Matthew Henry Commentary Acts 28:11-16

"And after three months we set sail in a ship of Alexandria which had wintered in the island, whose sign was The Twin Brothers. And touching at Syracuse, we tarried there three days. And from thence we made a circuit, and arrived at Rhegium: and after one day a south wind sprang up, and on the second day we came to Puteoli; where we found brethren, and were entreated to tarry with them seven days: and so we came to Rome. 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. And when we entered into Rome, Paul was suffered to abide by himself with the soldier that guarded him." — Acts 28:11-16 (ASV)

The common events of traveling are seldom worthy of being told; but the comfort of communion with the saints, and kindness shown by friends, deserve particular mention. The Christians at Rome were so far from being ashamed of Paul, or afraid of acknowledging him, because he was a prisoner, that they were all the more careful to show him respect. He had great comfort in this.

And if our friends are kind to us, God puts it into their hearts, and we must give Him the glory. When we see those even in unfamiliar places, who bear Christ's name, fear God, and serve Him, we should lift up our hearts to heaven in thanksgiving. How many great men have made their entry into Rome, crowned and in triumph, who really were plagues to the world!

But here a good man makes his entry into Rome, chained as a poor captive, who was a greater blessing to the world than any other mere man. Is this not enough to make us lose our high regard for worldly favor forever? This may encourage God's prisoners, that He can give them favor in the eyes of those who hold them captive.

When God does not soon deliver His people out of bondage, yet makes it easy for them, or makes them at ease under it, they have reason to be thankful.