Topical Encyclopedia Pacatiana, a term not directly mentioned in the Bible, refers to a region in the Roman province of Asia Minor, which is modern-day Turkey. This area was part of the larger Roman administrative division known as the Diocese of Asia. During the Roman Empire, the province of Asia was divided into several smaller regions for administrative purposes, and Pacatiana was one of these subdivisions. It is important to understand the historical and geographical context of Pacatiana to appreciate its relevance to early Christianity and the spread of the Gospel.Historical Context Pacatiana was established as a distinct region during the administrative reforms of the Roman Empire, particularly under the reign of Emperor Diocletian in the late 3rd and early 4th centuries AD. These reforms aimed to improve governance and control over the vast territories of the empire. The region of Pacatiana included several important cities, such as Laodicea, Hierapolis, and Colossae, which are of particular interest to biblical scholars and historians. Biblical Significance While the term "Pacatiana" itself does not appear in the Bible, the cities within this region hold significant biblical importance. For instance, the city of Laodicea is one of the seven churches addressed in the Book of Revelation. In Revelation 3:14-22 , the church in Laodicea receives a message from the risen Christ, admonishing them for their lukewarm faith: "I know your deeds; you are neither cold nor hot. How I wish you were one or the other!" (Revelation 3:15). This passage highlights the spiritual challenges faced by the early Christian community in Laodicea. Colossae, another city within Pacatiana, is the recipient of Paul's Epistle to the Colossians. The letter addresses various theological issues and provides guidance for Christian living. In Colossians 1:9-10 , Paul writes, "For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you may walk in a manner worthy of the Lord and may please Him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God." Christian Heritage The region of Pacatiana played a crucial role in the early spread of Christianity. The cities within this area were centers of commerce and culture, providing fertile ground for the dissemination of the Gospel. The presence of established Christian communities in these cities is evidenced by the New Testament writings and the archaeological remains of early church structures. The challenges faced by the churches in Pacatiana, as reflected in the biblical texts, offer valuable insights into the spiritual and doctrinal issues of the early church. These challenges included combating false teachings, maintaining doctrinal purity, and fostering a vibrant faith amidst a diverse and often hostile cultural environment. Conclusion Understanding the historical and biblical context of Pacatiana enriches our comprehension of the early Christian church's development and the enduring message of the New Testament. The cities within this region, particularly Laodicea and Colossae, serve as poignant reminders of the spiritual vigilance required to maintain a faithful witness in a complex world. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia PACATIANApa-ka-ti-a'-na, pak-a-ti'-a-na (Pakatiane): About 295 A.D., when the province of Asia was broken up, two new provinces were formed, Phrygia Prima (Pacatiana), of which Laodicea was "the chiefest city" (subscription to 1 Timothy the King James Version), and Phrygia Secunda (Salutaris). Greek 3818 -- Pacatiana. Pacatiana. Phonetic Spelling: (pak-at-ee-an-ay') Short Definition: Pacatiana. Pacatiana. Feminine of an adjective of uncertain derivation ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3818.htm - 5k Library The Canons of the Synod Held in the City of Laodicea, in Phrygia ... Letters of the Emperors Valentinianus and Valens, Written to the ... The New Testament Synodical Epistle of the Synod in Illyricum Concerning the Faith. Historical Introduction. Unbroken Friendships. The Seven Ecumenical Councils Thesaurus Pacatiana... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia PACATIANA. pa-ka-ti-a'-na, pak-a-ti'-a- na (Pakatiane): About 295 AD, when the province of Asia was ... /p/pacatiana.htm - 6k Pace (3 Occurrences) Pa'arai (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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