Acts 17:2 - Coke's Commentary on the Holy Bible

Three sabbath days reasoned with them, &c.— It has been hence concluded, that St. Paul continued but threeweeks at Thessalonica: but as it evidently appears, that while he was in this city he not only wrought with his own hands to procure subsistence, (1 Thessalonians 2:9; 1 Thessalonians 2 Thessalonians 2. Thess. Acts 3:8.) but also received supplies more than once from Philippi, (comp. Philippians 4:16.) it seems much more probable, that after the Jews appeared so obstinate in their infidelity, as most of them did, he desisted from disputing or teaching in their synagogue after the third sabbath; and then preached for some time among the Gentiles, before the assault mentioned, Acts 17:5 which drove him from this city. It appears that, during his stay here, great numbers of Gentile idolaters received the gospel with remarkable zeal and affection: 1 Thessalonians 1:9-10 so that in the midst of their persecutions a church was founded which became famous in all Macedonia and Achaia; (1 Thessalonians 1:5-8.) and though the apostle after having treated the new converts with extraordinary tenderness during his abode with them, was quickly forced to leave them, (1 Thessalonians 2:7; 1 Thessalonians 2:20.) and they about the same time lost some Christian brethren by death, who were dear to them, and might have been remarkably useful; (1 Thessalonians 4:13; 1 Thessalonians 4:18.) yet they continued to behave so well, that St. Paul received a comfortable accountof them by Timothy, and they afterwards advanced in faith, love, and courage, amid their growing trials. See 2 Thessalonians 1.