Topical Encyclopedia Tarsus, an ancient city located in the region of Cilicia, holds significant importance in the New Testament narrative, particularly in the life of the Apostle Paul. Known for its rich history and as a center of learning and culture, Tarsus was the birthplace of Paul, originally named Saul, a Roman citizen and a devout Jew from the tribe of Benjamin (Acts 22:3). The city was renowned for its educational institutions, rivaling those of Athens and Alexandria, which likely contributed to Paul's extensive knowledge and rhetorical skills.The account of Paul being brought from Tarsus by Barnabas is a pivotal moment in the early Christian church. After Paul's dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus, he began preaching the gospel, which led to tension and threats against his life. Consequently, the disciples sent him away to Tarsus for his safety (Acts 9:30). During this period, Paul likely spent time in reflection, study, and preparation for his future ministry. Barnabas, a respected leader in the early church, recognized Paul's potential and the calling God had placed on his life. As the church in Antioch began to grow and thrive, Barnabas saw the need for capable leaders to teach and guide the new believers. Remembering Paul, Barnabas traveled to Tarsus to seek him out. Acts 11:25-26 records this significant event: "Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, and when he found him, he brought him back to Antioch. So for a whole year they met with the church and taught large numbers of people. The disciples were first called Christians at Antioch." This act of bringing Paul from Tarsus to Antioch was instrumental in the spread of Christianity. Under the guidance of Barnabas and Paul, the church in Antioch became a vibrant center of Christian teaching and missionary activity. It was from Antioch that Paul and Barnabas were later commissioned by the Holy Spirit for their first missionary journey (Acts 13:2-3), marking the beginning of Paul's extensive missionary work throughout the Roman Empire. The relationship between Barnabas and Paul exemplifies the importance of mentorship and encouragement within the Christian community. Barnabas, whose name means "son of encouragement," played a crucial role in affirming Paul's ministry and facilitating his integration into the early church. This partnership not only strengthened the church in Antioch but also laid the groundwork for the expansion of the gospel to the Gentiles. Tarsus, therefore, is not only significant as Paul's birthplace but also as a place of preparation and transition in his life. The city's influence on Paul, combined with Barnabas's encouragement, contributed to the shaping of one of Christianity's most influential apostles. Nave's Topical Index Acts 11:25,26Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul: Nave's Topical Index Library The Epistles of St. Paul To the Regions Beyond The Work Awaiting the Worker The Christian Church at Antioch The Epistles of Paul The Gospel Message in Antioch Days of Preparation Paul a Prisoner The Apostle of the Gentiles. Hints to Teachers and Questions for Pupils Resources Who was Paul in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Gamaliel in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What is “the Way” in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Tarsus: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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