Topical Encyclopedia Perga, an ancient city located in the region of Pamphylia in modern-day Turkey, holds significant importance in the early Christian missionary journeys, particularly those of the Apostle Paul. The city was a prominent center in the Roman province of Pamphylia, known for its strategic location and cultural influence. It was situated near the Cestrus River, which provided access to the Mediterranean Sea, making it a vital hub for trade and travel.Biblical Account The account of Paul preaching in Perga is primarily found in the Book of Acts. During Paul’s first missionary journey, he, along with Barnabas and John Mark, traveled to Perga after departing from Cyprus. Acts 13:13-14 states, "From Paphos, Paul and his companions sailed to Perga in Pamphylia, where John left them to return to Jerusalem. And from Perga they traveled inland to Pisidian Antioch." While the text does not provide extensive details about Paul's activities in Perga during this initial visit, it is noteworthy that John Mark chose to leave the missionary team at this point, returning to Jerusalem. This departure is later referenced in Acts 15:38, where Paul expresses his reluctance to take John Mark on subsequent journeys due to his earlier withdrawal. Paul and Barnabas's journey through Perga is significant as it marks a transition point in their mission. After their time in Perga, they proceeded to Pisidian Antioch, where Paul delivered a powerful sermon in the synagogue, as recorded in Acts 13:16-41. This sermon emphasized the fulfillment of God's promises through Jesus Christ and was pivotal in spreading the Gospel to the Gentiles. Cultural and Historical Context Perga was a city rich in Hellenistic culture and Roman influence. It was known for its impressive architecture, including a theater, a stadium, and the famous Temple of Artemis. The city's population was diverse, comprising Greeks, Romans, and indigenous Anatolian people. This cultural melting pot provided a unique backdrop for the spread of Christianity, as the message of the Gospel transcended ethnic and cultural boundaries. The presence of a Jewish community in Perga is implied by the missionary strategy of Paul and Barnabas, who often began their ministry in local synagogues. This approach allowed them to connect with both Jews and God-fearing Gentiles who were familiar with the Hebrew Scriptures. Theological Significance Paul's journey through Perga underscores the early Church's commitment to fulfilling the Great Commission, as instructed by Jesus in Matthew 28:19-20. The mission to Perga and beyond illustrates the expansion of the Gospel from a predominantly Jewish context to a broader Gentile audience. This shift is a testament to the inclusive nature of the Christian message, which offers salvation to all who believe, regardless of their cultural or ethnic background. The challenges faced by Paul and his companions, including the departure of John Mark, highlight the perseverance and dedication required in missionary work. Despite setbacks, the mission continued, driven by the conviction that the message of Christ was worth proclaiming to the ends of the earth. In summary, Perga serves as a significant waypoint in the Apostle Paul's missionary endeavors, reflecting both the geographical spread of early Christianity and the theological depth of its message. The brief mention of Perga in the Book of Acts invites readers to consider the broader narrative of the Gospel's journey across diverse lands and peoples. Nave's Topical Index Acts 13:13,14Now when Paul and his company loosed from Paphos, they came to Perga in Pamphylia: and John departing from them returned to Jerusalem. Nave's Topical Index Acts 14:25 Library The Gospel According to St. Mark The Church History of Eusebius. Index of Subjects. Resources What happened on Paul's first missionary journey? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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