Mitylene, the chief city of the island of Lesbos in the northeastern Aegean Sea, holds a notable place in the New Testament narrative due to the Apostle Paul's visit during his third missionary journey. This city, known for its strategic location and vibrant culture, is mentioned in the context of Paul's travels as recorded in the Acts of the Apostles.

Biblical Reference:

The account of Paul's visit to Mitylene is found in Acts 20:14: "When he met us at Assos, we took him aboard and went on to Mitylene." . This brief mention occurs as part of a larger travel itinerary that details Paul's journey from Greece back to Jerusalem. After spending time in Troas, Paul traveled overland to Assos, where he rejoined his companions who had sailed ahead. From Assos, they continued by sea to Mitylene.

Historical and Cultural Context:

Mitylene was a prominent city in the ancient world, known for its political significance and cultural contributions. It was a free city under Roman rule, which allowed it a degree of autonomy. The city was renowned for its intellectual and artistic achievements, producing notable figures such as the poet Sappho and the statesman Pittacus.

During Paul's time, Mitylene would have been a bustling hub of commerce and culture, providing a strategic stopover for travelers navigating the Aegean Sea. The city's harbor facilitated trade and communication, making it an ideal location for Paul and his companions to rest and resupply during their journey.

Paul's Missionary Journey:

Paul's visit to Mitylene is part of his third missionary journey, a period marked by extensive travel and the strengthening of early Christian communities. This journey is characterized by Paul's dedication to spreading the Gospel and encouraging the fledgling churches he had established in previous missions.

While the biblical text does not provide specific details about Paul's activities in Mitylene, it is reasonable to infer that, consistent with his mission, he would have sought opportunities to preach and engage with both Jews and Gentiles in the city. Paul's pattern of ministry often involved teaching in synagogues, engaging in public discourse, and building relationships with local believers.

Significance in Early Christianity:

The mention of Mitylene in the Acts of the Apostles underscores the expansive reach of Paul's missionary efforts and the interconnectedness of the early Christian communities across the Mediterranean region. Each city visited by Paul, including Mitylene, represents a link in the chain of the early Church's growth and the spread of the Gospel message.

Mitylene's inclusion in the biblical narrative, though brief, highlights the city's role as a waypoint in the broader mission of the Apostle Paul. It serves as a testament to the dynamic and far-reaching nature of early Christian evangelism, as well as the diverse cultural landscapes in which the early Church took root.Acts 20:14,15
And when he met with us at Assos, we took him in, and came to Mitylene.
Nave's Topical Index

General Index to Socrates' Ecclesiastical History.
... Cucusus, Paul, bishop of Constantinople strangled at, [640]54 ... Edesius, visits 'India'
(Ethiopia), aids in the ... Evagrius, bishop of Mitylene, deposed, [968]70 ...
/.../general index to socrates ecclesiastical.htm

What happened on Paul's third missionary journey? | GotQuestions.org

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