Topical Bible: Paul: Visits Assos, Mitylene, Chios, Samos, Trogyllium

◄ Paul: Visits Assos, Mitylene, Chios, Samos, Trogyllium ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The Apostle Paul's missionary journeys are a significant aspect of the New Testament narrative, illustrating the spread of the Gospel across the Roman Empire. Among these journeys, Paul's travels through Assos, Mitylene, Chios, Samos, and Trogyllium are briefly documented in the Book of Acts, providing insight into his relentless dedication to evangelism and the establishment of early Christian communities.

Assos

Paul's visit to Assos is recorded in Acts 20:13-14. After spending time in Troas, Paul decided to travel to Assos on foot, while his companions sailed there. The decision to walk may have been for personal reflection or to engage in ministry along the way. The Berean Standard Bible states: "We went on ahead to the ship and sailed for Assos, intending to take Paul on board there. For these were his instructions, since he himself was going by land. And when he met us at Assos, we took him on board and went on to Mitylene."

Assos, located in the region of Mysia in Asia Minor, was a significant port city. Its strategic location made it an ideal place for Paul to connect with other travelers and spread the Gospel message.

Mitylene

Following Assos, Paul and his companions sailed to Mitylene, the chief city of the island of Lesbos. Acts 20:14 mentions this stop briefly, indicating the journey's progression. Mitylene was known for its cultural and intellectual heritage, providing Paul with opportunities to engage with diverse audiences.

Chios

The next leg of Paul's journey took him past the island of Chios. Acts 20:15 records, "Sailing on from there, we arrived the next day opposite Chios." While the text does not elaborate on any specific activities in Chios, the mention of the island highlights the route taken by Paul and his companions as they continued their mission.

Samos

Continuing their voyage, Paul and his team sailed to Samos. Acts 20:15 notes, "The following day we crossed over to Samos." Samos was an island known for its prosperity and was a hub of trade and culture. Although the biblical account does not provide details of Paul's activities on Samos, it is likely that he used the opportunity to connect with local communities and share the Gospel.

Trogyllium

The journey then brought Paul to Trogyllium, a promontory on the mainland opposite Samos. Acts 20:15 concludes this segment of the journey with, "And the day after that we came to Miletus." Trogyllium served as a brief stopover before reaching Miletus, where Paul would deliver a poignant farewell address to the Ephesian elders.

Paul's travels through these regions underscore his commitment to the Great Commission, as he tirelessly worked to establish and strengthen the early Church. His journey through Assos, Mitylene, Chios, Samos, and Trogyllium reflects the strategic and purposeful nature of his missionary endeavors, as he sought to reach both Jews and Gentiles with the message of Christ.

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Acts 20:13-16
And we went before to ship, and sailed to Assos, there intending to take in Paul: for so had he appointed, minding himself to go afoot.
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