Topical Encyclopedia Geographical and Historical Context Derbe was an ancient city located in the region of Lycaonia, in what is now modern-day Turkey. It was situated near the Taurus Mountains and was part of the Roman province of Galatia. Derbe was a significant city during the time of the Apostle Paul, serving as a key location in his missionary journeys. The city was known for its strategic position along the Roman road system, which facilitated travel and communication across the region. Biblical Significance Derbe holds a notable place in the New Testament as a city visited by the Apostle Paul during his missionary endeavors. It is mentioned specifically in the Acts of the Apostles, which details Paul's journeys to spread the Gospel and establish early Christian communities. Paul and Silas in Derbe Paul's visit to Derbe is recorded in the Book of Acts. After facing persecution in other cities, Paul and his companions, including Silas, traveled to Derbe to continue their mission. Acts 16:1 states, "Paul came to Derbe and then to Lystra, where a disciple named Timothy lived, whose mother was a Jewish believer but whose father was a Greek." This passage highlights Derbe as a place where Paul encountered Timothy, a young disciple who would become a significant figure in the early Church and a close companion of Paul. The visit to Derbe was part of Paul's second missionary journey, during which he sought to strengthen the churches he had previously established and to spread the message of Christ to new regions. The city of Derbe, unlike some other locations, does not record any specific opposition or persecution faced by Paul and Silas, suggesting a more receptive environment for their ministry. Theological Implications The account of Paul and Silas in Derbe underscores the importance of perseverance and dedication in the face of adversity. Despite previous challenges, Paul continued to preach the Gospel, demonstrating unwavering commitment to his calling. The mention of Timothy in connection with Derbe also highlights the role of mentorship and discipleship in the early Church. Timothy's presence signifies the passing of the apostolic mission to a new generation of believers, ensuring the continuity and growth of the Christian faith. Legacy and Influence Derbe's inclusion in the biblical narrative serves as a testament to the spread of Christianity beyond the Jewish context and into the Gentile world. The city's role in Paul's missionary journeys reflects the broader mission of the early Church to reach diverse populations with the message of salvation through Jesus Christ. Derbe, as a site of early Christian activity, contributes to the understanding of the geographical and cultural expansion of the Gospel during the first century. In summary, Derbe is remembered as a city that played a crucial role in the missionary work of Paul and Silas, serving as a backdrop for the development of early Christian leadership and the dissemination of the Gospel message. Nave's Topical Index Acts 16:1Then came he to Derbe and Lystra: and, behold, a certain disciple was there, named Timotheus, the son of a certain woman, which was a Jewess, and believed; but his father was a Greek: Nave's Topical Index Library The Mission of Paul and Silas to Macedonia. Exalting the Cross From Antioch to the Destruction of Jerusalem. The Epistles of Paul Acts XVI The Epistles of Paul. Acts xv. 35 The Epistle to the Galatians The Acts of the Apostles The Extension of the Church Throughout the World Resources What happened on Paul's first missionary journey? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Gaius in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What happened on Paul's second missionary journey? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |