Topical Encyclopedia In the context of the New Testament, "Asia" refers to the Roman province located in the western part of modern-day Turkey. This region was a significant area for the early Christian church and the missionary journeys of the Apostle Paul. The province included notable cities such as Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea, many of which are addressed in the Book of Revelation.Paul's ministry in Asia is particularly highlighted in the Book of Acts. During his third missionary journey, Paul spent a considerable amount of time in Ephesus, a major city in Asia, where he established a strong Christian community. Acts 19:10 notes, "This continued for two years, so that all the residents of Asia heard the word of the Lord, both Jews and Greeks." Paul's work in Ephesus was marked by significant spiritual activity, including the performance of miracles and the confrontation with local pagan practices. However, Paul's departure from Asia is a pivotal moment in his ministry. Acts 20:1 records, "When the uproar had ended, Paul sent for the disciples and, after encouraging them, said goodbye and set out for Macedonia." This departure followed a tumultuous period in Ephesus, where Paul's preaching had led to a riot instigated by silversmiths who felt their trade was threatened by the spread of Christianity (Acts 19:23-41). Before leaving, Paul gathered the Ephesian elders to deliver a heartfelt farewell address, which is recorded in Acts 20:17-38. In this address, Paul reflects on his ministry among them, warns of future challenges, and commends them to God. Acts 20:28 states, "Keep watch over yourselves and the entire flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which He purchased with His own blood." Paul's departure from Asia was not just a physical relocation but also a transition in his missionary strategy. He was determined to go to Jerusalem, despite knowing the dangers that awaited him there. Acts 20:22-23 reveals his resolve: "And now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there. I only know that in town after town the Holy Spirit warns me that chains and afflictions await me." The impact of Paul's ministry in Asia was profound, as evidenced by the strong Christian communities that continued to thrive in the region. His letters to the Ephesians and the Colossians, as well as the messages to the seven churches in Revelation, underscore the lasting influence of his work. Despite his departure, the seeds of faith he planted continued to grow, shaping the early church and spreading the Gospel throughout the Roman Empire. Nave's Topical Index Acts 20:16For Paul had determined to sail by Ephesus, because he would not spend the time in Asia: for he hurried, if it were possible for him, to be at Jerusalem the day of Pentecost. Nave's Topical Index Library First Missionary Journey Scripture The Work of Paul. The Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Ephesians The Mission of Paul and Silas to Macedonia. Acts XXVIII Sixteenth Sunday after Trinity Paul's Care and Prayer for the ... The Age of the Apostles (Ad 33-100) Chronology of the Apostolic Age. The Earlier New Testament Writings. The Epistle to the Ephesians Resources What happened on Paul's first missionary journey? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Alexander the coppersmith in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What was Jesus' message to the church in Pergamum in Revelation? | GotQuestions.org Asia: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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