Topical Encyclopedia
Cilicia, a region located in the southeastern part of Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey), holds a significant place in early Christian history. It is mentioned in the New Testament as part of the missionary journeys of the Apostle Paul and other early Christian figures. The region's strategic location along the Mediterranean coast made it a vital area for the spread of Christianity in the first century.
TarsusTarsus, the capital city of Cilicia, is notably recognized as the birthplace of the Apostle Paul, originally known as Saul.
Acts 9:11 refers to Paul as "Saul of Tarsus," highlighting his origins in this influential city. Tarsus was a center of learning and culture, which likely contributed to Paul's education and rhetorical skills. Although the New Testament does not explicitly mention a specific congregation in Tarsus, it is reasonable to infer that the city played a role in the early Christian movement due to Paul's connection and influence.
Antioch of PisidiaWhile not located within Cilicia proper, Antioch of Pisidia is often associated with the region due to its proximity and the missionary activities that connected these areas.
Acts 13:14-52 describes Paul and Barnabas preaching in the synagogue of Antioch, where they faced both acceptance and opposition. This event marks a significant moment in the spread of the Gospel to the Gentiles, a theme central to Paul's mission.
Paul's Missionary JourneysCilicia is mentioned in the context of Paul's missionary journeys. In
Acts 15:23, the apostles and elders in Jerusalem sent a letter to the Gentile believers in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia, addressing the issue of circumcision and the observance of the Mosaic Law. This letter was part of the decisions made at the Jerusalem Council, which aimed to resolve disputes and unify the early Church.
Furthermore,
Acts 15:41 notes that Paul traveled through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches. This indicates the presence of established Christian communities in the region, which Paul sought to support and encourage.
Cilician Christians in the Early ChurchThe presence of Cilician Christians is also implied in
Acts 6:9, which mentions a synagogue of the Freedmen, including Cyrenians, Alexandrians, and those from Cilicia and Asia, who disputed with Stephen. This suggests that Jews from Cilicia were part of the diaspora in Jerusalem and were engaged in religious discussions and debates, which would have included early Christian teachings.
ConclusionCilicia's role in the early Christian Church is primarily connected to the Apostle Paul and his missionary efforts. While specific congregations are not extensively detailed in the New Testament, the region's mention in key passages underscores its importance in the spread of Christianity during the first century. The strategic location and cultural significance of cities like Tarsus contributed to the dissemination of the Gospel and the establishment of Christian communities in the broader region.
Nave's Topical Index
Acts 15:41And he went through Syria and Cilicia, confirming the churches.
Nave's Topical Index
Library
The New Testament Canon in the First Three Centuries.
... The canonical list was not fixed immovably in the time ... The idea of the church was
that of inward fellowship ... in the first instance, to the congregations to whom ...
/.../davidson/the canon of the bible/chapter vi the new testament.htm
Period iv. The Age of the Consolidation of the Church: 200 to 324 ...
... In the fourth period of the Church under the heathen Empire, or the period of the
consolidation of the Church, the number of Christians increased so rapidly ...
/.../ayer/a source book for ancient church history/period iv the age of.htm
Resources
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