What is…
Antioch

This is the name of 2 biblical cities.

  1. Antioch on the river Orontes

    It is located about 16 miles from the Mediterranean Sea, and some 300 miles north of Jerusalem.

    It was the metropolis of Syria, and afterwards became the capital of the Roman province in Asia. It ranked 3rd, after Rome and Alexandria in importance, of the cities of the Roman empire. It was called the “first city of the East.”

    Christianity was introduced early into this city (Acts 11:19, 21, 24), and the name “Christian” was first applied here to its professors (Acts 11:26). It is intimately connected with the early history of the gospel (Acts 6:5; 11:19, 27,28,30; 12:25; 15:22-35; Galatians 2:11-12). It was the great central point from where missionaries to the Gentiles were sent forth.

    It was the birthplace of the famous Christian father Chrysostom, who died A.D. 407.

    Like Philippi, it was raised to the rank of a Roman colony. Such colonies were ruled by “praetors” (Acts 16:20-21).

    Modern Antakya (Antioch), Turkey—satellite view

    It bears the modern name of Antakya (Antakia), Hatay, Turkey. Most of the ancient ruins are still buried.

  2. Antioch of Pisidia

    located in Pisidia’s extreme north

    Ruins of Antioch of Psidia. Photo by Maderibeyza. CC BY-SA 3.0
    Ruins of Antioch of Pisidia

    This city was visited by Paul and Barnabas on the first missionary journey (Acts 13:14). Here they found a synagogue and many proselytes. They met with great success in preaching the gospel, but the Jews stirred up a violent opposition against them, and they were obliged to leave the place.

    On his return, Paul again visited Antioch for the purpose of confirming the disciples (Acts 14:21).

    Site of ancient Antioch of Pisidia, now in Turkey near Yalvac—satellite view
Article Version: February 13, 2019