Topical Bible: Paul: Visits Perga in Pamphylia

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The Apostle Paul's visit to Perga in Pamphylia is a significant event in the early missionary journeys recorded in the New Testament. This visit is primarily documented in the Book of Acts, which provides a detailed account of Paul's travels and the spread of the Gospel in the first century.

Biblical Context

Paul's journey to Perga is part of his first missionary journey, which he undertook with Barnabas. This journey is described in Acts 13 and 14. After being set apart by the Holy Spirit and commissioned by the church in Antioch, Paul and Barnabas set sail for Cyprus and then continued to the region of Pamphylia in Asia Minor.

Scriptural Reference

The specific mention of Paul's visit to Perga is found in Acts 13:13: "After setting sail from Paphos, Paul and his companions came to Perga in Pamphylia, where John left them to return to Jerusalem" . This verse highlights a pivotal moment in the journey, as John Mark, who had been accompanying them, decided to leave and return to Jerusalem. This departure would later become a point of contention between Paul and Barnabas (Acts 15:37-39).

Geographical and Historical Significance

Perga was an ancient city located in the region of Pamphylia, in what is now modern-day Turkey. It was a prominent city known for its temple of Artemis and its strategic location along the trade routes. The city's cultural and religious landscape presented both challenges and opportunities for the spread of the Gospel.

Missionary Strategy

Paul's visit to Perga, though briefly mentioned, is indicative of his broader missionary strategy. He often targeted major urban centers where he could engage with both Jewish and Gentile audiences. In Perga, as in other cities, Paul would have likely sought out the local synagogue to preach the message of Jesus Christ to the Jewish community first, as was his custom (Acts 13:5).

Challenges and Developments

The departure of John Mark in Perga marked a significant challenge for Paul and Barnabas. It tested their resolve and highlighted the difficulties inherent in missionary work. Despite this setback, Paul and Barnabas continued their journey, demonstrating their commitment to their divine calling.

Legacy and Impact

Paul's visit to Perga, though not extensively detailed in the biblical text, is part of the larger narrative of his missionary endeavors that laid the foundation for the spread of Christianity throughout the Roman Empire. His travels through regions like Pamphylia contributed to the establishment of early Christian communities and the dissemination of the Gospel message.

In summary, Paul's visit to Perga in Pamphylia is a testament to his dedication to the mission of spreading the Gospel, overcoming challenges, and establishing the early Church. This event, while a brief mention in the scriptural account, is a crucial link in the chain of Paul's missionary activities that would have lasting implications for the growth of Christianity.

Nave's Topical Index

Acts 13:13
Now 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

Library

Heralds of the Gospel
... It was during one of these visits of the apostles to his mother's home, that ... Paul
and his company continued their journey, going to Perga, in Pamphylia. ...
/.../white/the acts of the apostles/lesson 17 heralds of the.htm

Acts XIV
... the constant attendant of Jupiter in his terrestrial visits. ... long as it stands recorded
that Paul and Barnabas ... and having spoken the word in Perga, they went ...
/.../mcgarvey/a commentary on acts of the apostles/acts xiv.htm

The Church History of Eusebius. Index of Subjects.
... of, [1232]388; according to Origen, [1233]273; referred to as Paul's, 117, [1234 ...
of death of James, the Lord's brother, [1245]125-[1246]127; visits Rome, [1247 ...
/.../pamphilius/the life of constantine/the church history of eusebius.htm

His Missionary Travels
... Behind Perga rose the snow-clad peaks of the Taurus ... thrilling as are the notices
of Paul's career given in ... over, for instance, all his repeated visits to the ...
/.../stalker/the life of st paul/chapter vi his missionary travels.htm