What cities did Paul pass through on his second journey?
The second journey of the Apostle Paul, which took place around 51-52 AD, was a significant period in the spread of Christianity. During this journey, Paul traveled extensively, visiting numerous cities and regions to spread the Gospel. His journey was marked by a series of conversions, conflicts, and the establishment of several churches. Let’s explore the cities that Paul passed through during this transformative journey.
1. Antioch in Pisidia
Paul’s second journey began in Antioch in Pisidia, where he had initially been sent by the Holy Spirit. In this city, Paul and Barnabas preached the Gospel, which led to a significant number of conversions. However, they faced opposition from the Jews and were eventually expelled from the region.
2. Iconium
After leaving Antioch in Pisidia, Paul and Barnabas traveled to Iconium, where they continued their missionary work. The apostles faced opposition from both Jews and Gentiles, but they remained resilient and continued to spread the Gospel.
3. Lystra
Next, Paul and Barnabas arrived in Lystra, where they were warmly received by the Gentiles. Paul performed miracles, including healing a cripple and raising a young man from the dead. However, this success also attracted the attention of the Jews, who sought to stone Paul and Barnabas.
4. Derbe
Following their departure from Lystra, Paul and Barnabas traveled to Derbe, where they continued their missionary work. The apostles faced more opposition from the Jews, but they also encountered believers who had previously heard the Gospel from Paul and Barnabas.
5. Troas
Paul and Barnabas sailed to Troas, where they spent a week waiting for the opportunity to continue their journey. During this time, Paul had a vision that led him to Macedonia, marking the beginning of his third missionary journey.
6. Philippi
Paul’s third missionary journey took him to Philippi, a city in Macedonia. Here, he encountered Lydia, a seller of purple goods, who became the first recorded convert to Christianity in Europe. The apostles faced some opposition but continued to spread the Gospel.
7. Thessalonica
Paul and his companions traveled to Thessalonica, where they faced intense persecution from the Jews. Despite this, they established a church and continued their missionary work.
8. Berea
The apostles then moved to Berea, where they encountered a more receptive audience. The Bereans were known for their eagerness to hear the Word of God and examine the Scriptures, leading to a successful missionary effort.
9. Athens
Paul and Silas traveled to Athens, where they encountered a diverse group of people, including Stoics, Epicureans, and Jews. The apostles engaged in debates and discussions, leading to the conversion of some individuals.
10. Corinth
Paul’s second journey concluded in Corinth, where he spent nearly two years. During this time, he wrote the first letter to the Corinthians, addressing various issues within the church. Corinth was also the site of Paul’s third missionary journey.
In summary, Paul’s second journey took him through a series of cities and regions, where he faced challenges and successes in spreading the Gospel. His journey not only resulted in the establishment of numerous churches but also contributed to the growth of the early Christian community.
