appius Claudius, who probably also founded the city.

It was called the forum or market-place of Appius because it served as a convenient stopping point for travellers on the Appian Way to refresh themselves. It was also a well-known gathering place for peddlers and merchants. (See Horace, b. i. sat. 5.3).

And The three taverns. This location was about eight or ten miles nearer to Rome than Appii Forum. (Cicero ad Att. ii. 10).

It undoubtedly received its name because it was well-known as a place of refreshment on the Appian Way.

Probably, the greater part of the company of Christians remained at this place, while the remainder went forward to meet Paul and to attend him on his way.

The Christians at Rome had doubtless heard much of Paul. His epistle to them had been written around AD 57, approximately five years before this time.

The interest the Roman Christians felt in the apostle was thus manifested by their coming so far to meet him, though he was a prisoner.

He thanked God. He had long ardently desired to see the Christians of Rome (Romans 1:9–11; Romans 15:23, 32).

He was now grateful to God that the object of his long desire was at last granted to him, and that he was permitted to see them, though in bonds.

And took courage. From their society and counsel. The presence and counsel of Christian brothers is often of inestimable value in encouraging and strengthening us in the toils and trials of life.

On "courage," see also Joshua 1:6, 7, 9; 1 Samuel 30:6; Psalms 27:14.