Definition: But when the fourteenth night was come, as we were driven up and down in Adria, about midnight the shipmen deemed that they drew near to some country;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Acts 27:27. It's a really important moment in the early church’s history! Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Situation: They were traveling: The story is about a group of Christians who had been traveling for a while. It was nighttime: They were on a journey under the cover of darkness. “The fourteenth night” : This refers to a special, significant time in Jewish tradition – the fourteenth of the month, when the Temple was closed and people were discouraged from praying. It’s considered a time of mourning and spiritual heaviness. Shipmen decided: A captain or leader of the ship made the decision that they were getting close to a specific place. What it means in plain language: “Suddenly, as they were traveling under the cloak of night, the shipmen realized they were approaching a region that seemed…different.” The Significance – It’s About Recognizing God's Presence: This is where it gets really powerful. The phrase "as we were driven up and down in Adria" suggests this was happening while they were traveling along the Adriatic Sea (a major sea route). Here's what it means: “Driven up and down” : This imagery symbolizes a journey of repentance and seeking God’s guidance. They were moving forward, but also feeling a sense of unease or being drawn towards something. “Adria” : This is the name of the Adriatic Sea – a vital sea route connecting Greece to Italy and the Levant. The Overall Message: This verse highlights that even though they were traveling, they were consciously aware of God’s presence in their lives. They weren't just passively moving; they were actively seeking Him, and they sensed His guidance. It was a moment of recognition that God was working behind the scenes. In short: The shipmen realized they were approaching a place that seemed to have a special significance – perhaps a place where God’s presence was strongest – and this realization sparked a sense of hope and direction for the group. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific aspect of this passage in more detail? Connect it to a particular biblical story or theme?