Topical Encyclopedia Amphipolis was an ancient city located in the region of Macedonia, strategically situated on the eastern bank of the Strymon River, near the Aegean Sea. Its name, meaning "around the city," reflects its geographical position, encircled by the river on three sides. Amphipolis was a significant urban center in antiquity, known for its rich history and strategic importance.Historical Background Founded by the Athenians in 437 BC, Amphipolis quickly became a vital hub due to its proximity to the gold and silver mines of Mount Pangaion and its control over the bridge crossing the Strymon River. The city played a crucial role in various military campaigns and was a focal point during the Peloponnesian War. It later came under the control of the Macedonian Empire under Philip II, father of Alexander the Great. Biblical Significance Amphipolis is mentioned in the New Testament in the context of the Apostle Paul's second missionary journey. In Acts 17:1 , it is recorded: "When they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where there was a Jewish synagogue." This brief mention indicates that Paul, along with Silas, traveled through Amphipolis on their way to Thessalonica, a major city where they preached the Gospel. The mention of Amphipolis in the Book of Acts highlights the city's location along the Via Egnatia, a major Roman road that facilitated travel and trade across the region. This road was instrumental in the spread of Christianity, as it allowed for relatively swift movement between key cities in the Roman Empire. Cultural and Religious Context During the time of Paul's visit, Amphipolis was a melting pot of cultures, with influences from Greek, Macedonian, and Roman civilizations. The city would have been home to a diverse population, including Jews, Greeks, and Romans, each contributing to the cultural and religious tapestry of the area. The presence of a Jewish community in nearby Thessalonica suggests that there may have been some Jewish presence or influence in Amphipolis as well, although the Bible does not provide specific details about this. Archaeological Insights Modern archaeological excavations have uncovered remnants of Amphipolis, including city walls, a gymnasium, and a basilica, providing insights into its historical and cultural significance. The famous Lion of Amphipolis, a large funerary monument, stands as a testament to the city's ancient grandeur and its role as a significant center in the region. Legacy Amphipolis, though only briefly mentioned in the Scriptures, serves as a reminder of the early Christian mission's reach and the interconnectedness of the ancient world. Its strategic location on the Via Egnatia underscores the importance of infrastructure in the dissemination of the Gospel message, as Paul and his companions journeyed through the cities of Macedonia, spreading the teachings of Christ. Nave's Topical Index Acts 17:1Now when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where was a synagogue of the Jews: Nave's Topical Index Greek 295. Amphipolis -- Amphipolis, a city in Macedonia ... Amphipolis, a city in Macedonia. Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine Transliteration: Amphipolis Phonetic Spelling: (am-fip'-ol-is) Short Definition: Amphipolis ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/295.htm - 6k Library Paul and Silas in Macedonia Second Missionary Journey Chapter iv. Acts XVII The Epistles of Paul. Paul and Silas in Thessalonica and Berea. Acts xvii. 1, 2, 3 The Last Days of the Old Eastern World Resources What happened on Paul's second missionary journey? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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