21:19a
Paul greeted them: The Greek word that the Berean Standard Bible translates as greeted refers to the usual ritual when friends or acquaintances meet.
At the time the greeting was probably a hug, a kiss on the cheek, and words of greeting. Use the usual word or phrase for the usual ritual of greeting someone in your language.
recounted one by one: The Greek words are literally “was explaining/reporting one by one.” Paul probably told them all the important details of his ministry since his last report (15:12). For example:
gave a complete report (Good News Translation)
recounted: The Greek verb indicates that Paul’s report took some time. For example:
began to relate (New American Standard Bible)
21:19b
among the Gentiles: The word among indicates that some Gentiles believed in Jesus. They were not just from one group of Gentiles, but some of them believed from each place that Paul went.
the Gentiles: The word Gentiles refers to non-Jewish people. Here it refers to the many language groups that Paul visited and preached to. Other ways to translate this phrase are:
non-Jewish people (God’s Word)
-or-
those who were not Jews
See how you translated this phrase in 4:27 or 18:6.
through his ministry: The word through indicates that Paul’s ministry was the way that God did wonderful things among the Gentiles.
ministry: The Greek word that the Berean Standard Bible translates as ministry describes the work given to a servant or slave. Here it refers to the work that Paul did for God. This included preaching, teaching, praying, and helping others. Other ways to translate this word are:
teaching/preaching the gospel
-or-
serving him/God
-or-
work (Good News Translation)
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