Itinerary of the second missionary journey

Let’s review the itinerary of Paul’s second missionary journey: (1) From Antioch to Troas. (2) From Troas to Macedonia (Philippi, Thessalonica, Berea). (3) From Macedonia to Achaia (Athens, Corinth). (4) Paul now plans to travel from Corinth to Ephesus, Caesarea, Jerusalem and return to Antioch. Upon reaching Antioch, the second missionary journey will be complete.

Visiting a synagogue in Ephesus

“They came to Ephesus, and he left them there. Now he himself entered the synagogue and reasoned with the Jews.” (1) Paul’s group arrived in Ephesus. Ephesus was the capital of the province of Asia and boasted a massive port, serving as a critical link between Asia and Europe. The shipping route between Cenchrea and Ephesus was the busiest in the Aegean Sea. (2) Let’s learn about the city of Ephesus: (a) It was established as a commercial city around 1044 BC and became a Greek-style city after the 4th century BC (under Alexander the Great and his successors). (b) By the late 2nd century BC, it came under Roman control. (c) It flourished as a commercial hub and became the capital of the province of Asia, with an estimated population of 200,000-250,000. (d) Ephesus was tolerant toward Jews, attracting a significant Jewish population. (e) The city was also known for magic and occult practices. It housed one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Temple of Artemis, a massive structure measuring 217 ft (66 m) × 427 ft (130 m), four times the size of the Parthenon in Athens. Artemis was a fertility goddess depicted with multiple breasts. (f) Ephesus was a center of idolatry and prostitution in Asia. The local economy had flourished through Artemis worship. (3) At the beginning of his second missionary journey, Paul likely intended to go to Ephesus. However, the Spirit led him to Troas and then to Macedonia. At the end of the second missionary journey, Paul was finally able to visit Ephesus. However, this visit was brief stopover during his travels. (4) Priscilla and Aquila traveled with Paul but disembarked in Ephesus, where they stayed for several years. They would eventually return to Rome by AD 57 (ref. Rom. 16:3). (5) After parting ways with the couple, Paul entered the synagogue alone. He used the time before the ship’s departure for evangelism. Paul went into the synagogue and discussed the Messiah with the Jews. Let us learn from Paul’s attitude, making the most of every opportunity to share the gospel, even in brief moments of free time.