Where was Paul’s Third Missionary Journey?
The third missionary journey of the Apostle Paul is one of the most significant periods in his life and ministry. During this journey, Paul traveled extensively, spreading the Gospel and establishing churches across various regions. Understanding the route and destinations of this journey provides valuable insights into the spread of Christianity during the first century AD. Let’s delve into the details of Paul’s third missionary journey and its impact on the early Christian church.
The third missionary journey of Paul began around 53 AD and lasted for approximately two years. After his second missionary journey, Paul had a vision from the Lord, instructing him to return to Jerusalem. This vision marked the beginning of his third journey, which was primarily focused on reaching the eastern provinces of the Roman Empire.
Starting Point: Antioch of Pisidia
Paul’s third missionary journey commenced in Antioch of Pisidia, a city in modern-day Turkey. Here, he had previously preached the Gospel and had seen many converts. This city served as the starting point for his journey to the east.
Route: From Antioch to Asia Minor
Paul traveled through Asia Minor, visiting cities such as Derbe, Lystra, Iconium, and Pisidian Antioch. In these cities, he continued to spread the Gospel and strengthen the churches he had established during his previous journeys. Paul also faced opposition and persecution in some of these regions, but he remained resilient and persistent in his mission.
Visit to Greece
After completing his travels in Asia Minor, Paul made his way to Greece. This included visits to cities such as Corinth, Ephesus, and Athens. In Corinth, Paul spent a considerable amount of time, establishing a strong church and writing two of his epistles – 1 Corinthians and 2 Corinthians. In Ephesus, he faced fierce opposition from the local silversmiths, who were threatened by the decline in their business due to the popularity of Christianity. Despite the challenges, Paul remained committed to his mission.
Return to Jerusalem
Towards the end of his third missionary journey, Paul made his way back to Jerusalem. This journey was marked by a visit to the city of Jerusalem, where he faced trials and tribulations. However, it was also a time of great spiritual growth and fulfillment for Paul. His visit to Jerusalem laid the foundation for his future fourth missionary journey.
Conclusion
Paul’s third missionary journey was a pivotal period in his life and the spread of Christianity. During this journey, he traveled across various regions, establishing churches, facing opposition, and witnessing the growth of the early Christian church. The destinations and route of this journey provide a clearer picture of the geographical spread of Christianity during the first century AD. As we reflect on Paul’s third missionary journey, we are reminded of the power of the Gospel and the dedication of its early proponents in spreading the message of salvation to the world.
