Mile'tus, an ancient city located on the western coast of Asia Minor, is of significant historical and biblical importance. Situated near the mouth of the Maeander River, it was a prominent city in the region of Ionia. In the context of the New Testament, Mile'tus is most notably mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles.

Biblical References:

1. Acts 20:15-17 : Mile'tus is mentioned in the account of the Apostle Paul's third missionary journey. After leaving Troas, Paul sailed past Ephesus to avoid spending time in Asia, as he was hastening to be in Jerusalem for the day of Pentecost. Instead, he stopped at Mile'tus and sent for the elders of the church in Ephesus to meet him there. This meeting is significant as Paul delivered a heartfelt farewell address to the Ephesian elders, warning them of future challenges and encouraging them to shepherd the church of God.

"Sailing on from there, we arrived the next day opposite Chios. The following day we crossed over to Samos, and on the day after that we came to Mile'tus. Paul had decided to sail past Ephesus to avoid spending time in the province of Asia, because he was in a hurry to reach Jerusalem, if possible, by the day of Pentecost. From Mile'tus, Paul sent to Ephesus for the elders of the church."

2. 2 Timothy 4:20 : Mile'tus is also mentioned in Paul's second letter to Timothy, where he notes that he left Trophimus sick in Mile'tus. This brief mention provides insight into the challenges faced by early Christian missionaries and the reality of illness and hardship in their travels.

"Erastus has remained at Corinth, and I left Trophimus sick in Mile'tus."

Historical and Cultural Context:

Mile'tus was a major port city and a center of trade and culture in the ancient world. It was known for its four harbors and its strategic location, which facilitated commerce and interaction with various cultures. The city was also famous for its contributions to philosophy and science, being the birthplace of several pre-Socratic philosophers, including Thales, Anaximander, and Anaximenes.

During the Roman period, Mile'tus continued to thrive as a significant urban center. The city's infrastructure, including its theater, agora, and temples, reflects its prosperity and importance in the region.

Theological Significance:

The events at Mile'tus, particularly Paul's address to the Ephesian elders, hold deep theological significance. In his farewell speech, Paul emphasizes the role of church leaders as shepherds, entrusted with the care of God's flock. He warns of false teachers and the need for vigilance, underscoring the importance of sound doctrine and pastoral care. This passage highlights the early church's challenges and the apostolic concern for maintaining the integrity of the Christian faith.

Paul's mention of leaving Trophimus sick in Mile'tus also serves as a reminder of the human frailty and the trials faced by those who spread the Gospel. It reflects the reality that even the most dedicated servants of God are not immune to suffering and adversity.

In summary, Mile'tus serves as a backdrop for significant events in the early Christian church, illustrating the missionary zeal of the Apostle Paul and the pastoral concerns that shaped the early Christian communities.Mile'tus (3 Occurrences)

Acts 20:15
and thence having sailed, on the morrow we came over-against Chios, and the next day we arrived at Samos, and having remained in Trogyllium, on the following day we came to Miletus,
(See RSV)

Acts 20:17
And from Miletus, having sent to Ephesus, he called for the elders of the assembly,
(See RSV)

2 Timothy 4:20
Erastus did remain in Corinth, and Trophimus I left in Miletus infirm;
(See RSV)

Mile'tus (3 Occurrences)
Mile'tus. Miletus, Mile'tus. Military . Multi-Version Concordance
Mile'tus (3 Occurrences). Acts 20:15 and thence having sailed, on ...
/m/mile'tus.htm - 7k

Miletus (3 Occurrences)

/m/miletus.htm - 9k

Military (44 Occurrences)

/m/military.htm - 21k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus