Topical Encyclopedia Pisidia, a region in the southern part of Asia Minor, is notable in the New Testament for its connection to the Apostle Paul's missionary journeys. This area, characterized by its rugged terrain and diverse population, played a significant role in the spread of early Christianity. The most prominent city in Pisidia mentioned in the Bible is Antioch of Pisidia, which served as a key location during Paul's first missionary journey.Paul's First Missionary Journey Paul's visit to Pisidia is recorded in the Book of Acts. After departing from Cyprus, Paul and his companions, including Barnabas and John Mark, traveled to the mainland of Asia Minor. They arrived at Perga in Pamphylia, where John Mark left them to return to Jerusalem (Acts 13:13). From Perga, Paul and Barnabas continued their journey northward into the region of Pisidia, arriving at Antioch in Pisidia. Preaching in Antioch of Pisidia In Antioch of Pisidia, Paul and Barnabas entered the synagogue on the Sabbath, as was their custom. Paul was invited to speak, and he delivered a powerful sermon that recounted the history of Israel, culminating in the coming of Jesus as the promised Savior. Paul proclaimed, "Therefore let it be known to you, brothers, that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you" (Acts 13:38). He emphasized that through Jesus, everyone who believes is justified from everything that could not be justified by the Law of Moses. The message was well received by many, and the following Sabbath, almost the whole city gathered to hear the word of the Lord (Acts 13:44). However, the success of their preaching also stirred up opposition. Some of the Jewish leaders, filled with jealousy, began to contradict Paul and Barnabas and incited persecution against them. Despite this, Paul and Barnabas boldly declared, "It was necessary to speak the word of God to you first. But since you reject it and do not consider yourselves worthy of eternal life, we now turn to the Gentiles" (Acts 13:46). Impact and Departure The decision to turn to the Gentiles marked a significant moment in the early Christian mission, highlighting the inclusive nature of the Gospel. Many Gentiles in Antioch of Pisidia rejoiced and believed, and the word of the Lord spread throughout the region (Acts 13:48-49). However, due to the increasing opposition, Paul and Barnabas were eventually expelled from the city. They shook the dust off their feet as a testimony against their persecutors and traveled to Iconium (Acts 13:51). Legacy of Paul's Visit Paul's visit to Pisidia, particularly Antioch, was instrumental in establishing a Christian presence in the region. The events in Pisidia exemplify the challenges and triumphs of early missionary work, as well as the transition of the Gospel message from a predominantly Jewish audience to a broader Gentile world. The account of Paul's visit to Pisidia serves as a testament to the power of the Gospel to transcend cultural and ethnic boundaries, fulfilling the Great Commission to make disciples of all nations. Nave's Topical Index Acts 13:14But when they departed from Perga, they came to Antioch in Pisidia, and went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and sat down. Nave's Topical Index Acts 14:24 Library Chronology of the Apostolic Age. The Acts of the Apostles Heralds of the Gospel The Acts of the Apostles. Paul's Missionary Labors. Acts XIV His Missionary Travels General Index to Socrates' Ecclesiastical History. The Historical Books. 1 the New Testament... Resources What is the significance of Antioch in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWas the Apostle Paul actually a false prophet? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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