Asia
Summary
In the New Testament, a Roman province in western Asia Minor (modern Turkey) containing cities such as Ephesus, Smyrna, and Pergamum, where Paul extensively ministered and the seven churches of Revelation were located.
☩Geographic Extent
In the New Testament, 'Asia' does not refer to the continent but to a Roman province occupying the western portion of Asia Minor, bounded by Bithynia, Galatia, and Pamphylia. The province included the famous cities of Ephesus (its capital), Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea—the seven churches to which John addressed his letters in Revelation. The region was densely populated, wealthy, and strategically located for commerce and travel.
☩Paul's Ministry in Asia
On his second missionary journey, Paul and Silas were 'forbidden by the Holy Spirit to preach the word in Asia,' being directed instead to Macedonia. Later, on his third journey, Paul spent nearly three years in Ephesus, with the result that 'all they which dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks.' From this base, the gospel spread throughout the province. Paul later passed through Asia on his return to Jerusalem, and Jews from Asia were among those who falsely accused him in the temple.
☩The Churches of Asia
Paul's letters mention 'the churches of Asia' sending greetings, and Revelation opens with greetings to the seven churches in Asia. These congregations represented both the strengths and weaknesses of first-century Christianity—from the faithful church at Philadelphia to the lukewarm church at Laodicea. The risen Christ walked among these lampstands, commending, correcting, and calling them to overcome.
Related Verses20 mentions
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Asia," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. I (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Asia," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. I (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).