Pisidia is a region of ancient Asia Minor, located in what is now modern-day Turkey. It is situated north of Pamphylia, west of Lycaonia, and south of Phrygia. The region is characterized by its rugged terrain and mountainous landscape, which historically made it a challenging area for travel and communication.

Biblical References

Pisidia is mentioned in the New Testament, specifically in the Acts of the Apostles. The Apostle Paul, during his first missionary journey, traveled through Pisidia. In Acts 13:13-14 , it is recorded: "From Paphos, Paul and his companions sailed to Perga in Pamphylia, where John left them to return to Jerusalem. And from Perga they traveled inland to Pisidian Antioch, where they went into the synagogue on the Sabbath and sat down."

Pisidian Antioch, a prominent city in the region, served as a significant location for Paul's missionary activities. It was here that Paul delivered a powerful sermon in the synagogue, addressing both Jews and God-fearing Gentiles. His message centered on the fulfillment of God's promises through Jesus Christ, as recorded in Acts 13:16-41. This sermon led to a mixed reaction, with some embracing the message and others opposing it.

Historical and Cultural Context

Pisidia was known for its diverse population, including native Pisidians, Greeks, and Roman settlers. The region was incorporated into the Roman province of Galatia in 25 BC, which brought increased Roman influence and infrastructure development. Pisidian Antioch, in particular, became a Roman colony, which contributed to its prominence and strategic importance.

The rugged terrain of Pisidia made it a haven for bandits and insurgents, which posed challenges for travelers and settlers. Despite these difficulties, the region's cities, such as Antioch, became centers of commerce and culture, benefiting from the Roman road system that facilitated trade and communication.

Religious Significance

The presence of Paul and Barnabas in Pisidia highlights the region's role in the early spread of Christianity. The mixed response to Paul's preaching in Pisidian Antioch reflects the broader pattern of acceptance and resistance encountered by early Christian missionaries. The synagogue in Antioch served as a focal point for Paul's outreach, emphasizing the initial strategy of engaging with Jewish communities before reaching out to Gentiles.

The account of Paul's journey through Pisidia underscores the challenges faced by early Christians in spreading the Gospel across diverse and often hostile territories. It also illustrates the perseverance and dedication of the apostles in fulfilling the Great Commission, as they navigated both geographical and cultural obstacles to proclaim the message of salvation through Jesus Christ.Pisid'ia (2 Occurrences)

Acts 13:14
and they having gone through from Perga, came to Antioch of Pisidia, and having gone into the synagogue on the sabbath-day, they sat down,
(See RSV)

Acts 14:24
And having passed through Pisidia, they came to Pamphylia,
(See RSV)

Pisid'ia (2 Occurrences)
Pisid'ia. Pisidia, Pisid'ia. Pisidian . Multi-Version Concordance
Pisid'ia (2 Occurrences). Acts 13:14 and they having gone through ...
/p/pisid'ia.htm - 6k

Pisidia (2 Occurrences)

/p/pisidia.htm - 21k

Pisidian (1 Occurrence)

/p/pisidian.htm - 6k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus