After this, we started on our way up to Jerusalem. Some of the disciples from Caesarea accompanied us and brought us to the home of Mnason, where we were to stay. He was a man from Cyprus and one of the early disciples. (Acts 21:15-16)
Mnason had been a respected disciple for many years. His name indicates he was Greek, Like Paul, he was a Hellenistic Jew (a Jew influenced by Greek culture); well-educated, well-versed, well-to-do, and would’ve enjoyed discussing Scripture. He lived somewhere between Caesarea and Jerusalem in a home large enough to house Paul and his entourage.
His name means remembering. Luke mentioned him because he was a man worth remembering. Likely he became a Christian shortly after Steven was stoned to death in Jerusalem and the persecuted Jewish Christians fled to Cyprus where Mnason lived. He was probably one of the missionaries from Cyprus who told Greek Gentiles about Jesus in Antioch during the early days of the church. (Acts 11:19-20). He wasn’t prejudiced and welcomed Paul’s entourage, many of whom were Gentiles, lovingly into his home. Mnason was most likely over fifty but didn’t stop serving God—he could’ve insisted one of the younger disciples care for Paul.
Will we be remembered for our hospitality, loving those with different customs and looks than ours, and serving God until we die? If so, God will bless us as he did Mnason.
Father, I praise you for pointing out great people. Help me spread God’s love, be hospitable, act like Jesus, and work out my mission as Mnason did. Keep me and my loved ones safe today and bind us closer to you. In Jesus’ name, I pray, amen.
I always learn so much when I do devotions. I had never heard of Mnason. When I saw his name in the title, I thought that you misspelled his name. Now I know his name and know that he was not prejudiced, and was hospitable to Paul and those that traveled with Paul. I know that he spread God’s love and I hope I can do everything that he has done in the name of God.
Thanks for your comment. I can attest to your wonderful hospitality! You definitely have that gift. Blessings, Jody