Section 20:1–6
Paul encouraged the believers in Macedonia and Greece
In this section, Paul went to Macedonia and later went to Achaia, which Luke called by its popular name of “Greece.” He stayed there three months. Then he prepared to go to Syria by ship. 21:3–17 tells us that he also planned to go to Jerusalem. But when he was about to get on the ship, he heard that the Jews were planning to harm him. So he changed his route and went back through the province of Macedonia first. He stopped in the city of Philippi and then went by ship to the city of Troas.
Luke joined Paul and the others in Philippi. He began writing using the pronoun “we” in 20:6.
Other examples of headings for this section are:
Paul Goes to Macedonia and Greece (New Revised Standard Version)
-or-
Through Macedonia and Greece (New International Version)
-or-
Paul in Macedonia and Greece (New American Standard Bible)
Paragraph 20:1–6
20:1a
When the uproar had ended: Paul probably stayed in Ephesus a day or even several days after the uproar had ended. He did not leave Ephesus immediately after the city clerk dismissed the crowd (19:41). Other ways to translate this clause are:
After the uproar ceased (Revised Standard Version)
-or-
After those people stopped rioting
uproar: The Greek word that the Berean Standard Bible translates as uproar here refers to a noisy, agitated crowd. It has a similar meaning to the Greek word that the Berean Standard Bible translates as “disarray” in 19:29. Other ways to translate this word are:
disturbance (New Jerusalem Bible)
-or-
clamor/riot
disciples: This word refers to the believers in Ephesus. See how you translated it in 19:30.
20:1b
And after encouraging them: Paul probably encouraged the believers to not be afraid of those opposing them, to continue to believe in Jesus, and to live as believers should.
In some languages what was encouraged must be said. For example:
encouraging them ⌊to live by faith and not to be afraid⌋
-or-
encouraging them ⌊to follow/trust Jesus well⌋
he said goodbye to them: The Greek word that the Berean Standard Bible translates as said goodbye refers here to the usual ritual when leaving friends. At that time in that region, it probably was a hug, a kiss on the cheek, and words to bless the person with peace.
Different languages have different ways of doing the farewell ritual. Your language has a word or phrase for the farewell ritual. It may allow a general meaning that could include what Paul and the believers did then. You may want to use it here.
But you may want to describe the farewell ritual at that time. For example:
hugged, kissed, and said the farewell blessing
However, if this translation gives the wrong meaning, use your usual word or phrase.
left for Macedonia: The phrase left for refers to beginning to travel. Paul left on his journey to Macedonia. For example:
departed for Macedonia (Revised Standard Version)
Macedonia: This name refers to a province of cities and land of people who spoke Greek. It was ruled by Romans.
Luke already referred to Macedonia six times in Acts. You may have already indicated that this name refers to a province. You may not need to indicate again that it refers to a province here.
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