Topical Encyclopedia The mention of a ship from Adramyttium in the New Testament provides a glimpse into the maritime commerce of the ancient world, particularly during the time of the Apostle Paul. Adramyttium, a city located on the northwest coast of Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey), was known for its bustling port and active participation in trade across the Mediterranean Sea.Biblical Reference: The primary biblical reference to a ship from Adramyttium is found in the Book of Acts. In Acts 27:2 , it is recorded: "We boarded an Adramyttian ship about to sail for ports along the coast of Asia, and we put out to sea. Aristarchus, a Macedonian from Thessalonica, was with us." This passage is part of the narrative describing Paul's journey to Rome as a prisoner. The ship from Adramyttium was likely engaged in routine commercial activities, transporting goods and passengers along the coast of Asia Minor. Historical and Geographical Context: Adramyttium was a significant city in the Roman province of Asia, strategically located near the Aegean Sea. Its port facilitated trade routes that connected various parts of the Roman Empire, making it a hub for merchants and travelers. The city's economy would have been heavily reliant on maritime commerce, with ships like the one mentioned in Acts playing a crucial role in the transportation of goods such as grain, olive oil, wine, and other commodities. Cultural and Economic Significance: In the ancient world, ships were vital for commerce, enabling the exchange of goods, culture, and ideas across vast distances. The ship from Adramyttium represents the interconnectedness of the Roman Empire, where cities like Adramyttium served as nodes in a complex network of trade routes. The presence of such ships in biblical narratives underscores the historical reality of the early Christian movement, which spread along these very trade routes. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, the mention of the Adramyttian ship in Acts highlights the providence of God in the spread of the Gospel. Despite the challenges and dangers of sea travel, Paul's journey to Rome was part of God's divine plan to bring the message of Christ to the heart of the Roman Empire. The ship, a tool of commerce, becomes an instrument in the unfolding of God's redemptive history. Conclusion: The ship from Adramyttium, though a minor detail in the grand narrative of Scripture, provides valuable insight into the historical and cultural context of the New Testament. It serves as a reminder of the ways in which God uses the ordinary elements of human life, such as commerce and travel, to accomplish His extraordinary purposes. Nave's Topical Index Acts 27:2And entering into a ship of Adramyttium, we launched, meaning to sail by the coasts of Asia; one Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica, being with us. Nave's Topical Index Library The Iranian Conquest The Power of Assyria at Its Zenith; Esarhaddon and Assur-Bani-Pal Resources Is there such a thing as a necessary evil? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Jonah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What is the meaning of “Cast your bread upon the waters” in Ecclesiastes 11:1? | GotQuestions.org Ship: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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