Acts 16:12
And from thence to Philippi, which is the chief city of that part of Macedonia, and a colony: and we were in that city abiding certain days. And from thence to Philippi, which is the chief city of that part of Macedonia, and a colony: and we were in that city abiding certain days.
This verse marks the first stage of the gospel advance beyond Asia Minor into Europe, in obedience to the vision at Troas of the man of Macedonia calling for help. Assured that the Lord had called them to preach the gospel in Macedonia, Paul with Silas and Timothy and Luke acted immediately, admitting no delay. They sailed from Troas with a straight course to Samothracia, the next day to Neapolis, and from there to Philippi. Philippi is the chief city of that part of Macedonia and a Roman colony, where they abode certain days.
The arrival of Paul and Silas with their companions at Philippi to bring the gospel into Europe appeared obscure and without hope. Paul had sought out Luke for his skill as a physician and secured his cooperation in gospel work, bringing him to Philippi and then leaving him there. Luke was one to whom the Lord had entrusted a special work. He labored with Paul at Philippi, and after Paul left he remained there for several years in double service as physician and gospel minister, a true medical missionary among the heathen. He did his medical part and prayed for the Lord's healing power to rest upon the afflicted, and his medical skill opened many doors and gave the gospel message access to hearts for preaching among the heathen.