The term "Adria" refers to the body of water known in ancient times as the Adriatic Sea, which is mentioned in the New Testament of the Bible. This sea is a significant geographical feature in the context of the Apostle Paul's journey to Rome, as recorded in the Book of Acts.

Biblical Reference:

The Sea of Adria is specifically mentioned in Acts 27:27, which describes the perilous voyage of Paul as a prisoner being transported to Rome. The passage states: "On the fourteenth night we were still being driven across the Adriatic Sea. About midnight the sailors sensed they were approaching land." (Acts 27:27). This reference highlights the treacherous conditions faced by Paul and his companions during their journey.

Geographical Context:

In the ancient world, the term "Adria" or "Adriatic Sea" encompassed a broader area than it does today. It included not only the modern Adriatic Sea, which lies between the eastern coast of Italy and the western coast of the Balkan Peninsula, but also extended to parts of the central Mediterranean Sea. This broader definition is important for understanding the route taken by Paul's ship, which was caught in a violent storm and eventually shipwrecked on the island of Malta.

Historical and Cultural Significance:

The Sea of Adria was a crucial maritime route for trade and travel in the Roman Empire. It connected the eastern and western parts of the empire, facilitating the movement of goods, people, and ideas. The sea was known for its unpredictable weather and dangerous conditions, as evidenced by the account of Paul's shipwreck.

The mention of the Sea of Adria in the Book of Acts underscores the historical accuracy of the biblical narrative, as it aligns with known geographical and maritime practices of the time. The account of Paul's journey provides insight into the challenges faced by early Christian missionaries and the providential care of God in guiding and protecting His servants.

Theological Implications:

The account of Paul's journey across the Sea of Adria is often seen as a testament to faith and divine intervention. Despite the severe storm and the threat of shipwreck, Paul remained steadfast in his faith, encouraging those on board with the assurance of God's promise of safety. This episode serves as a powerful illustration of God's sovereignty and faithfulness, themes that resonate throughout the biblical narrative.

In summary, the Sea of Adria, as mentioned in the New Testament, is a significant geographical and historical element that contributes to the understanding of the Apostle Paul's missionary journeys and the spread of early Christianity.Acts 27:27
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;
Nave's Topical Index

99. Adrias -- the Adriatic, the name of a sea
... Adria. From Adria (a place near its shore); the Adriatic sea (including the Ionian) --
Adria. (adria) -- 1 Occurrence. 98, 99. Adrias. 100 . Strong's Numbers
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/99.htm - 6k

Acts xxvi. 30-32
... the fourteenth night was come, as we were driven up and down in Adria, about midnight ...
of the ship, when they had let down the boat into the sea, under color as ...
/.../chrysostom/homilies on acts and romans/homily liii acts xxvi 30-32.htm

Perseverance of Saints.
... the fourteenth night was come, as we were driven up and down in Adria, about midnight ...
of the ship, when they had let down the boat into the sea, under color as ...
/.../finney/systematic theology/lecture xlvii perseverance of saints.htm

A Short Confession of Faith
... had been in for the last fortnight, tossing up and down in Adria, with Death ... Faith
is the true lifebelt that keeps us from being drowned in any stormy sea. ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture the acts/a short confession of faith.htm

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